Automated NDT Calibration Using 3D Model Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
The calibration of non-destructive testing (NDT) instruments is a time-consuming process that requires the presence of a trained NDT inspector, making it inefficient and prone to human error, especially for untrained technicians.
Innovation Solution
An automated calibration method using three-dimensional (3-D) model data to determine and store calibration coordinates and structural data, allowing non-NDT personnel to perform basic inspections without the need for a trained inspector, reducing lead time and potential errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration by trained NDT inspector is used, then calibration accuracy is ensured, but calibration time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 3-D model data as a digital copy of the test object to automatically generate calibration parameters. Instead of manual measurement and calibration by inspectors, the system copies geometric and material information from the 3-D model to automatically configure calibration settings, eliminating time-consuming manual processes while maintaining accuracy through precise digital data representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration process performs self-service by automatically generating calibration parameters from 3-D model data without requiring trained NDT inspectors. The system independently completes calibration setup using algorithmic processing of model information, reducing both time and dependency on specialized personnel while maintaining calibration quality through automated consistency.
2Measurement precision
If manual calibration by trained NDT inspector is used, then calibration accuracy is ensured, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system copies all necessary calibration parameters directly from the 3-D model data, eliminating the need for operators to manually input or adjust complex calibration settings. This digital copying approach simplifies operation while maintaining accuracy, as the model contains pre-processed geometric and material information that automatically translates to calibration parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system performs self-configuration by automatically processing 3-D model data to generate calibration settings. This eliminates the need for trained inspectors to perform complex manual calibration procedures, making the process accessible to non-specialists while maintaining calibration quality through automated algorithms.
3Productivity
If automated calibration using 3-D model data is used, then calibration time and operational simplicity improve, but reliance on digital models and data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages existing 3-D model data as a digital copy of the test object, which already contains geometric and material information. By copying and processing this existing digital representation, the system avoids the complexity of creating new calibration data from scratch, improving efficiency while utilizing readily available digital assets.
Solution Approach 2:
The 3-D model data is prepared in advance with complete geometric and material information before the calibration process. This preliminary action of creating comprehensive digital models beforehand reduces the complexity of real-time data processing during calibration, as the system only needs to retrieve and apply pre-processed information rather than perform complex measurements and calculations during the calibration itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for auto-calibrating a non-destructive testing instrument. In accordance with some embodiments, the method comprises: (a) determining a first set of coordinates in a test object coordinate system of the test object, the first coordinates representing a target position on a surface of the test object; (b) storing a calibration file in a memory of the non-destructive testing instrument, the calibration file containing calibration data which is a function of structural data representing a three-dimensional structure of the test object in an area containing the target position; (c) calibrating the non-destructive testing instrument using the calibration data in the calibration file; and (d) interrogating the target position using the calibrated non-destructive testing instrument.