Non-destructive Analysis of Multiple Structural Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pulsed eddy current testing techniques are inadequate for quantitative analysis of multiple structural parameters, as they typically focus on specific features of the signal response, failing to accurately determine parameters like probe-to-material distance, material thickness, and flaw depth when multiple quantities vary simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the acquisition and transformation of transient time-based signals into frequency domain signals, followed by iterative adjustment of parameter values to maximize convergence between estimated and normalized test signals, allowing for simultaneous evaluation of multiple structural parameters such as thickness, feature extent, and lift-off variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-variable calibration techniques are used, then the analysis process is simple, but it cannot quantify multiple quantities that vary simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex signal analysis process into distinct functional components: signal acquisition, frequency domain transformation, parameter estimation, convergence evaluation, and iterative optimization. This segmentation allows multiple structural parameters to be analyzed systematically without overwhelming complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from time-domain signal analysis to frequency-domain analysis, adding a new dimension to the data representation. This dimensional transformation enables the simultaneous extraction of multiple structural parameters (thickness, lift-off, conductivity) that cannot be separated in the time domain alone
2Measurement precision
If specific features of PEC signal response are correlated to reference samples, then the analysis is straightforward, but quantitative evaluation of multiple structural parameters is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency domain representation serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables separation of different structural parameters, provides basis for iterative optimization, and allows convergence evaluation. This multi-functionality achieves high measurement precision for multiple parameters without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the estimated parameters are used to generate synthetic signals that are compared with actual measurements. The convergence between these signals provides feedback for iterative optimization, ensuring accurate quantitative evaluation of multiple structural parameters
3Loss of information
If the entire signal response is utilized through frequency domain transformation, then comprehensive parameter evaluation is enabled, but signal processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency domain transformation is performed as a preliminary action that prepares the signal for subsequent parameter extraction. By transforming the signal beforehand, the complex task of extracting multiple parameters becomes more manageable through systematic analysis of frequency components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a synthetic copy of the signal based on estimated parameters and compares it with the actual signal. This copying approach allows comprehensive utilization of signal information through convergence evaluation while managing complexity through iterative refinement rather than attempting simultaneous extraction of all parameters
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
This approach enables reliable and accurate evaluation of multiple structural parameters, improving the reliability and accuracy of non-destructive analysis by utilizing the entire signal response rather than focusing on specific features, and accounting for variations in lift-off.
Implementation Method 1
A coil producing a varying magnetic field can be positioned near the conductive component to induce eddy current in the material
Implementation Method 2
pulsed eddy current testing... induce eddy current in the material
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for non-destructive analysis of a structure. A probe acquires a transient time based reference signal and at least one test signal. The reference signal and test signals are transformed to the frequency domain. The frequency domain test signal can be normalized using the frequency domain reference signal. Parameters of interest are evaluated at each test location by iteratively determining estimated parameter values, generating an estimated frequency domain test signal using the estimated parameter values and determining the convergence between the estimated frequency domain test signal and the normalized frequency domain test signal. The parameters values are determined as the estimated parameter values resulting in a maximized convergence between the estimated signal and the normalized test signal. The parameter values can be used to visualize and model various features of the structure.