Weighing System for Rapid Aerospace Component Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual non-destructive testing (NDT) in aerospace applications is time-consuming, costly, and poses health and safety risks, while automated systems require extensive programming for each component, leading to inefficiencies and increased training needs.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive testing machine with a cart system that allows for secure positioning and rapid exchange of components, combined with a weighing system capable of precise weight measurement and a computer-implemented validation process for automated processing and validation programs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual NDT inspection is used, then training and certification can be obtained, but the process becomes time-consuming, costly, and creates health and safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated NDT machine that uses sensors and computational algorithms to detect defects. The system substitutes human inspectors with automated detection equipment that can identify defects without human intervention, thereby reducing inspection time while maintaining or improving reliability through consistent automated measurement and analysis.
2Productivity
If automated NDT systems are used, then inspection speed increases, but extensive programming is required for each component
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal NDT machine platform that can inspect multiple different component types without requiring extensive reprogramming for each. The system uses a library of defect patterns and adaptive algorithms that can be applied across various component geometries and materials, allowing the same hardware platform to serve multiple inspection functions while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adjusts inspection parameters such as sensor positioning, scanning speed, and detection thresholds dynamically based on the specific component being inspected. Rather than requiring complete reprogramming for each component, the system modifies operational parameters adaptively, reducing the complexity of setup while maintaining high inspection throughput through parameter optimization.
3Measurement precision
If components are securely positioned during inspection, then measurement accuracy improves, but positioning and setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary positioning features such as pre-configured fixtures, guide rails, and automated alignment systems that prepare the component for inspection before the actual NDT process begins. These preliminary actions ensure that components are correctly positioned and secured in advance, enabling accurate defect detection without requiring time-consuming adjustments during the inspection process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-aligning mechanisms and automated positioning systems that automatically adjust and secure components without requiring manual intervention. The NDT machine itself performs the positioning and securing functions through integrated actuators and sensors, reducing setup time while ensuring measurement precision through consistent automated positioning.
4Productivity
If rapid component exchange is enabled, then testing capacity increases, but secure positioning during inspection becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the NDT system into modular components including interchangeable fixtures, segmented scanning systems, and modular support structures. This segmentation allows rapid exchange of components while maintaining secure positioning through standardized interfaces and quick-connect mechanisms that ensure reliable positioning stability even with frequent component changes.
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 solution reduces cycle times, enhances safety, and decreases programming requirements, enabling more efficient NDT operations and increased testing capacity while ensuring accurate and reliable component analysis and validation.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell mounted to the support, and a part platform suspended from the load cell to receive a part to be weighed, the load cell operable to generate thousands of weight values for the part per second
Data Source
AI summary
A weighing system includes a support, a load cell mounted to the support, and a part platform suspended from the load cell to receive a part to be weighed. The load cell is operable to generate thousands of weight values for the part per second over a period of less than twenty seconds. The load cell is operable to output a weight of the part by averaging the weight values over the period of less than twenty seconds. A method of weighing the part suspended from the load cell is also disclosed.