Ultrasonic Inspection Laser Pointer Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic inspection systems face challenges in visually locating defects within workpieces since ultrasonic sound waves are invisible to the naked eye, making it difficult to determine the exact location of internal defects relative to the workpiece surface.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates a laser pointer coaxial with the ultrasonic transducer, where the laser beam is directed along the same trajectory as the ultrasonic sound waves to visually mark the workpiece surface location of detected defects, allowing for precise surface marking of defect positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultrasonic sound waves are used for inspection, then internal defects can be detected, but the location of defects cannot be visually determined
Solution Approach 1:
A laser pointer is introduced as an intermediary device to bridge the gap between ultrasonic detection and visual location. The laser pointer receives control signals from the ultrasonic inspection system and projects a visible light beam to the defect location, serving as a mediator that translates invisible ultrasonic data into visible visual information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical ultrasonic wave system with an optical laser system for the specific function of visual indication. While ultrasonic waves remain the detection method, the laser light substitutes for the invisible sound waves to provide visual feedback, replacing the need for mechanical measurement and visual correlation.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a laser pointer is added to mark defect locations, then visual localization is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic inspection system is enhanced to serve multiple functions: it both detects defects using ultrasonic waves and controls the laser pointer to mark locations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated marking devices and integrates the laser control within the existing inspection system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system for the laser pointer is merged with the ultrasonic inspection system. The signal processing unit that analyzes ultrasonic reflections also controls the laser pointer positioning, combining two functions into one integrated system rather than operating them as separate independent devices.
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 accurate visual localization and marking of defects on the workpiece surface, facilitating easier identification and documentation of internal defects during ultrasonic inspections.
Implementation Method 1
the ultrasonic transducer may direct ultrasonic sound waves through the acoustic couplant and into the workpiece
Implementation Method 2
the laser beam is directed along the same trajectory as the ultrasonic sound waves
Data Source
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AI summary
A system is provided for inspecting a workpiece that includes a workpiece defect and a workpiece surface. The system includes a laser pointer connected to an ultrasonic inspection system. The ultrasonic inspection system includes an ultrasonic transducer that directs sound waves to the workpiece defect, where the sound waves contact the workpiece surface at a workpiece surface location. The laser pointer directs a laser beam against the workpiece surface to visually annunciate the workpiece surface location.