GLEICHZEITIGES BESTIMMEN VON MEHRPHASIGEN DURCHFLUSSMENGEN UND KONZENTRATIONEN

SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINING OF POLYPHASE FLOW RATES AND CONCENTRATIONS

GLEICHZEITIGES BESTIMMEN VON MEHRPHASIGEN DURCHFLUSSMENGEN UND KONZENTRATIONEN

Simultaneous determination of multiphase flowrates and concentrations

Simultaneous determination of multiphase flowrates and concentrations

SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION OF VOLUMES AND CONCENTRATIONS MULTIFASICAS

Simultaneous determination of multiphase flowrates and concentrations

The present invention relates to a method and a device for measuring volume flow rates of liquid phase components and gas and determination their volume concentrations in a multiphase mixture along a pipeline. Measurements are executed with an ultrasonic system which includes a set of local acoustic transducers arranged in the interior of the pipeline. Each pair of an emitter and a receiver of the transducer forms a sampling volume of a medium being under control. Volume concentrations of mixture components are determined by timing of passage of acoustic pulses through the sampling volume of the medium. Volume flow rates of the mixture components are calculated by measuring phase velocities and volume concentrations in two pipeline divisions with different cross-section areas located in series at a distance one from the other in flow direction.

Simultaneous determination of multiphase flowrates and concentrations

The present invention relates to a method and a device for measuring volume flow rates of liquid phase components and gas and determination their volume concentrations in a multiphase mixture along a pipeline. Measurements are executed with an ultrasonic system which includes a set of local acoustic transducers arranged in the interior of the pipeline. Each pair of an emitter and a receiver of the transducer forms a sampling volume of a medium being under control. Volume concentrations of mixture components are determined by timing of passage of acoustic pulses through the sampling volume of the medium. Volume flow rates of the mixture components are calculated by measuring phase velocities and volume concentrations in two pipeline divisions with different cross-section areas located in series at a distance one from the other in flow direction.

Applications for real-time mass ratio, mass flow and particle size measurement of particle laden flows

Techniques are provided for monitoring particle laden flows in a pipe, that include receiving signalling containing information about a parameter related to a particle laden flow in a pipe, the parameter including either (a) a sound level propagating through the particle laden flow in the pipe, or (b) a static pressure due to an acceleration of the particle laden flow in the pipe; and determining a measurement of a particle size and either a mass flow rate, or a particle-to-air mass ratio, or both the mass flow rate and the particle-to-air mass ratio, associated with the particle laden flow, based at least partly on a change in the parameter.

Sound-Velocity Dewatering System

A method and apparatus for an improved dewatering tank system that allows for safely controlling a water stream exiting the dewatering tank system. The apparatus can include a sound velocity detector, a control system, and a control element. The sound velocity detector can include a transducer, a detector, and a transmitter. The control system can include a computer and a program product. The apparatus can optionally include a dewatering tank, a drain line, and a controllable valve. The apparatus allows for transmitting sound energy through the water stream flowing in the drain lined that is connected to the dewatering tank, calculating the velocity of the sound energy as the sound energy travels through the water stream, monitoring the velocity of the sound energy for a period of time, and controlling the position of the controllable valve depending on the calculated velocity of the sound energy.

Use of gas void fraction measurement is the closed loop control of a fermentation process

A technique related to a fermentation process; where a signal processor receives a signal containing information about an amount of entrained air in a mixture forming part of a fermentation process in a tank; and determines a level of foam in the tank based at least partly on the amount of entrained air in the mixture. The signal processor may also provide a control signal for controlling an amount of defoamer (or antiforming agent) added to the mixture in the tank so as to control the production of foam within the tank by controlling the amount of defoamer added to the mixture in the tank.

Method for measuring the viscoelastic properties of biological tissue employing an ultrasonic transducer

The present invention relates to a Method of measuring the viscoelastic properties of biological tissues employing an ultrasonic transducer equipped with elements converting the ultrasonic waves reflected by these biological tissues into electrical signals, different elements being grouped to form sub-apertures such that the acquisition of electrical signals from the elements of the same sub-aperture is carried out simultaneously, each of these sub-apertures being intercepted by an ultrasonic wave propagation axis at an acoustic center (Ca). In conformance with the invention, such a method is characterized in that one and the same element belongs to at least two different sub-apertures and in that an acoustic center is surrounded by at least three other unaligned acoustic centers.

Self-exciting, self-sensing piezoelectric cantilever sensor for detection of airborne analytes directly in air

A method for detection of airborne biological agent using a piezoelectric cantilever sensor that includes a piezoelectric layer and a non-piezoelectric layer. A recognition entity is placed on one or both of the two layers. The antibody that recognizes and binds to the airborne species may be chemically immobilized on the cantilever sensor surface. In one embodiment, the cantilever sensor is attached to a base at only one end. In another embodiment, the sensor includes first and second bases and at least one of the piezoelectric layer and the non-piezoelectric layer is affixed to each of the first and second bases to form a piezoelectric cantilever beam sensor. In this embodiment, resonance is measured via stress on the piezoelectric layer and it has been demonstrated that such sensors are robust and exhibit excellent sensing characteristics in gaseous media with sufficient sensitivity to detect airborne species at relatively low concentrations.

Multifunction sensor system and method for supervising room conditions

The invention refers to a multifunction sensor system and a corresponding method for supervising room conditions, comprising a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an ultrasonic transducer for emitting ultrasonic waves and being positioned in a fixed distance to a reflecting fixed reflective surface. For calculating the CO 2 concentration in the supervised room, the time of flight of ultrasonic waves between the transducer and the fixed reflective surface is measured, and the CO 2 concentration is calculated from the output values of the temperature sensor, the humidity sensor and the measured time of flight.

Method for determining and/or monitoring at least one physical, process variable of a medium

A method for determining and/or monitoring at least one physical, process variable of a medium with an oscillatable unit, wherein the oscillatable unit is excited by means of a frequency search sweep within a predetermined frequency band in the working range of the oscillatable unit in the form of transmitted signals successively to oscillate with discrete exciter frequencies wherein the corresponding oscillations of the oscillatable unit are received in the form of received signals, wherein, via the frequency search sweep, the exciter frequency is ascertained, in the case of which the oscillatable unit oscillates with an oscillation frequency, which has a predetermined phase shift between the transmitted signal and the received signal. The transmitting/receiving unit excites the oscillatable unit to oscillate with the ascertained oscillation frequency. The selected points in time depend on the predetermined phase shift between transmitted signal and received signal and that the voltage values sampled at the discrete exciter frequencies of the received signal are evaluated with reference to their amplitude.

Apparatus And Method For Non-Intrusive Assessment Of Gas In Packages

A method and apparatus are disclosed for assessment of a sealed package. Light is emitted from a narrow-band laser source towards said package from outside of said package. An absorption signal of said light scattered in said package is measured, wherein said absorption is caused by said at least one gas when said light is scattered and travels in said sealed package. Measuring is made outside of said package, whereby said assessment is non-intrusive with regard to said package. It is determined if a deviation exists from a predetermined, expected gas composition and/or concentration of said at least one gas within said sealed package based on said measured absorption signal. Thus sealing of said package for said gas is detected.

Nondestructive Test For Flexible Composites

A method for testing internal differences in reinforced flexible composites including placing a flexible composite on a rigid support structure, tapping the composite with a tapper of predetermined mass, determining a value representative of the impact duration of the tap and/or computing a value representative of the local stiffness of the composite. The composite may be a power transmission belt or portion thereof with tensile cord reinforcement. The method is useful for comparing the degree of penetration of elastomer into the tensile cord, for example in a cast polyurethane toothed belt.

Ultrasound probe and ultrasound examination device using the same

An ultrasound probe which is capable of structurally improving resolution is provided. This ultrasound probe includes: an ultrasound probe which transmits ultrasound waves to a subject; and an optical probe which detects, with use of light, the ultrasound waves reflected off internal tissue of the subject, and openings of the ultrasound probe are larger than openings of the optical probe. With this, reflected waves (ultrasound waves) from the subject can be detected by the large openings, so that high resolution can be obtained relative to a width of the transmitted ultrasound waves.

