Remote Ultrasonic Mapping for Time-Based Structural Defect Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ultrasonic non-destructive testing methods require operator intervention on site, posing safety risks and inefficiencies in mapping structural defects in real-time.

Innovation Solution

A remote-controlled ultrasonic non-destructive testing system using a multi-element ultrasonic sensor connected via a network, allowing real-time mapping and monitoring of structural defects from a safe distance, enabling efficient and continuous defect tracking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If operator intervention on site is used for ultrasonic testing, then real-time measurement and analysis can be performed, but operator safety is compromised when mapping defect portions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator safetyVSAvoidon-site measurement capability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A remote server acts as an intermediary between the ultrasonic testing device and the operator. The device transmits measurement data via network to the server, which performs defect mapping and analysis remotely. This eliminates the need for operator presence at the defect site while maintaining full measurement and analysis capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical presence of the operator at the measurement site with an electronic/network-based system. The ultrasonic device communicates measurement data through network transmission to a remote server, substituting physical operator intervention with automated remote processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Loss of information

If portable ultrasonic device with real-time display is used, then on-site analysis is enabled, but operator exposure to defective structures is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereal-time defect informationVSAvoidsafety risk from defect exposure

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The remote server serves as an intermediary that receives measurement data from the ultrasonic device via network transmission. It performs real-time defect mapping and analysis, delivering results to operators without requiring their physical presence at the defective structure site.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a digital representation (mapping) of the physical defect through ultrasonic measurement data. This digital copy allows operators to analyze defect characteristics remotely, eliminating the need to physically examine or be near the actual defective structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If remote network control is implemented, then operator safety is improved, but measurement preparation time may increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator safetyVSAvoidmeasurement preparation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The server is pre-configured with defect mapping algorithms and analysis tools before measurements begin. Measurement protocols and parameters can be pre-set on the ultrasonic device, allowing rapid initiation of testing without time-consuming on-site setup or preparation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Complex defect mapping and analysis operations that would require extensive operator preparation and expertise are replaced by automated server-side processing. The network-based system handles data processing remotely, eliminating time-consuming manual preparation steps at the measurement site.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables safe, efficient, and continuous monitoring of structural defects without operator exposure, facilitating timely detection of defect changes and ensuring structural integrity.

Implementation Method 1

each ultrasonic non-destructive testing device comprising a multi-element ultrasonic sensor disposed on a surface of the portion of the structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltrasonic wave generation and detection: Ultrasound

Data Source

PatentUS12405250B2Method for monitoring the change over time of a defect in a structure

Publication Date: 2025.09.02 LAIR LIQUIDE SA POUR LETUDE & LEXPLOITATION DES PROCEDES GEORGES CLAUDE

AI summary

A method of monitoring a portion of an equipment under pressure implementing a control station to control an ultrasonic non-destructive testing device through a remote network, includes: the control station sends a first measurement request to the non-destructive testing device; the control station receives a first plurality of measurement data from the non-destructive testing device, constructs a first mapping of the portion of the structure from the data; sends a second measurement request to the non-destructive testing device, receives a second plurality of measurement data from the non-destructive testing device, constructs a second mapping of the portion of the structure, from the second plurality of measurement data, and compares the first mapping and the second mapping.