Universal NDT Cart with Self-Programming Visual Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual non-destructive testing (NDT) in aerospace applications is time-consuming, costly, and poses health and safety risks, while automated systems require extensive programming for each component, leading to inefficiencies and increased training requirements for inspectors.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive testing machine with a cart system that allows for secure positioning and rapid exchange of parts, combined with a weighing system capable of precise weight measurement and a computer-implemented validation process to streamline the testing and validation of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual NDT inspection is used, then flexibility in analyzing different components is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The cart system is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of components through interchangeable mounting fixtures. The standardized interface allows the same cart to securely hold different component geometries, enabling one system to perform multiple inspection functions without requiring component-specific programming
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses visual recognition technology to create a digital representation or 'copy' of the component geometry. This digital model is then used to automatically generate inspection parameters and positioning data, eliminating the need for manual programming while maintaining adaptability to different component types
2Productivity
If automated NDT systems are used, then productivity and safety are improved, but extensive programming is required for each component
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-programming through automated visual recognition. When a new component is placed on the cart, the system automatically captures images, generates a digital model, and configures inspection parameters without requiring external programming input. This self-service capability eliminates the need for extensive programming while maintaining automated inspection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary visual scanning and digital modeling of the component before the actual NDT inspection begins. This preliminary action automatically generates all necessary positioning and inspection data in advance, so that the subsequent inspection process requires no programming and can proceed immediately with full automation
3Measurement precision
If inspectors are extensively trained for automated systems, then inspection quality improves, but training time and recertification costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the need for human inspector expertise with automated visual recognition and digital modeling algorithms. These computational systems consistently generate accurate inspection parameters without requiring human training, thereby maintaining high inspection quality while eliminating the time loss associated with training and recertification
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces cycle times, enhances safety, and decreases programming and training needs by enabling efficient and precise testing and validation of components, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the NDT process.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell mounted to the support, and a part platform suspended from the load cell to receive a part to be weighed, the load cell operable to generate thousands of weight values for the part per second
Data Source
AI summary
A cart for supporting a part to be inspected in a non-destructive testing (NDT) machine. The cart includes a base with wheels, a first support extending upright from the base, a second support extending upright from the base, and mounting fixtures being removably attachable to the first and second supports and having mounting ends engageable with the part to support the part from the first support or the second support. The base is displaceable with the wheels to enter and exit the NDT machine. The cart is lockable upon being within the NDT machine to secure the cart in position.