Pipe Cuff Ultrasound Scanning for Inner Surface Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound inspection methods for pipes struggle to accurately model the inner surface of pipes using scanning apparatus positioned on the outer surface, and there is a need for improved techniques to detect defects and measure wall thickness efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical cuff is used to fit around a pipe, with a rotating ultrasound transceiver array that performs multiple transmit-receive cycles using the Full Matrix Capture data acquisition technique, and the data is post-processed to model both the inner and outer pipe surfaces using a two-step algorithm involving intensity map construction and filtering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a scanning apparatus is positioned on the outer surface of the pipe, then the inspection can be performed from one side only, but it becomes difficult to accurately model the inner surface of the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from direct single-side scanning to a multi-dimensional approach by rotating the transducer array around the pipe circumference and using full matrix capture to collect data from multiple angles, enabling accurate inner surface modeling despite outer surface positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual model (copy) of the inner pipe surface by processing ultrasound data collected from the outer surface through full matrix capture and advanced algorithms, allowing accurate representation of the inner surface without direct physical access
2Device complexity
If traditional ultrasound scanning methods are used, then the equipment is simpler, but the ability to detect defects and measure wall thickness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ultrasound inspection into multiple transmit-receive cycles with a rotating array, collecting data from multiple angles and processing it through full matrix capture to achieve comprehensive defect detection and precise wall thickness measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple ultrasound transducers into an array configuration, integrating their signals through full matrix capture processing to achieve superior defect detection capability compared to individual transducers
3Loss of information
If the pipe is scanned from the inside, then 3D information about the inner surface can be obtained, but the scanning apparatus cannot be positioned on the outer surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the inner surface by processing ultrasound data collected from the outer surface through full matrix capture and advanced reconstruction algorithms, achieving accurate 3D inner surface information without internal access
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 method allows for precise modeling of both inner and outer pipe surfaces, enabling effective detection of defects and variations in pipe thickness, and provides detailed structural information.
Implementation Method 1
A mechanical cuff is used to fit around a pipe, with a rotating ultrasound transceiver array that performs multiple transmit-receive cycles
Implementation Method 2
The cuff receives a stream of water via a tube and fills the volume between the structure and the pipe surface with water while in operation in order to facilitate ultrasound scanning
Data Source
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AI summary
A device and method for performing ultrasound scanning of a substantially cylindrical object, the device comprising a cuff adapted to fit around a circumference of the object, a carrier mounted slidably on the cuff and adapted to traverse the circumference of the object, an ultrasound probe mounted on the carrier and positioned to scan the circumference of the object as the carrier traverses the circumference of the object, a carrier motor mounted on the cuff or the carrier and used to drive the movement of the carrier about the circumference of the object, and one or more data connections providing control information for the carrier motor and the ultrasound probe and receiving scanning data from the ultrasound probe.