Ultrasonic inspective device for simultaneous pulse echo and through transmission inspection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic inspection methods require separate processes for pulse echo and through transmission inspections, which are time-consuming and impractical for large structures, and equipping devices with additional hardware complicates manual inspections and increases error risks.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic inspection device with a probe and reflector plate configuration that allows simultaneous pulse echo and through transmission inspections, using phased array transducers and a control unit to determine structural characteristics like porosity, voids, delaminations, and foreign materials, with an adjustable gap and fixed reflector plate for efficient data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate inspections (pulse echo and through transmission) are performed sequentially, then both inspection types can be completed, but the total inspection time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pulse echo and through transmission inspection capabilities into a single integrated device. The probe assembly includes both transmit and receive transducers that can perform both inspection types simultaneously on the same structure, eliminating the need for sequential inspections and reducing total inspection time while maintaining complete inspection coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection device is designed with multi-functional capability to perform both pulse echo and through transmission inspections using a single probe assembly. The system can switch between or simultaneously execute both inspection modes, making the device universal and eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment for each inspection type
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional hardware (additional ultrasonic arrays and cables) is added to perform multiple inspections, then multiple inspection types can be performed, but the device complexity and manipulation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate ultrasonic arrays into a single integrated probe assembly. The probe contains both transmit and receive transducers in one unit, eliminating the need for additional separate arrays and associated cables, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to perform multiple inspection types
Solution Approach 2:
The single probe assembly is designed with universal functionality to perform both pulse echo and through transmission inspections. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional specialized hardware, reducing the overall complexity of the inspection system while maintaining adaptability to perform multiple inspection types
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional arrays are added to the inspection device, then multiple inspection types can be performed, but the risk of improper inspection and errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the inspection functions into a single integrated probe assembly where transmit and receive transducers are precisely positioned relative to each other. This integration ensures proper alignment and spacing, eliminating the risks associated with manually positioning multiple separate arrays and reducing the potential for inspection errors
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 rapid and accurate simultaneous inspection of structures, reducing inspection time and minimizing errors by integrating both inspection types into a single device, suitable for both small and large structures.
Implementation Method 1
The probe is configured to receive a first portion of the ultrasonic signals that are reflected off interfaces of the structure
Implementation Method 2
a second portion of the ultrasonic signals that pass through the structure and are reflected off the reflector plate
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic inspection device for inspection of a structure. The device includes a body with a first side and a second side that are on opposing sides of a gap. The gap is sized to receive the structure. A probe is attached to the first side and transmits ultrasonic signals at the structure. A reflector plate is attached to the second side and is fixed relative to the probe and reflects the signals that pass through the structure. The probe is configured to detect the signals that reflect off the structure and to detect the signals that pass through the structure and reflect off the reflector plate. The received signals provide for pulse echo and through transmission inspection of the structure.