Part Evaluation Using System Natural Frequency Comparison

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current nondestructive testing methods for evaluating parts used in systems operated at steady-state frequencies lack effectiveness in accurately classifying parts based on natural and resonance frequencies, leading to potential defects being overlooked.

Innovation Solution

The method involves identifying and comparing the natural frequencies of a system with the resonance frequencies of a part-under-test, using sensors to acquire vibrational responses and setting natural frequency thresholds to classify the part as compliant or non-compliant, with additional refinements including resonance inspections and computer model updates.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional nondestructive testing methods are used to evaluate parts, then defects can be identified without damage to the part, but the methods lack effectiveness in accurately classifying parts based on natural and resonance frequencies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedefect identification accuracyVSAvoidfrequency classification precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies mechanical vibration by exciting the part under test with vibrational energy and measuring its resonant frequencies. The system uses vibrational response analysis to identify natural frequencies of the part and compare them with system natural frequencies, enabling accurate classification of the part's suitability for the system while maintaining nondestructive testing principles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the evaluation parameter from general defect detection to specific frequency-based classification. By measuring resonant frequencies and comparing them against system natural frequencies, the method transforms the evaluation criterion into a precise quantitative metric that directly assesses part-system compatibility, thereby improving both reliability and measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If natural frequency thresholds are set to classify parts as compliant or non-compliant, then accurate classification is achieved, but the complexity of the evaluation system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepart classification accuracyVSAvoidevaluation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes specific frequency threshold criteria for classifying parts as compliant or non-compliant. By defining clear cutoff values for resonant frequency comparisons, the system achieves precise automated classification without requiring complex subjective judgment, thereby improving measurement precision while keeping the evaluation process systematic and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If resonance frequencies are compared with system natural frequencies, then system compatibility is ensured, but the time required for evaluation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem compatibility assuranceVSAvoidevaluation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses mechanical vibration excitation to rapidly elicit resonant frequencies from the part. By applying vibrational energy and quickly measuring the frequency response, the system obtains the necessary data for compatibility assessment in a time-efficient manner while ensuring reliable system compatibility through accurate frequency comparison.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

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 accurate classification of parts, ensuring they resonate within specified frequency ranges, thereby identifying defects and ensuring system compatibility, improving the assessment of new and in-service parts.

Implementation Method 1

A first vibrational response of a part-under-test is acquired using at least one sensor, and a plurality of resonance frequencies of the part-under-test are identified in this first vibrational response

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 2

A plurality of natural frequencies associated with a system are identified, where these natural frequencies are generated by or exist during operation of the system at a first steady-state operational frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11175264B2Part evaluation based upon system natural frequency
Publication Date: 2021.11.16 VIBRANT CORP
  • US11175264B2 patent drawing
  • US11175264B2 patent drawing
  • US11175264B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A part evaluation tool is disclosed and which may be used to assess a part-under-test for use in a system. A plurality of natural frequencies for a system operated at a first steady-state operational are identified. A vibrational response of a part-under-test is acquired, and resonance frequencies within this vibrational response are identified. Resonance frequencies of the part-under-test are compared with the identified natural frequencies for purposes of classifying the part as compliant (e.g., suitable for use in the system) or non-compliant (e.g., not suitable for use in the system).