Thread Inspection Tool for Accurate Pullout Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring thread pullout distances on threaded tubular members, especially internal threads, are inaccurate and prone to errors due to limited access and line-of-sight issues, leading to incorrect labeling of thread quality.
Innovation Solution
A thread inspection tool with a movable probe and an indicator that simultaneously determines the pullout starting location and measures the distance from a selected reference point, using a combination of probes and a reference member to accurately evaluate thread depth and pullout dimensions on both pin and box ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used to measure thread pullout distances, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision is poor due to limited access and line-of-sight issues
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection tool is designed with nested components where the probe assembly can be inserted within the frame structure, allowing the measurement mechanism to access internal threads while maintaining structural support. The reference member is integrated within the frame at a predetermined distance, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides accurate measurement capability without excessive external complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual mechanical measurement methods with a structured probe-reference member system that uses controlled mechanical contact and predetermined geometric relationships. This substitution eliminates the need for operator judgment and line-of-sight alignment while maintaining mechanical simplicity through the use of rigid frame structures and fixed-distance reference members.
2Reliability
If manual inspection methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of thread quality evaluation is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The reference member is pre-positioned at a predetermined distance from the probe, establishing a known geometric relationship before measurement begins. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for real-time calculation or adjustment during inspection, ensuring consistent and reliable measurements. The frame structure is designed in advance with the reference member fixed at the correct distance to match specific thread pullout requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference member creates a standardized reference configuration that can be replicated across multiple inspections. By fixing the reference member at a predetermined distance from the probe, the system establishes a consistent measurement baseline that can be copied and reused for evaluating multiple threaded members, ensuring uniformity and reliability in quality assessment.
3Measurement precision
If conventional measurement tools are used, then the ease of operation is high, but the measurement precision and consistency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection tool merges the probe, reference member, and frame into a single integrated assembly. This combination ensures that the distance between the probe and reference member remains constantly predetermined during operation, eliminating the need for separate measurement steps or complex calculations. The merged structure provides precise measurement capability while maintaining ease of operation through its unified, self-contained design.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for evaluating a thread depth includes a frame having an elongate portion extending in a first direction; a first contact member coupled to the frame and reciprocable in a second direction between a baseline height and a retracted height, the baseline height being greater than the retracted height. An output device provides an output in response to the height of the first contact member. A reference member is coupled to the frame at a first distance D1 from the first contact member as measured in the first direction; and a second contact member coupled to the frame is disposed at a second distance D2 from the first contact member as measured in the first direction, such that D1 is greater than D2.