Ultrasonic Inspection Apparatus for Variable Angle Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic inspection techniques face challenges in efficiently and accurately detecting abnormalities in variable radius joints due to manual adjustments required for changing joint geometries, leading to increased inspection time and potential user errors.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic inspection apparatus with a base, lower coupler block, and pivotable wings that adjust the position of an ultrasonic unit relative to the joint, allowing for automatic focal point adjustment based on changing web-to-flange angles, enabling continuous inspection without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual adjustment is used to maintain proper inspection distances in response to geometry changes, then inspection accuracy can be maintained, but inspection time increases and user error is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection apparatus automatically adjusts its focal length and inspection parameters in response to detected geometry changes without requiring manual intervention. The system self-corrects for variable radius and angle variations, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust settings while maintaining inspection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the geometry of the joint being inspected and uses this feedback to automatically adjust focal length and other inspection parameters. This closed-loop control ensures accurate inspection across varying geometries while eliminating manual adjustment steps.
2Reliability
If manual adjustment is required to maintain proper inspection distances, then inspection quality can be maintained, but user error is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs automatic focal length adjustment and geometry compensation, eliminating manual adjustment operations that could introduce user errors. The system independently maintains optimal inspection conditions across variable joint geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated system that uses sensors and actuators to adjust focal length and positioning. This substitution of manual operation with automated control eliminates user error while maintaining inspection quality.
3Device complexity
If focal length adjustment is delayed or premature in variable radius joints, then device complexity is reduced, but inspection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts focal length in real-time based on the detected radius and geometry of the joint being inspected. Rather than using a fixed or pre-set focal length, the apparatus continuously adapts its focal length to match the local geometry, ensuring accurate inspection across variable radius joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the focal length parameter dynamically in response to detected geometry variations. The system monitors joint radius and angle, then automatically adjusts focal length as a variable parameter to maintain optimal inspection conditions across different sections of the joint.
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
The apparatus enables efficient and accurate ultrasonic inspection of variable radius joints by automatically adjusting the focal point in response to changing geometries, reducing inspection time and user errors while maintaining consistent alignment.
Implementation Method 1
ultrasonic inspection techniques... emit an ultrasonic signal... detect a reflected ultrasonic signal
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for ultrasonic inspection. The apparatus comprises, in certain examples, a base, a lower coupler block slidably coupled to the base such that the base is translationally movable relative to the lower coupler block, and a pair of wings rotatably coupled to the lower coupler block at a wing pivot point and pivotable between a first angle and a second angle. In certain examples, the apparatus also includes a sensor carriage located within the base and slidably coupled to the base such that the sensor carriage is translationally movable relative to the base.