Carbon dioxide sensor

Chemical sensors such as carbon dioxide sensors and methods for making such sensors are disclosed. An example carbon dioxide sensor may include a substrate, with a sensing beam supported by the substrate. The sensing beam may be configured to resonant. A sensing layer may be disposed on the sensing beam, wherein the sensing layer may include an amino group and is configured to sense carbon dioxide. In some instances, a reference beam may also be supported by the substrate, and may be configured to resonant. A reference layer may be disposed on the reference beam, wherein the reference layer may includes an amino group that has been poisoned so that it will be substantially non-sensitive to carbon dioxide.

Early Kick Detection in an Oil and Gas Well

An apparatus, method and compute-readable medium for detecting a gas influx event in a borehole fluid during a drilling operation is disclosed. A measurement of an acoustic velocity of the borehole fluid is obtained at an acoustic sensor disposed in a borehole. A measurement of temperature of the borehole fluid is obtained at a temperature sensor disposed in the borehole. A process compares the measurement of the acoustic velocity of the borehole fluid to the measurement of the temperature of the borehole fluid to detect the gas influx event.

Analytical method and sensor

There is disclosed an analytical method and a sensor suitable for carrying out the method. More specifically, there is disclosed a method for preparing a mass sensitive chemical sensor capable of detecting binding analyte species to a surface comprising cells.

Minimally invasive cytometry system with qcl inspection of single cells for cancer detection

This disclosure concerns a minimally invasive cytometry system including a handling system that presents single cells to at least one QCL laser source. The QCL laser source is configured to deliver light to a cell within the cells in order to induce vibrational bond absorption in one or more analytes within the cell. The cytometry system also includes a detection facility that detects the mid-infrared wavelength light transmitted by the cell and identifies the cell as either cancerous or non-cancerous.

Device, Methods, and Control for Sonic Guidance of Molecules and Other Material Utilizing Time-Reversal Acoustics

The present invention provides for a method of controlling mass movement of fluid material within a field of interest comprising using time reversal acoustic focusing. The time reversal acoustic focusing can be is used for simultaneous spatial and temporal focusing of acoustic energy to control the duration of localization and/or direction of movement of material within tissue or liquid within tissue. Both delivery of material and persistence with respect to target locations can be enhanced by focusing of sonic waveforms or transmissions towards targeted areas in a field of interest, such as within a patient.

apparatus and a method for estimating the air humidity within an oven cavity

The present invention relates to an apparatus for estimating the air humidity within an oven cavity ( 14 ) by using ultrasound waves with at least two different frequencies (f 1 , f 2 ). Said apparatus comprises at least one ultrasound transmitter ( 10 ) for generating the ultrasound waves, at least one ultrasound receiver ( 12 ) for receiving the ultrasound waves and at least one phase detecting device for detecting the phase (φ 1 , φ 2 ) of the ultrasound wave at the ultrasound receiver ( 12 ) relative to the same ultrasound wave with the same frequency (f 1 , f 2 ) at the ultrasound transmitter ( 10 ). Said apparatus comprises further at least one evaluation unit for calculating the velocity (V) of the ultrasound waves on the basis of the phases (φ 1 , φ 2 ) and frequencies (f 1 , f 2 ) of the ultrasound waves with the two different frequencies (f 1 , f 2 ), at least one temperature sensor ( 32 ) for detecting the temperature (T) in the oven cavity ( 14 ) and at least one estimation unit for estimating the humidity in the oven cavity ( 14 ) on the basis of the temperature (T) and the velocity (V) of the ultrasound waves. Further, the present invention relates to a corresponding method for estimating the air humidity within an oven cavity ( 14 ).

Subject information acquisition apparatus and subject information acquisition method

A subject information acquisition apparatus includes: an acoustic wave detector which detects an acoustic wave which is generated from a subject by irradiating light and outputs a detection signal; an amplifier which amplifies the detection signal which is output from the acoustic wave detector; a gain control unit which changes a gain of the amplifier as time elapses, according to a gain control table, in order to correct a drop in intensity of the acoustic wave caused by attenuation of fluence inside the subject; and a signal processing unit which obtains information inside the subject based on the signal amplified by the amplifier. Measurement under a plurality of measurement conditions, where at least fluence distribution inside the subject or a position of the acoustic wave detector differs, is possible, and the gain control unit changes the gain control table according to the measurement conditions.

Blood coagulation time determination method and apparatus

The invention relates to a method for determining the coagulation time of a sample fluid containing blood components by means of a resonator whose vibration parameters are measured and then used as a basis for determining the sample fluid viscosity change, which resonator has an at least partially adhesive surface contacting said sample fluid. The invention is characterized by preincubation of said surface with a preincubation fluid containing blood components, which preincubation fluid has a known way of interacting with the coagulation system, thus resulting in anchoring sites to be formed on the adhesive areas of said surface.

Acoustic wave (aw) sensing devices using live cells

In one embodiment according to the invention, there is provided a method of sensing a response of a living cell or virus to a change in conditions. The method comprises applying an essentially constant external electromotive force that causes oscillation of an acoustic wave device at essentially constant amplitude and frequency under steady state conditions. The acoustic wave device has attached at least one living cell or virus. A combined oscillating system including the acoustic wave device and the living cell or virus exhibits a fundamental frequency and at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system. The living cell or virus is exposed to a change in an environmental condition while oscillating the combined oscillating system under the essentially constant external electromotive force, whereby a response of the living cell or virus to the change in environmental condition will be indicated by a change in at least one of frequency and amplitude of the oscillation of at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system.

Hybrid Separation and Detection Device for Chemical Detection and Analysis

The present invention provides a device that makes it possible to perform real-time detection and analysis of BTEX components in real samples using an inexpensive and miniaturized hybrid specific binding-separation device. The device may be used in occupational health and safety applications as well as for toxicological population studies to determine the presence of organic volatile components in an air sample.

Section-illumination photoacoustic microscopy with ultrasonic array detection

Imaging systems, probes for imaging systems, and methods for noninvasive imaging are disclosed. In one example, a probe for use with an imaging system includes a slit configured to spatially filter a light beam from a light source. The probe includes a focusing device configured to cylindrically focus the spatially filtered light beam into an object, and an ultrasound transducer array configured to detect a photoacoustic signal emitted by the object in response to the cylindrically focused light beam.

Unpowered wireless sensor systems and methods

Devices, methods, and systems for wireless transmission of data from unpowered sensor nodes are presented. An unpowered sensor node includes a sensor, a first antenna for receiving an interrogation signal from a remote source, an up-converting frequency mixer, and a second antenna for transmitting a modulated output signal. A remote sensor interrogation unit generates and transmits the interrogation signal; then receives and demodulates the modulated output signal from the sensor nodes. Any type of sensor that generates an oscillatory signal can operate without a local power source. For a sensor that generates a non-oscillatory signal, the sensor node includes a low-power signal conditioning unit to convert the signal to an oscillatory signal. The sensor node may include an energy harvester such as a photocell to power the signal conditioning unit. A low-cost network of unpowered sensor nodes may be interrogated by a single interrogation unit using a multiplexing scheme.

Systems and methods for providing temperature compensation in structural health monitoring

A method for compensating for environment induced variations in structural health monitoring data is described. The method includes imparting a vibration onto a structure first location, the structure at a first temperature, receiving a comparison signal resulting from the vibration at a second location, accessing data representing a reference signal previously received at the second location, based on vibration at the first location, the reference signal received when the structure was at a second temperature, dividing the signals across multiple time windows, performing a cross correlation between the signals in each window to maximally correlate the signals within each window, performing a weighted regression on time to estimate time shift, the weights based on reference signal energy in each window, to determine a relationship between time and time shift, and using the relationship between time and time shift of the comparison signal to reduce the effects of environment on the comparison signal.

Automated Ultrasonic Elasticity Image Formation with Quality Measure

Image data and E-mode images used in ultrasonic elasticity imaging may be automatically evaluated for quality to provide a single value used as operator feedback or for automatic selection of images for averaging or animation.

