Probe Driver Control for Video Borescope Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-destructive testing (NDT) devices lack effective control mechanisms for accurately positioning sensors during inspections, leading to inconsistencies and longer training times for operators.
Innovation Solution
A probe driver system that uses mobile computing devices and cloud computing to control the positioning of a video borescope's conduit section through touch-based gestures, joysticks, and data processors, enabling precise orientation and movement of the sensor within assets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional control mechanisms are used for NDT devices, then device simplicity is maintained, but positioning accuracy and inspection consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The probe driver is designed to interface with multiple types of NDT devices (video borescopes, ultrasonic probes, etc.) through a universal control mechanism. The system can control different sensor types and conduit configurations through the same driver interface, eliminating the need for device-specific control systems while maintaining high positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The probe driver acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the NDT sensor. It provides precision positioning control through a mechanical drive mechanism while interfacing with various sensor types, thereby improving positioning accuracy without requiring direct complex control of each individual sensor device
2Reliability
If manual control methods are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but inspection consistency and precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the probe driver receives control signals from the operator and executes precise positioning movements. The system can provide feedback on conduit position and sensor orientation, enabling operators to achieve consistent inspection results through intuitive control while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The probe driver employs dynamic control capabilities allowing it to respond to operator inputs with precise, adjustable movements. The system can adapt its control characteristics to match different inspection scenarios and operator preferences, maintaining ease of operation while improving inspection consistency through programmable control algorithms
3Loss of time
If basic positioning control is provided, then device complexity is kept low, but training time and operational skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe driver incorporates self-adjusting and self-positioning capabilities that reduce the skill level required for operation. The system can automatically compensate for positioning errors and guide the conduit to optimal inspection positions, thereby reducing training time while the controlled complexity is managed through automated functions
Data Source
AI summary
A non-destructive testing system can include a mobile computing device and a video borescope coupled to the mobile computing device via a cloud computing environment. The system can further include a probe driver coupled to the mobile computing device and to the video borescope via the cloud computing environment. The probe driver can attach to a conduit section. The probe driver can also include a positioning element configured to position the conduit section and a data processor. The data processor can be configured to receive a signal indicative of a position of the conduit section and to control one or more operations of the probe driver configured to operate the positioning element to orient the conduit section in the position.