Magnetically Coupled UT-CP Probe for Recoil-Stable ROV Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional probe systems for underwater ultrasonic thickness measurement and cathodic protection voltage readings are cumbersome, requiring separate probes and robotic arms, leading to time-consuming and costly measurement processes, especially in shallow or inaccessible areas, and are susceptible to recoil forces that disrupt measurement accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically coupled integrated probe system that simultaneously performs both cathodic protection voltage readings and ultrasonic thickness measurements using a single robotic arm, featuring a probe carrier with magnetic components and a flexible membrane to adhere to the inspection surface, reducing the need for multiple probes and minimizing recoil effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate probes and robotic arms are used for ultrasonic thickness measurement and cathodic protection voltage readings, then measurement functions are provided, but measurement time increases and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines ultrasonic thickness measurement and cathodic protection voltage reading functions into a single integrated probe system. The probe includes both an ultrasonic transducer and a reference electrode in one unit, allowing simultaneous or sequential measurements without probe exchange. This merging eliminates the time required to switch between separate probes and reduces operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe is designed to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously. The single probe can conduct both ultrasonic thickness measurements and cathodic protection voltage readings, making it a universal tool that replaces multiple specialized probes. This multi-functionality is achieved by integrating the ultrasonic transducer and reference electrode into one cohesive device that can operate in various measurement modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate probes and robotic arms are used for ultrasonic thickness measurement and cathodic protection voltage readings, then measurement functions are provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single integrated probe, reducing the number of separate devices and robotic arms required. By combining the ultrasonic transducer and reference electrode into one probe unit, the system complexity is reduced while maintaining all necessary measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe serves as a universal measurement device that can perform both ultrasonic thickness measurements and cathodic protection voltage readings. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized probes and robotic arms, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing operational complexity.
3Measurement precision
If conventional probe systems contact the underwater inspection surface, then measurements are taken, but recoil force pushes the probe away from the surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic adhesion forces to counterbalance the recoil force generated during measurement. The probe incorporates magnetic components that create a holding force against the ferromagnetic inspection surface, effectively counteracting the recoil force that would otherwise push the probe away. This allows the probe to maintain stable contact with the surface throughout the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful recoil force into a beneficial effect by utilizing magnetic attraction. The magnetic force not only counteracts the recoil but also ensures firm and stable contact between the probe and the inspection surface, improving measurement reliability. The recoil force that would normally disrupt measurement is transformed into a mechanism that enhances probe-surface contact through magnetic adhesion.
4Measurement precision
If ROV thrusters are operated to maintain probe orientation against recoil force, then probe stability is maintained, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetic adhesion force to counterbalance the recoil force, eliminating the need for continuous ROV thruster operation. The magnetic holding force maintains probe stability and orientation against the inspection surface without requiring active compensation through thruster adjustments, thereby saving time and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic adhesion mechanism provides self-service stabilization for the probe. Instead of requiring external intervention through ROV thruster operation to maintain probe orientation, the magnetic force automatically counteracts recoil and maintains stable contact. This self-stabilizing mechanism eliminates the time-consuming process of continuous thruster adjustment and reorientation.
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 simultaneous and accurate measurements of cathodic protection voltage and ultrasonic thickness on underwater structures with reduced measurement time, increased accessibility for smaller ROVs, and eliminates the need for continuous thruster operation to maintain probe orientation.
Implementation Method 1
the integrated probe systems include one or more magnets embedded within the probe carrier
Implementation Method 2
a flux concentrator are embedded within the probe carrier, in which the flux concentrator is supported by the one or more magnets
Implementation Method 3
a measuring device emit ultrasonic waves at the surface of the structure and to measure the time it takes for the ultrasonic wave to return
Implementation Method 4
a flexible membrane seated in the cavity of the probe carrier... the ultrasonic probe being partially disposed within the sleeve housing and extending through the probe carrier to be adjacent to the flexible membrane
Data Source
AI summary
This application discloses magnetically coupled integrated probes and probe systems, attachable to the robotic arms of a remotely operated vehicle to perform both cathodic protection (CP) voltage measurements and ultrasonic testing (UT) thickness measurements at an underwater surface. The integrated probe system can include a spring for coupling to an ROV end effector. An ultrasonic probe is disposed within and extends from the sleeve housing. A magnetic carrier, flux concentrator, and gimbal surround a portion of the ultrasonic probe, and one or more electrically conductive legs extend from the front surface of the gimbal to function as a CP probe. The legs are arranged about the ultrasonic probe, which has a flexible membrane exposed at the front surface of the gimbal, such that during inspection, at least one leg contacts the surface and the ultrasonic probe is sufficiently proximate to provide substantially simultaneous CP and UT measurements.