Structural damage index mapping system and method

A system and method for detecting and evaluating structural defects are provided. Baseline data representative of sensed ultrasonic waves that were transmitting into a structure with no defects are stored. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted into the structure from a plurality of actuators that are coupled to the structure. The ultrasonic waves that are transmitted into the structure from the plurality of actuators are sensed, with a plurality of sensors that are coupled to the structure and spaced apart from the actuators, to thereby generate and supply sensor data. Signal difference coefficients are calculated from the baseline data and the sensor data. The calculated signal difference coefficients are spatially mapped to detect one or more structural defects in the structure.

Inspection System And Methods For Integral Seals

An inspection system for integral seals includes an ultrasonic transducer configured to ultrasonically scan an integral seal having a rubber sealing member attached to a seal carrier, and a transducer positioning mechanism defining a plurality of translational degrees of freedom and a rotational degree of freedom. An electronic control unit is coupled with the ultrasonic transducer, and may be configured to store data indicative of a defect in the integral seal responsive to a reflection pattern defined by ultrasound reflected by the rubber sealing member and the seal carrier. Related methodology is also disclosed.

Bi-stable oscillator

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a bi-stable oscillator circuit for detecting a load imparted to a surface. The bi-stable oscillator comprises an electrical amplifier, at least one resonator comprising an electrical transducer having a resonant frequency, a surface of the resonator forming the surface on which the load is to be detected and an impedance network having a resonant frequency. The resonator is arranged to be exposed to an environment under test, and the resonator and the impedance network are connected in parallel with the electrical amplifier such that when a load imparted to the surface exceeds a pre-determined threshold value the oscillator circuit oscillates at the resonant frequency of the impedance network and when a load imparted to the surface is less than the threshold value the oscillator circuit oscillates at the resonant frequency of the resonator, switching of the circuit oscillation frequency being indicative of the load crossing the predetermined threshold value.

Method for Detecting Gas and a Gas Detector Therefor

It is presented a method for detecting a gas (G). Acoustic waves (W t ) are generated and transmitted via a wave generating and sensing means ( 2 ) towards a reflecting wall ( 3 ) and thereafter reflected acoustic waves (W t ) are detected by the wave generating and sensing means ( 2 ) wherein a presence of the gas (G) is detected by determining a change in an output signal of the wave generating and sensing means ( 2 ). A gas detector ( 1 ) is also presented.

Cavity enhanced laser based isotopic gas analyzer

Systems and methods for measuring the isotope ratio of one or more trace gases and/or components of gas mixtures such as different gas species present in a gas mixture. The system includes a resonant optical cavity having two or more mirrors and containing a gas, the cavity having a free spectral range that equals the difference between frequencies of two measured absorption lines of different gas species in the gas, or of two different isotopes, divided onto an integer number. The system includes a continuous-wave tunable laser optically coupled with the resonant optical cavity and a detector system for measuring an absorption of laser light by the gas in the cavity. The detector system includes a photo-detector to measure an intensity of the intra-cavity light, or both a photo-acoustic sensor to measure photo-acoustic waves generated in the cavity and a photo-detector to measure an intensity of the intra-cavity light.

Array for sensing and inducing strain in an adhesively bonded joint including magnetostrictive material

Sensing strain in an adhesively bonded joint includes inducing a strain wave in the joint, and sensing a change in local magnetic characteristics in the joint.

Ultrasonic Particle Measuring System

An ultrasonic particle measuring system having an ultrasonic transducer with at least one ultrasonic transducer element and at least one coupling element, wherein, during operation, acoustic signals are transmittable and receivable by the ultrasonic transducer element via the coupling element, wherein the coupling element is embodied as an acoustic lens, and the ultrasonic, particle measuring system has an evaluation unit suitable for amplitude analysis of reflection signals of acoustic signals reflected from particles to the ultrasonic transducer, and wherein, with the evaluation unit, amplitudes of reflection signals in a predetermined time interval are countable, which are greater than a predetermined threshold value.

Method and device for non-destructive material testing by means of ultrasound

A method is described for non-destructive material testing on a workpiece comprising an electrically conductive material using EMUS transducers, each of which has a magnet unit for locally introducing a magnetic field into the workpiece, and also has a radio frequency (RF) coil arrangement, which interacts with the magnetic field. The invention is distinguished in that at least two transcuers are spaced apart along a surface of the workpiece. At least a first EMUS transducer generates and also measures ultrasound waves within the workpiece and the second EMUS transducer functions as a reception transducer for at least detecting ultrasound waves.

Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing

An apparatus and method for ultrasonic non-destructive testing provides an elongate strip of ultrasound transmissive material coupled at a proximal end to an object under test. The elongate strip has a transverse cross-section with a width and thickness giving an aspect ratio greater than unity and matched to the ultrasonic transducer such that excitation induces a substantially non-dispersive ultrasonic signal to propagate along the elongate strip to the proximal end and to enter the object under test. These non-dispersive pulses are particularly suited for time-of-flight measurements, thickness measurements, crack measurements and the like. The elongate strip helps to separate the transducer from a potentially hostile environment associated with the object under test. The elongate strip also has a large area of contact with the object under test allowing efficient transmission of energy into the object under test.

Acoustic Emission Toughness Testing For PDC, PCBN, Or Other Hard Or Superhard Material Inserts

An acoustic emissions testing device includes a test cutter including a first surface, an acoustic sensor, an indenter coupled to the first surface, and a load. The load is exerted on the indenter, which transfers the load to the first surface. The acoustic sensor is communicably coupled to the test cutter and detects one or more acoustic events occurring therein. An acoustic emissions testing system includes a data recorder coupled to the testing device. The data recorder records the data from testing device. Based upon the data received, the toughness of the test cutter is objectively determined and can be ranked comparatively to the toughness of other test cutters. The load is ramped up to a peak load, held for a period of time, and then ramped down. Cutters from the same cutter type as the test cutters have similar toughness.

Apparatus and method for non-destructive testing using ultrasonic phased array

The present invention is related generally to the field of non-destructive materials testing using ultrasonic devices, more particularly, ultrasonic devices in a phased array and includes a wedge for conducting pitch-catch ultrasonic phase array testing of materials wherein the wedge includes a liquid column and is manufactured with specific angles so as to control the angle at which the ultrasonic waves pass into the wedge and then are refracted when passing from the liquid in the liquid column into the material being analyzed, thus providing a wider range of analysis via sweeping the beams from the wedge than was possible with known wedges.

Concurrent Multiple Characteristic Ultrasonic Inspection

A method for acoustically measuring an external surface of a component and a wall thickness or component thickness at that location is provided. The method also provides for measuring the external surface by physical contact while concurrently acoustically measuring a wall thickness at that location.

Ultrasonic probe and inspection apparatus equipped with the ultrasonic probe

An ultrasonic probe includes a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber, an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves to an electric signal, and a light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion. A light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion.

Photoacoustic measuring device and method

The present invention provides a photoacoustic measuring device and a method by which the presence of an object can be easily identifyied in a relatively short time in photoacoustic measurement while holding an object by a holding plate. The photoacoustic measuring device has a irradiating unit with which the object is irradiated with light, a holding unit holding the object by the holding plate, a detecting unit detecting the photoacoustic wave generated by irradiating light and an analyzing unit analyzing photoacoustic signal of the photoacoustic wave. The analyzing unit analyzes a photoacoustic signal to acquire information concerning change of a signal intensity of a component of the photoacoustic signal of produced in an interface between the detecting unit and the holding plate and an interface between the holding plate and the object, to identify the presence of the object.

Flaw Detection Method and Apparatus for Fuel Cell Components

Various embodiments provide systems and methods for detecting defects in components of a fuel cell. Embodiment methods and systems include directing acoustic energy into the component, detecting acoustic energy from the component, analyzing a characteristic of the detected acoustic energy, and based on the analyzing, determining the presence or absence of a defect in the component.

Ultrasonic method and system for determining tissue pathology

A method for determining a pathology of a tissue sample. The method includes steps of coupling the tissue sample between two oppositely-facing ultrasonic transducers; acquiring a pulse-echo ultrasonic measurement and a through-transmission ultrasonic measurement of the tissue sample using the ultrasonic transducers; analyzing at least one of the pulse-echo ultrasonic measurement and the through-transducer transmission ultrasonic measurement using time domain analysis; analyzing at least one of the through-transmission ultrasonic measurements and the pulse-echo ultrasonic measurements using frequency domain analysis; and determining the pathology of the tissue sample based on at least one of the time domain analysis and the frequency domain analysis.

