Vacuum Box Non-Destructive Test Apparatus for Inaccessible Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional non-destructive test methods are inadequate for detecting defects in structures located in inaccessible areas, such as underwater or radioactive environments, where visual inspection is challenging and risky.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive test apparatus comprising a support frame with a vertical guide rail, a vacuum box, a hoist, a fastening unit, a vacuum pump, a defect detecting unit, and a control unit, which creates a vacuum to detect structural defects while allowing for remote operation and positioning, including a drain pump for underwater use and a rotating unit for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional non-destructive test methods (radiographic tests, ultrasonic tests) are used, then defects can be detected in dry conditions, but these methods cannot be applied to structures under water or in inaccessible locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vacuum box as an intermediary device that can be sealed against the structure surface and evacuated to create a vacuum environment. This vacuum box serves as a mediator between the testing system and the structure, allowing vacuum measurement to detect defects without requiring direct worker access to hazardous or underwater locations. The vacuum box can be remotely positioned and operated.
2Adaptability or versatility
If divers conduct visual inspection with naked eye, then access to underwater structures is possible, but fine defects are very difficult to detect and worker access is highly restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical visual inspection method (divers using naked eye or cameras) with a vacuum-based detection system. Instead of relying on human vision or optical systems that require direct contact, the invention uses vacuum pressure measurement to detect defects. The vacuum pump creates negative pressure, and any defect causes vacuum leakage that can be measured by sensors, providing superior detection precision without requiring worker presence in hazardous environments.
3Ease of operation
If workers directly access radioactive contaminated areas or underwater locations, then testing can be conducted, but worker safety is compromised and access is very restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum box acts as a remote intermediary that can be positioned against the structure in hazardous environments (underwater or radioactive areas) without requiring worker presence. The system allows testing to be conducted from a safe distance, with the vacuum box serving as the interface between the hazardous environment and the safe operational area where equipment and operators remain.
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 safe and efficient detection of structural defects in hard-to-reach locations, ensuring the integrity of structures by providing a reliable and accessible testing method for both dry and submerged, or hazardous environments.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum pump to create a vacuum in the vacuum box
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a non-destructive test apparatus which can be applied not only to a structure in dry conditions but also to a structure constructed under water or in a location to which it is difficult for a worker to gain access. The non-destructive test apparatus includes a support frame which is disposed adjacent to the target structure and has a vertical guide rail, and a vacuum box which moves upwards or downwards along the guide rail of the support frame. The vacuum box is attached to the target structure and creates a vacuum therein. The non-destructive test apparatus further includes a hoist which is provided on the upper end of the support frame to move the vacuum box upwards or downwards, a fastening unit which fastens the support frame and the vacuum box to the target structure, and a vacuum pump which creates a vacuum in the vacuum box. The non-destructive test apparatus further includes a defect detecting unit which measures a strength of vacuum in the vacuum box to determine whether the target structure is defective, and a control unit which controls the elements.