Ultrasonic Detector Handle Probe Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing handheld ultrasonic detectors with interchangeable probes require a separate carrying case, making them inconvenient for use in the field when changing probes, as they need to be set down to access the case for probe changes.

Innovation Solution

A compact and portable ultrasonic detector design with a housing that includes a socket for interchangeable probes and a storage chamber within the handle for probe storage, allowing for easy access and change without needing a separate carrying case, along with additional features like a battery compartment and data port.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate carrying case is used to store probes, then probes can be stored securely, but the operative must set down the device to access the case for probe changes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe storage securityVSAvoidprobe change convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The probe storage chamber is integrated into the handle of the ultrasonic detector, merging the storage function with the device body. This eliminates the need for a separate carrying case and allows the operative to access probes directly from the handle without setting down the device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The probe storage chamber is nested within the handle structure of the detector. The handle itself serves as the storage container, with the chamber formed by internal walls and a removable cover, allowing compact integration of storage functionality within the existing device geometry.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Quantity of substance

If a separate carrying case is used, then all probes can be stored, but the device becomes less compact and portable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe storage capacityVSAvoiddevice portability

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The storage function is merged into the handle structure, eliminating the need for a separate carrying case. This integration maintains compactness while providing sufficient storage space for multiple probes, as the handle's internal volume is utilized for the probe storage chamber.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If probes are stored in the handle, then easy access is achieved, but the handle structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe access easeVSAvoidhandle structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is segmented into functional zones: a probe storage chamber formed by internal walls, a removable cover for access, and the gripping portion. This segmentation allows the storage function to be integrated without requiring complete structural redesign of the handle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The handle cover is designed to be removable, providing dynamic access to the storage chamber. The cover can be removed when probe changes are needed and closed when probes are stored, allowing easy access while maintaining a simple closed structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 convenient and efficient field use by allowing probe changes without needing to set down the device, protecting probes from damage and providing a compact, portable solution for detecting ultrasonic leaks and mechanical issues.

Implementation Method 1

it is necessary for the sound to be fed to a transducer that will convert it to frequencies that are audible to the human operative

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltrasonic sound conversion: Sound

Implementation Method 2

A contact probe is typically a solid rod of material that transmits the ultrasonic frequencies of interest

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltrasonic transmission: Ultrasonic Vibration

Implementation Method 3

An air probe is typically a tube that guides the sound in air to the transducer, while excluding extraneous noises

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic wave guidance: Sound

Data Source

PatentUS10180371B2Ultrasonic detector with storable probes

Publication Date: 2019.01.15 SPECTRONICS CORP

AI summary

An ultrasonic detector has a housing containing a transducer, a battery or other power supply, and any other necessary electronics. At a front end of the housing is a socket into which one of a plurality of interchangeable probes can be inserted. At the rear end of the housing, there is a handle by which an operative can hold the detector in use. On the inside of the housing, extending at least partially into the handle, is an elongate chamber within which at least one probe can be stored. A cover of the handle closes a rear end of the probe storage chamber and can be removed to expose a portion of the probe storage chamber and allow a probe to be inserted or removed.