Internal stringer inspection system for integrated structures

An inspection apparatus and method for inspecting an interior surface of a hollow composite part. The inspection apparatus may have a first plug, a second plug, and a trolley positioned between the first and second plugs. The first and second plugs may form a leak-proof seal against the interior surface of the hollow composite part. The trolley may support at least one inspection probe for testing the interior surface of the composite part. A method of inspecting the composite part may include the steps of inserting the inspection apparatus into the hollow composite part, pushing or pulling the inspection apparatus with an elongated actuation element to a desired area to be inspected within the composite part, then filling a space between first and second plugs with a liquid. Finally, the method may include a step of inspecting the interior surface of the hollow composite part with the inspection probe.

Apparatus for detecting a toner density of a liquid developer

A deaerator and a density detector are provided in a liquid developer circulating path through which the liquid developer in a main tank is circulated, wherein the deaerator includes a bundle of hollow fibers each forming a hollow fiber membrane whose inside is depressurized and over whose outer peripheral surface the liquid developer is forced to flow under pressure, thereby sufficiently removing dissolved air in the liquid developer, and a toner density of the liquid developer is detected when the liquid developer of which dissolved air is sufficiently removed is passed through the density detector utilizing ultrasonic waves, making it possible to detect the toner density with a high degree of precision.

Apparatus for Noninvasive Measurement of Properties of a Fluid Flowing in a Tubing Having a Small Inner Diameter Passage

Apparatus for non-invasive measuring of the sound velocity of a fluid flowing in a tubing having a small internal diameter for the fluid passage as compared to the tubing wall thickness and having points of two different and known transverse length with a sensor mounted at each point and a delay line adjacent to the tubing at each point. Each sensor is connected to a circuit that provides ultrasonic energy signals that are transmitted through the tubing walls, the flowing fluid and the delay line to be reflected back to the sensor from which the round trip transit time of the signals is measured and the sound velocity calculated from the two measured round trip transit times and the differential between the known transverse lengths.

Optical waveguide having a varying index gradient

A photoacoustic detection device including a nanophotonic circuit including a first chip on which is formed at least one optical waveguide and in which is formed a set of cavities defining a Helmholtz resonator; at least one optical source capable of emitting an optical signal in a given wavelength range, capable of being modulated at an acoustic modulation frequency, this source being attached to the first chip; a second chip forming a cap for said cavities and including acoustic sensors; and electronic circuits for processing the output of the acoustic sensors formed in the first or the second chip. Further, an optical waveguide comprising, on a silicon substrate, a silicon germanium core with a variable germanium concentration along a direction perpendicular to the substrate, said core being covered with a cladding silicon layer.

Materials-testing multisensor and method for testing of materials with a materials-testing multisensor

A material testing multisensor comprising at least one receiving sensor ( 1 ) with at least two pins ( 2 ), which are electrically conductive, preferably in the front region, can be driven with a defined force into a test piece to be investigated and, depending on their depth of penetration, allow the average density there to be concluded and, depending on the electrical conductivity between the pins ( 2 ), allow the ion content between them to be concluded, and also comprising at least one transmitter ( 3 ) or transmitter sensor, with which the test piece is tapped at at least one location, preferably at a number of locations, in the case of round cross sections for example seven evenly distributed locations, in order to measure and evaluate the sound transit time and other properties of the generated shockwaves at the receiving sensor ( 1 ). Also provided is a method for material testing with such a material testing multisensor.

Method to determine the mass concentration of particles in a dispersion including particles and fluid

In a method to determine particle mass concentration in a dispersion having particles and fluid, the dispersion in a measurement cell is exposed to an alternating field of variable frequency to set the particles into oscillation to generate sound pressure waves. Amplitudes of the sound pressure waves are measured depending on the frequency so that a maximum amplitude of the sound pressure waves is established and a frequency associated with the amplitude is determined as a resonance frequency of the sound pressure wave. The mass concentration of the particles in the dispersion is established from the resonance frequency.

Cavity opto-mechanical sensor array

A mass sensor system including multiple Fabry-Perot microcavities connected in parallel by multiple waveguides. Each of the mass sensors includes a microbridge having a fundamental resonance frequency, and a movable reflective mirror etched into the microbridge; a fixed reflective mirror etched in a substrate, the fixed reflective mirror being fixed to the substrate in a region spaced apart from the movable reflective mirror; and an optical waveguide etched in the substrate that connects the movable mirror and the fixed mirror forming the Fabry-Perot microcavity interferometer. The system includes a tunable continuous-wave laser operative to optically interrogate the Fabry-Perot microcavity of each of the plurality of mass sensors, and a receiver operative to receive sensor signals from each of the plurality of mass sensors, the sensor signals comprising reflective signals and transmitted signals. A continuous-wave laser may generate optical forces that modify the motion, dynamics, or mechanical Q-factor of the microbridge.

Property measurement system for metal material

A property measurement system for a metal material includes: a laser oscillator that emits a pulse laser beam; a lens array that has small lenses with a same shape, the small lenses being laid in a matrix on a plane perpendicular to an optical axis of the pulse laser beam, and arranged so that a part of a cross section of the pulse laser beam can be made incident onto each of small lenses; a condensing lens that overlaps and condenses emitted beams coming from the small lenses on a same region of a surface of a metal material as a measurement target; a laser interferometer that detects, as an electric signal, a pulse ultrasonic wave that is excited by the pulse laser beam condensed and propagates through an inside of the metal material; and a signal processing device that processes the electric signal.

Method and apparatus for defect detection in composite structures

Methods and apparatus for non-destructive testing of a composite structure utilizing sonic or ultrasonic waves. In response to a wideband chirp wave sonic excitation signal transmitted from a probe to the composite structure, a probe signal received is correlated with a library of predetermined probe signals and a graphical representation of defects detected is generated. The graphical representation provides detailed information on defect type, defect location and defect shape. Also contemplated is a probe for non-destructive testing of a composite structure comprising three or more transducers wherein each transducer is separately configurable as a transmitter or as a receiver; and a controller coupled to each of transducer for providing signals thereto and receiving signals therefrom, wherein the signals provided thereto include signals for configuring each transducer as either a transmitter or a receiver, and signals for providing an excitation signal from each transducer which is configured as a transmitter.

In-well full-bore multiphase flowmeter for horizontal wellbores

Methods and apparatus for measuring individual phase fractions and phase flow rates in a multiphase flow based on velocity of the flow, speed of sound through the fluid mixture, and the density of the fluid mixture. Techniques presented herein are based on measuring frictional pressure drop across a flowmeter conduit, determining a surface roughness term for the conduit during initial flow tests or through other mechanical means, implementing a correction method to balance the momentum equation, and calculating the fluid mixture density using the measured pressure drop. The techniques may be applicable to measuring flow parameters in horizontally oriented conduits and, more generally, conduits of any orientation.

Non-destructive evaluation methods for machine-riveted bearings

The disclosed embodiments generally relate to non-destructive evaluation methods. In an embodiment, a method for non-destructive evaluation of a machine-riveted bearing includes positioning a first plurality of sensors in the region of interest, the first plurality of acoustic sensors being provided in a phased array, positioning a second plurality of sensors in the region of interest, the second plurality of sensors being provided in a phased array, inducing a vibration in the region of interest using the first plurality of sensors and receiving a resonance frequency spectra using the second plurality of sensors, and comparing the received resonance frequency spectra against a reference spectra to determine the presence of an anomaly in the region of interest.

System and method for photoacoustic gas analysis

A system for analyzing gas concentrations in a gas mixture includes an array of semiconductor light sources which are configured to generate an electromagnetic radiation having a narrow bandwidth. A controller modulates the electromagnetic radiation at a modulating frequency to provide light pulses at an absorption wavelength of at least one target gas. The system also includes an acoustic resonant gas chamber to hold the gas mixture and configured to receive the light pulses and amplify acoustic signals emanating from the gas mixture. A processor determines a concentration of the target gas based on acoustic signals.

