Ultrasonic Probe Tapered Chamber Edge Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic probes face challenges in maintaining effective coupling with structures, especially at edges, due to fluid displacement, leading to slow inspection speeds and limited capability for rough surfaces, as well as acoustic mismatches affecting frequency accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An inspection apparatus with a housing system that includes a tapered chamber to maintain a column of couplant between the probe and the structure, ensuring consistent coupling and signal transmission, even when moving over edges, using a bubbled couplant flow system to reduce turbulence and maintain contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional probes are moved over edges of structures, then edge inspection capability is achieved, but coupling fluid flows over the edge leaving no coupling fluid adjacent to the probe
Solution Approach 1:
A delay line made of material with acoustic impedance different from water is introduced as an intermediary between the probe and the structure. The delay line acts as a mediator that maintains acoustic coupling while allowing the probe to traverse edges, preventing coupling fluid from flowing over the edge and ensuring continuous reliable inspection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a spatial dimension by positioning the delay line at a specific distance (0.020" to 0.030") from the structure surface and creating water passageways through the delay line. This dimensional arrangement allows coupling fluid to be retained in the gap between the delay line and structure while the probe moves over edges.
2Adaptability or versatility
If delay line is used to provide edge inspecting capability, then edge inspection is enabled, but inspection speeds are slow
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses hydraulic principles by introducing a bubbled couplant flow system that delivers coupling fluid through the delay line to the inspection interface. This continuous fluid delivery mechanism maintains optimal coupling conditions during probe movement, enabling faster inspection speeds while preserving edge inspection capability.
3Reliability
If delay line with water passageways is used, then coupling fluid is maintained under delay line, but only smooth surfaces may be properly inspected
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the coupling system by using a bubbled couplant flow that can adapt to surface irregularities. The bubbled flow pattern and adjustable flow rate allow the coupling fluid to conform to both smooth and rough surfaces, expanding the range of inspectable surface types while maintaining reliable coupling.
4Adaptability or versatility
If delay line is used for edge inspection, then edge capability is provided, but acoustic mismatch alters inspection frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a bubbled couplant flow system that provides continuous coupling fluid delivery through the delay line, creating a feedback mechanism that maintains optimal acoustic coupling conditions. This active fluid management compensates for acoustic impedance mismatches and maintains accurate inspection frequencies during edge traversal.
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 solution enables reliable, expedient, and accurate evaluation of structure characteristics, including edges, with improved inspection speed and surface adaptability, while minimizing signal interference and maintaining frequency accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The surface tension of the coupling fluid is used to keep coupling fluid under the delay line as the probe traverses over the edge of the part surface
Implementation Method 2
The ultrasonic signals more easily transfer from the transducer to the structure by way of the couplant disposed between the probe and the structure
Implementation Method 3
An ultrasonic probe may be used to examine structures by transmitting ultrasonic signals to the structure and measuring a reflected signal returned by the structure to the probe
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus including a linear array transducer coupled to an upper housing of the apparatus and positioned above a tapered chamber. The tapered chamber configured to maintain a column of couplant between the linear array transducer and a structure to be inspected as the linear array transducer is positioned over an edge of the structure.