Method And Device for Measuring Corrosion Metal Loss

A method and system for detecting corrosion metal loss. One may provide a guided wave probe that includes an electromechanical device and a corrosion probe. This may be followed by measuring a baseline guided wave attenuation value of the corrosion probe with no corrosion. One may then periodically measure the guided wave attenuation of the corrosion probe and detect an increase in guided wave attenuation values and identify metal corrosion associated with the increase in guided wave attenuation values. This may then be followed by estimating the corrosion metal loss of the metallic component.

Apparatus For Determining The Texture Of Food Material

The present application relates to an apparatus for determining the texture of food material, wherein the apparatus comprises a device for generating a vibrational impact, such as a piezo actuator, a device for measuring vibrations, such as a vibrometer, a holding mechanism, comprising a container body for containing the food material therein or a string to attach the food material thereto, and an analyser for comparing measured vibrations with at least one reference value, determined prior to the measurement.

Electrically Responsive Device

In some aspects, an electrically responsive device can include a composite structure having spatially modulated structural properties that includes a substrate material having a surface and defining a plane; an electrically responsive material layer formed over at least a portion of the surface of the substrate material; an electrode material over portions of the electrically responsive material; and a stiffening material disposed along the electrode material, where the stiffening material has a thickness that varies and has regions of increased thickness that correspond with the regions of the composite structure along which the electrode material is disposed. The spatially modulated structural properties can include the regions of the composite structure along which the electrode material is disposed having the increased material stiffness, exclusive of the electrode material, relative to regions of the composite structure that do not include the electrode material.

Passive wireless sensors for chemical and biological agents and wireless systems including the passive wireless sensors

Wireless sensors for detection of an analyte may include a sensor receiving antenna configured to receive interrogation pulses having an interrogation frequency, a DC converter, a relaxation oscillator circuit electrically, and a sensor transmitting antenna. The relaxation oscillator circuit may include a capacitance element that defines a response-pulse frequency of the wireless sensor. The capacitance element may include an interdigitated capacitor coated with a detection layer of a functional material having a dielectric constant that defines the dielectric constant of the interdigitated capacitor. This dielectric constant changes when the functional material is exposed to the analyte, thereby changing the response-pulse frequency of the relaxation oscillator circuit to an analyte-exposure frequency indicative of the exposure of the functional material to the analyte. Wireless systems for detecting an analyte may include a wireless sensor that communicates with an interrogation module.

Acoustic wave (aw) sensing devices using live cells

In one embodiment according to the invention, there is provided a method of sensing a response of a living cell or virus to a change in conditions. The method comprises applying an essentially constant external electromotive force that causes oscillation of an acoustic wave device at essentially constant amplitude and frequency under steady state conditions. The acoustic wave device has attached at least one living cell or virus. A combined oscillating system including the acoustic wave device and the living cell or virus exhibits a fundamental frequency and at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system. The living cell or virus is exposed to a change in an environmental condition while oscillating the combined oscillating system under the essentially constant external electromotive force, whereby a response of the living cell or virus to the change in environmental condition will be indicated by a change in at least one of frequency and amplitude of the oscillation of at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system.

Method And Device For Operating An SCR System

A method for operating a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system having a urea solution supply and an ultrasound based urea concentration sensor, the measurement signal of the urea concentration sensor being representative of a propagation time of an ultrasonic pulse along a predefined path length in a fluid of the urea solution supply includes: heating at least the fluid in a detection region of the urea concentration sensor from a predefined first temperature to a predefined second temperature; during the heating, detecting the measurement signal at at least a third and fourth temperature, and in each case determining a raw concentration characteristic value as a function of the respective measurement signal, which raw concentration characteristic value is representative of the propagation time of the ultrasonic pulse; and determining a concentration characteristic value, representative of a concentration of urea in the fluid, as a function of the raw concentration characteristic values.

ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION METHOD, ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION APPARATUS, AND PIPE MANUFACTURING METHOD

An ultrasonic flaw detection method to detect flaws on an inner surface of a metallic pipe using ultrasonic waves includes a waveform hold step that acquires and holds waveform data of an echo signal when an ultrasonic probe that generates ultrasonic signals toward the inner surface and the metallic pipe are moved relative to each other, a signal analyzing step that calculates a path length up to receiving an echo signal from the inner surface and a change rate of the path length based on the waveform data held, and a flaw detecting step that detects flaws on the inner surface based on the path length and the change rate of the path length. 1. An ultrasonic flaw detection method to detect flaws on an inner surface of a metallic pipe using ultrasonic waves comprising:a waveform holding step that acquires and holds waveform data of an echo signal when an ultrasonic probe that generates ultrasonic signals toward the inner surface and the metallic pipe are moved relative to each other;a signal analyzing step that calculates a path length up to receiving an echo signal from the inner surface and a change rate of the path length based on the waveform data held; anda flaw detecting step that detects flaws on the inner surface based on the path length and the change rate of the path length.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the flaw detecting step determines that a flaw is present in a portion satisfying a condition in which the path length is equal to or smaller than a given path length threshold or the change rate of the path length is equal to or greater than a given path-length change rate threshold claim 1 , and that no flaw is present in a portion not satisfying the condition.3. The method according to claim 1 , whereinthe signal analyzing step further calculates a height of the echo signal from the inner surface based on the waveform data held, andthe flaw detecting step determines that a flaw is present in a portion satisfying a condition in which the path ...

BIOSENSOR

The present application provides apparatus and methods for determining the density of a fluid sample. In particular, it provides a sensor device which can be loaded with a fluid sample such as blood, and which further comprises at least one oscillating beam member or resonator. Exposure of the blood sample to clotting agents allows a clotting reaction to commence. The device allows the density of the sample fluid to be monitored with reference to the oscillation of the vibrating beam member, thus allowing the monitoring of the clotting of the fluid sample. 1. A resonant sensor assembly for monitoring density and/or viscosity of a fluid comprising:a base substrate of fixed width and length;at least three parallel resonating beam members patterned in and integral to the base substrate, wherein the at least three beam members comprise a central beam member and at least two outer beam members, and wherein a width of the central beam member is twice the width of the at least two outer beam members such that a third mode of oscillation of the at least three beam members is optimally excitable;at least one vibration excitory element for use in providing a selective oscillation of at least one of the three beam members, wherein the at least one vibration excitory element is configured to cause at least one of the beam members to resonate in a transverse direction; andat least one sensor element for use in determining a frequency of oscillation of at least one of the at least three beam members, whereby density and/or viscosity of a fluid can be monitored by monitoring oscillations of at least one beam member.2. The resonant sensor assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the base substrate further comprising one or two side beams patterned in and integral to the base substrate parallel and spaced from the resonating beam members.3. The resonant beam assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one vibratory excitory element and the at least one sensor element are ...

ACOUSTIC WAVE DETECTION PROBE AND PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS PROVIDED WITH THE SAME

In an acoustic wave detection probe provided with a light guide section that guides measuring light such that the measuring light is outputted toward a subject and an acoustic wave transducer that detects a photoacoustic wave generated in the subject by the projection of the measuring light, the light guide section includes a homogenizer that flat-tops an energy profile of the measuring light entered from the upstream side of the optical system, a light condensing member that condenses the measuring light transmitted through the homogenizer, and a bundle fiber which includes a plurality of optical fibers and is disposed such that the measuring light transmitted through the light condensing member enters from an entrance end of the bundle fiber. 2. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the homogenizer is a light shaping diffuser in which small lenses are disposed randomly on one side of a substrate so that the measuring light is further diffused.3. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the holding section is configured to hold the entrance end portion of the optical fibers so as to cover the input surface of the bundle fiber, and the holding section has a window at a portion at which the measuring light enters.4. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 3 , wherein:the window is constituted by an ND filter.5. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , further comprising:an aperture member having an aperture that allows the measuring light, which is to enter the bundle fiber, to pass through and is provided at the entrance end of the bundle fiber, and gradually reduces the diameter of the aperture toward the entrance end to a size corresponding to the diameter of the bundle fiber.6. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in any one of claim 1 , wherein:the holding section includes therein a light guide member formed of a cap member and a ring shaped chip made of a ...

METHOD FOR DETERMINING MECHANICAL DAMAGE TO A ROTOR BLADE OF A WIND TURBINE

A method for detecting mechanical damage to a rotor blade of a wind turbine includes measuring vibrations of the rotor blade and generating a frequency-dependent vibration signal. A value of the signal energy over a predetermined frequency range of the vibration signal is determined at each of a number of measuring times and the respectively determined signal energy values are evaluated with respect to time in order to detect mechanical damage. 1. A method for identifying mechanical damage to a rotor blade of a wind turbine , comprising:sensing vibrations of the rotor blade;generating a frequency-dependent vibration signal;determining in each case a signal energy measure, over a predefined frequency range of the vibration signal, at a number of measurement instants; and evaluating the respectively determined signal energy measures with respect to time, so as to identify mechanical damage.2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the predefined frequency range has a width of at least 50 Hz claim 1 , 100 Hz claim 1 , 250 Hz claim 1 , or 500 Hz.3. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the predefined frequency range includes frequencies above 50 Hz.4. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the predefined frequency range includes frequencies below 1000 Hz.5. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a frequency range of approximately 150 to approximately 350 Hz claim 1 , 500 Hz claim 1 , or 1000 Hz is used as a predefined frequency range.6. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the signal energy measure is determined on the basis of a mean signal energy in the frequency range.7. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the evaluation in respect of time comprises comparing the signal energy measure of a rotor blade with a corresponding signal energy measure of another rotor blade of the same wind turbine claim 1 , and wherein mechanical damage is identified if a difference between the time characteristics of the two signal energy measures exceeds a ...

Method And Device For Detecting And Analyzing Deposits

The present invention relates to a method and device for detecting and analyzing deposits in liquid-bearing systems. More particularly, the device relates to being able to detect and analyze deposits in a liquid-bearing systems such as industrial plants that use and store fluids. The method relates to being able to determine a distribution of the run time of a detected ultrasonic reflection signal and analyzing the distribution to determine if deposits are deposited onto a reflecting area. 1. A method for detecting and analyzing deposits on a reflecting area , in particular inside a liquid-bearing system , comprising the steps of:emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area by an ultrasonic transducer in a first step;detecting an ultrasonic reflection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of the reflecting area by detection means in a second step;determining a distribution of the run time of the detected ultrasonic reflection signal in response to a specified variable in a third step;analyzing the distribution in a fourth step in order to determine if deposits are deposited at least partially onto the reflecting area.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the distribution is analyzed in the fourth step whether the distribution comprises a stationary point claim 1 , an inflection point claim 1 , a break point claim 1 , a pole and/or a discontinuity.31. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the position claim 1 , the gradient and/or the curvature of the distribution and/or the position of the stationary point claim 1 , the inflection point claim 1 , the break point claim 1 , the pole and/or a discontinuity is analyzed in the fourth step.4. A method for detecting and analyzing deposits on a reflecting area claim 3 , in particular according to claim 3 , comprising the steps of:emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area by an ultrasonic transducer in a first step;detecting an ...

Device And Method For Detecting Deposits

The present invention relates to a method and device for detecting and analyzing deposits in liquid-bearing systems. More particularly, the device relates to being able to detect and analyze deposits in a liquid-bearing systems such as industrial plants that use and store fluids. The method relates to being able to determine a distribution of the run time of a detected ultrasonic reflection signal and analyzing the distribution to determine if deposits are deposited onto a reflecting area. 1. A device for detecting deposits in a reflecting area inside a liquid-bearing system comprising an ultrasonic transducer for emitting an ultrasonic emission signal towards the reflecting area and a detection means for detecting an ultrasonic reflection signal obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic emission signal in the area of the reflecting area , wherein the device further comprises heating means for increasing the temperature of the reflecting area.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the heating means is directly coupled to the reflecting area claim 1 , wherein preferably the heating means is rigidly coupled to the reflecting area by heat conducting means made of a thermally conductive material.3. The device according to claim 2 , wherein the device comprises a reflecting wall claim 2 , wherein the reflecting area is provided at least partially by the reflecting wall claim 2 , preferably the reflecting wall comprises a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system and/or at least serves as a wall portion of the liquid-bearing system.4. The device according to claim 3 , wherein the heat conducting means comprises a holder having a recess claim 3 , in which the heating means is accommodated claim 3 , and wherein the heat conducting means comprises the reflecting wall claim 3 , wherein an inner side of the reflecting wall faces the ultrasonic transducer.5. The device according to claim 4 , wherein the device comprises a reflecting unit comprising the heating means claim ...

ULTRASONIC NDT SENSOR ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING SURFACES OF VARIABLE GEOMETRY OF METAL BODIES

The invention relates to an ultrasonic NDT sensor arrangement for inspecting surfaces of variable geometry of metal bodies. The sensor arrangement includes a housing with a hollow inner space and an opening, through which part of an incoming sound beam exits the housing to enter a metal body to be tested. An ultrasonic sensor is coupled to the housing such that it emits said incoming sound beam directly into said hollow inner space in a direction towards the opening. The said inner space of the housing is filled with a first coupling fluid which is water. The opening of the housing is closed with a closing member, which is made of a silicone material and which has a similar density and velocity of sound compared to the first coupling fluid. 1. An ultrasonic NDT sensor arrangement for inspecting surfaces of variable geometry of metal bodies , comprising:a housing with a hollow inner space and an opening, through which part of an incoming sound beam exits the housing to enter a metal body to be tested;an ultrasonic sensor coupled to said housing such that it emits said incoming sound beam directly into said hollow inner space in a direction towards said opening, whereby said inner space of said housing is filled with a first coupling fluid,wherein that first coupling fluid is water and said opening of said housing is closed with a closing member, which is made of a silicone material and which has a similar density and velocity of sound compared to said first coupling fluid.2. The sensor arrangement according to claim 1 , wherein said closing member is a membrane.3. The sensor arrangement according to claims 1 , further comprising a pump is connected to the inner space of said housing to supply said sensor arrangement with said first coupling fluid.4. The sensor arrangement according to claim 1 , wherein said ultrasonic sensor is oriented with respect to said opening or closing member such that said part of the incoming sound beam claim 1 , which exits the housing ...

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS

Used is an object information acquiring apparatus including an irradiation unit for irradiating an object with a laser beam, a wavelength switching unit for selecting a wavelength of the laser beam, a restriction unit for restricting an output value of the laser beam, a probe for receiving acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam, and a configuration unit for generating characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves, wherein the restriction unit restricts the output value according to the wavelength selected by the wavelength switching unit. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus , comprising:irradiation means configured to irradiate an object with a laser beam;wavelength switching means configured to select a wavelength of the laser beam;restriction means configured to restrict an output value of the laser beam;a probe configured to receive acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam;construction means configured to generate characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves; anda variable voltage power source in which a voltage is controlled by the restriction means,wherein the restriction means restricts the output value according to the wavelength selected by the wavelength switching means, andwherein the irradiation means irradiates a laser beam as a result of laser medium excitation by a flash lamp that has received a high current pulse, which was created according to the voltage value of the variable voltage power source in a pulse-forming network, and also a result of Q-switching of a laser medium by a Q-switch.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , for each wavelength of the laser beam claim 1 , the laser medium has a different gain claim 1 , which represents an output value of the laser beam relative to the voltage value of the variable voltage power source.3. The ...

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS

An object information acquiring apparatus is used, which includes: an irradiation unit for irradiating an object with a laser beam; a restriction unit for restricting an output of the laser beam from the irradiation unit; a control unit for controlling an irradiation of the laser beam and an activation of the restriction unit; a probe for receiving acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam; and a construction unit for generating characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves, wherein the control unit performs irradiation control of not irradiating the laser beam when the restriction unit is being activated. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus , comprising:irradiation means configured to irradiate an object with a laser beam;restriction means configured to restrict an output of the laser beam from the irradiation means;control means configured to control an irradiation of the laser beam and an activation of the restriction means;a probe configured to receive acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam; andconstruction means configured to generate characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves,wherein the control means performs irradiation control of not irradiating the laser beam when the restriction means is being activated.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the restriction means is a shutter disposed on a light path of the laser beam, andwherein the control means performs the irradiation control during an open/close operation of the shutter.3. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the irradiation means irradiates a laser beam of a wavelength selected from among a plurality of wavelengths, andwherein the control means performs the irradiation control, upon changing the wavelength of the laser beam.4. The object information acquiring apparatus ...

OBJECT CHARACTERISTICS MEASUREMENT APPARATUS

An object characteristics measurement apparatus of the invention includes a surface acoustic wave device. The surface acoustic wave device includes: an interdigitated electrode that is formed on a first surface on a piezoelectric substrate, excites an elastic wave, and receives reflection based on the elastic wave; a reflector that has a third surface and a fourth surface between the interdigitated electrode and a second surface orthogonal to the first surface in a propagation direction of the elastic wave; a reaction field that is formed between the interdigitated electrode and the reflector, in which the measured object is to be loaded; and a propagator that is formed between the reflector and the second surface. 1. An object characteristics measurement apparatus , comprising a surface acoustic wave device ,the surface acoustic wave device comprising:an interdigitated electrode that is formed on a first surface on a piezoelectric substrate, excites an elastic wave, and receives reflection based on the elastic wave;a reflector that has a third surface and a fourth surface between the interdigitated electrode and a second surface orthogonal to the first surface of the piezoelectric substrate in a propagation direction of the elastic wave, the third surface being formed at a position different from that of the first surface in a normal direction of the first surface, the fourth surface connecting an end of the first surface, which is formed perpendicular to the normal direction of the first surface, to the third surface;a reaction field that is formed between the interdigitated electrode and the reflector, in which the measured object is to be loaded; anda propagator that is formed between the reflector and the second surface, whereina surface acoustic wave is separated and extracted from a bulk wave, and characteristics of the measured object are determined based on the extracted surface acoustic wave, the surface acoustic wave propagating along the reaction field ...

Detecting Train Separation

This application describes method and apparatus for detecting train separation, where one or more railway cars/carriages () accidentally decouple from the rest of the train. The method involves performing distributed acoustic sensing on at least one optical fibre () to provide a plurality of longitudinal acoustic sensor portions along the railway (). The acoustic response is analysed to detect a signature indicative of a train separation. This may involve detecting acoustic events () associated with different parts of the train and detecting when the separation between the two events exceeds a threshold amount. The method may identify the front of the train and the rear of the train and detect when the distance between the front and rear changes by more than a threshold amount and/or sounds associated with wheelsets passing track features () may be used to determine the intervals (T, T) between wheelsets of adjacent cars and determine when the interval exceeds a threshold amount. The threshold may be based on the interval (T) between wheelsets of the same car passing the track feature. 1. A method detecting separation of a train comprising:performing distributed acoustic sensing on at least one optical fibre deployed along the length of a railway so as to provide a plurality of longitudinal acoustic sensor portions along the railway;analysing the acoustic response from said acoustic sensor portions to detect a signature indicative of a train having separated.2. A method as claimed in wherein said detecting said signature comprises detecting a first acoustic event associated with a first part of a train and a second acoustic event associated with a second different part of the train and detecting that the separation between the first acoustic event and second acoustic event is beyond a threshold.3. A method as claimed in comprising analysing the acoustic response from the acoustic sensor portions to locate an acoustic signal indicative of the front of the train and ...

Systems and methods for detecting embedded target elements using signal interference

A sensor system includes a sensor module that is embedded in a target environment and a signal system. The sensor module includes an active sensor of a first type that detects a target element in the target environment and a reference sensor of the first type that prevents detection of target elements by the reference sensor. The active sensor and the reference sensor receive an ultrasonic signal and respectively generate a first response signal and a second response signal. The first response signal is at least partially as a function of the detected target element. The signal system includes an ultrasonic transducer that generates the ultrasonic signal and receives the first and second response signals, and a controller communicatively coupled to the ultrasonic transducer. The controller identifies the detected target element based at least partially on the first and second response signals.

ULTRASONIC INSPECTION FOR CERAMIC STRUCTURES

Methods, systems, and devices for ultrasonic inspection for ceramic structures are described. The method may include transmitting, via an ultrasonic transmitter, an ultrasonic waveform through the ceramic structure, where the ceramic structure includes two opposing ends and one or more outer faces extending between the two opposing ends, the one or more outer faces being at least partially enclosed by a casing and the ultrasonic transmitter being positioned adjacent to a first of the two opposing ends. The method may also include receiving a propagated waveform via an ultrasonic receiver positioned adjacent to a second of the two opposing ends and generating an image based at least in part on the propagated waveform, the image illustrating at least a portion of the casing and one or more detected features of the ceramic structure at the one or more outer faces of the ceramic structure adjacent to the casing. 1. A method for detecting features of a ceramic structure , the method comprising:transmitting, via an ultrasonic transmitter, an ultrasonic waveform through the ceramic structure, wherein the ceramic structure comprises two opposing ends and one or more outer faces extending between the two opposing ends, wherein the one or more outer faces are at least partially enclosed by a casing, and wherein the ultrasonic transmitter is positioned adjacent to a first of the two opposing ends;receiving a propagated waveform via an ultrasonic receiver positioned adjacent to a second of the two opposing ends, the propagated waveform being the ultrasonic waveform after traversal of the ceramic structure; andgenerating an image based at least in part on the propagated waveform, wherein the image illustrates at least a portion of the casing and is capable of illustrating one or more detected features of the ceramic structure at the one or more outer faces of the ceramic structure adjacent to the casing.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:enclosing the one or more ...

ULTRASONIC DETECTION AND TENSILE CALIBRATION TEST METHOD FOR BONDING STRENGTH GRADE

An ultrasonic detection and tensile calibration test method for bonding strength grade comprising bonding an upper substrate block to bonding groove(s) to form a theoretical bonding area, and applying a downward actual tensile force to a lower substrate block; obtaining an actual bonding area of the theoretical bonding area; calculating a first actual bonding strength by using the actual tensile force and the actual bonding area, and comparing the first actual bonding strength with a second actual bonding strength calculated to verify the correctness of the theoretical bonding area as a calibrated bonding strength; forming a bond strength table in which the theoretical bonding areas, the actual bonding areas and the first actual bonding strengths are in one-to-one correspondence; and using the actual bonding area to find the actual bonding strength corresponding to the actual bonding area from the bonding area bonding strength table. 1. An ultrasonic detection and tensile calibration test method for bonding strength grade , comprising:a step 1 of arranging an upper substrate block and a lower substrate block on a tensile testing machine respectively, wherein the upper substrate block is fixedly arranged, and an upper surface of the lower substrate block is provided with nine bonding grooves of the same area;{'sub': 'lv', 'a step 2 of bonding the upper substrate block to the bonding groove(s) to form a theoretical bonding area s, and a downward actual tensile force is applied to the lower substrate block;'}{'sub': 'sj', 'a step 3 of scanning an actual bonding area sof the theoretical bonding area by using an ultrasonic scanning method;'}{'sub': sj1', 'sj', 'sj1', 'sj2, 'a step 4 of calculating a first actual bonding strength σby using the actual tensile force in the step 2 and the actual bonding area sin the step 3, and the first actual bonding strength σis compared with a second actual bonding strength σcalculated by an equation to verify the correctness of a method ...

Ultrasonic monitoring system of the nuclear reactor above core space

System for detecting, in a space being monitored, for example a gap, obstacles to rotation of the rotating plugs during refueling operations. The system includes an ultrasound reflector configured in the form of a ring on which at least one row of vertical cylindrical rods is arranged. The ring is attached to one of the thermal screens surrounding the reactor core, preferably one proximate to the nuclear reactor vessel. The spacing at which the cylindrical rods are arranged in the row is less than the spacing between the assemblies.

Integrated Vibration Measurement and Analysis System

A vibration data collection system performs an integration or differentiation process on incoming digitized vibration data in real time. The system uses a digital Infinite Impulse Response (IIR) filter running at the input data rate to provide the integration or differentiation function. With this approach, the system reduces hardware complexity and data storage requirements. Also, the system provides the ability to directly integrate or differentiate stored time waveforms without resorting to FFT processing methods.

Environmental parameter sensor

An environmental parameter sensor for a mobile device is described comprising a first acoustic transducer; a second acoustic transducer arranged at a predetermined distance from the first acoustic transducer; a controller coupled to the first acoustic transducer and the second acoustic transducer; wherein the controller is configured to determine at least one of a time-of-flight value and an attenuation value of an acoustic signal between the first acoustic transducer and the second acoustic transducer and to determine at least one environmental parameter from the at least one of the time-of-flight value and the attenuation value The environmental parameter sensor may determine environmental parameters such as temperature, wind speed, and humidity from acoustic measurements.

Method and Apparatus for Determining Kinematic Viscosity Through the Transmission and Reception of Ultrasonic Energy

An apparatus for determining a fluid's kinematic viscosity from ultrasonic energy that has passed through the fluid of unknown viscosity along an acoustic path of known length. A computer of the apparatus determines a characteristic frequency of a received electrical signal associated with the ultrasonic energy and measures the fluid's velocity of sound. The kinematic viscosity of the fluid is determined by the computer on a continuous basis based on the characteristic frequency and the sound velocity. A method for determining a fluid's kinematic viscosity. 1. An apparatus for determining a fluid's kinematic viscosity comprising:a transmitter and a transmitting transducer capable of converting a single pulse from the transmitter into ultrasonic energy;a receiving transducer which converts some of the ultrasonic energy that has passed through a fluid of unknown viscosity into an electrical signal, the ultrasonic energy created by the transmitting transducer follows an acoustic path which is made to pass through the fluid of unknown viscosity along a path of known length; anda computer which determines a characteristic frequency of a received electrical signal and which determines kinematic viscosity of the fluid based on the characteristic frequency, where the kinematic viscosity is formed from a fluid's bulk viscosity and shear viscosity, wherein the fluid's bulk viscosity has a fixed relationship with the fluid's shear viscosity.2. The apparatus of wherein the fluid is flowing.3. A method for determining a fluid's kinematic viscosity comprising the steps of:triggering a transmitter which generates an electrical transmit pulse;commencing counting of timing pulses from a digital clock simultaneous with a transmit pulse transmission;applying the transmit pulse via electrical cables to an ultrasonic transmitting transducer;causing the transmitting transducer with the transmit pulse to produce an ultrasonic pressure pulse, the ultrasonic transmitting transducer is ...

METHOD FOR DETECTING TEMPORALLY VARYING THERMOMECHANICAL STRESSES AND/OR STRESS GRADIENTS OVER THE WALL THICKNESS OF METAL BODIES

The present invention relates to a method for detecting temporally varying thermomechanical stresses and/or stress gradients over the wall thickness of metal bodies, in particular pipelines. In the method, the temperature on the outer surface of the body is measured in order to determine a temperature progression and stress progression therefrom. In addition, electromagnetic ultrasonic transducers are used at at least one measuring point on the outer surface in order to determine the progression of the stresses and/or stress gradients over time over the wall thickness of the body in conjunction with the result of the temperature measurement. The method allows the fatigue monitoring of pipelines even in the event of rapid stress changes. 1. A method for detecting temporally varying thermomechanical stresses and/or stress gradients over the wall thickness of metal bodies , in particular pipelines , in which a temperature is measured at at least one measurement point on an outer surface of the body and additional measurements are carried out using electromagnetic ultrasound transducers in the region of the measurement point to determine the stresses and/or stress gradients over the wall thickness of the body via the measured temperature from the additional measurements ,wherein a temperature curve between an inner surface and the outer surface is ascertained from the measured temperature and is used for the determination of the stresses and/or stress gradients over the wall thickness of the body from the additional measurements.2. The method as claimed in claim 1 ,characterized in that ultrasound runtime, amplitude, and/or eddy current impedance measurements are carried out using the electromagnetic ultrasound transducers, wherein the stresses and/or stress gradients are determined by analyzing the ultrasound runtime, amplitude, and/or eddy current impedance measurements in conjunction with the measured temperature or the ascertained temperature curve.3. The method as ...

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS

There is used an object information acquiring apparatus including a laser resonator configured to include two reflection bodies and a Q switch provided between the two reflection bodies and determining a Q value based on a voltage to be applied, an excitation section configured to optically excite a laser medium, a detector configured to detect light output from one of the reflection bodies, a controller configured to control the laser resonator and determine a value of the voltage based on a detection result of the detector and applies the voltage to the Q switch, a receiver configured to receive an acoustic wave propagating from an object based on irradiation of the object with laser light output from one of the reflection bodies, and an acquisition section configured to acquire information on the object based on a reception result of the receiver. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus comprising:a laser resonator configured to include two reflection bodies and a Q switch provided between the two reflection bodies and determining a Q value based on a voltage to be applied;an excitation section configured to optically excite a laser medium;a detector configured to detect light output from one of the reflection bodies;a controller configured to control the laser resonator and determine a value of the voltage based on a detection result of the detector and applies the voltage to the Q switch;a receiver configured to receive an acoustic wave propagating from an object based on irradiation of the object with laser light output from one of the reflection bodies; andan acquisition section configured to acquire information relate to the object based on a reception result of the receiver.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a branch optical element configured to be provided at a stage prior to the detector and guides part of the laser light output from one of the reflection bodies to the detector claim 1 , ...

ULTRASONIC INSPECTION DEVICE AND ULTRASONIC INSPECTION METHOD

An ultrasonic inspection device includes a signal generator configured to generate a square wave burst signal, an ultrasonic wave transmitter configured to drive a probe according to the square wave burst signal output from the signal generator and transmit ultrasonic waves toward an inspection subject, an ultrasonic wave receiver configured to receive the ultrasonic waves transmitted toward the inspection subject and propagated through the inspection subject, and a defect determinator configured to determine the presence or absence of a defect in the inspection subject based on a signal from the ultrasonic wave receiver, wherein the square wave burst signal has square waves that continuously alternate due to positive voltages and negative voltages relative to a ground. 1. An ultrasonic inspection device comprising:a signal generator configured to generate a square wave burst signal;an ultrasonic wave transmitter configured to drive a probe according to the square wave burst signal output from the signal generator and transmit ultrasonic waves toward an inspection subject;an ultrasonic wave receiver configured to receive the ultrasonic waves transmitted toward the inspection subject and propagated through the inspection subject; anda defect determinator configured to determine a presence or absence of a defect in the inspection subject based on a signal from the ultrasonic wave receiver,wherein the square wave burst signal has square waves that continuously alternate due to positive voltages and negative voltages relative to a ground.2. The ultrasonic inspection device according to claim 1 , wherein the signal generator includes a pulse generator configured to generate pulse signals which are continuous in a designated period claim 1 , a high voltage generator configured to generate a positive voltage and a negative voltage equal to a burst voltage of the square wave burst signal claim 1 , a gate configured to alternately switch the positive and negative voltages to ...

AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS

An air-conditioning apparatus makes it possible to detect the presence or absence of a biofilm without the influence of water surface. The air-conditioning apparatus performs at least cooling operation or humidifying operation. The air-conditioning apparatus includes a drain pan to receive water, a draining unit to drain water received in the drain pan, and a detection unit to detect a biofilm formed in the drain pan. The detection unit performs the detection of the biofilm in a state in which draining of water from the drain pan is complete. 1. An air-conditioning apparatus configured to perform at least cooling operation or humidifying operation , the air-conditioning apparatus comprising:a drain pan configured to receive water;a draining unit configured to drain water received in the drain pan; anda detection unit configured to detect a biofilm formed in the drain pan,the detection unit being configured to perform detection of the biofilm in a state in which draining of water from the drain pan is complete.2. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 ,being configured to complete drainage of water from the drain pan is complete when a predetermined period of time elapses after the cooling operation or humidifying operation ends.3. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 , further comprisinga water level sensor configured to detect a level of water received in the drain pan,the air-conditioning apparatus being configured to complete drainage of water from the drain pan when a water level detected by the water level sensor is zero or approximately equal to zero.4. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 , an ultrasound transmitter configured to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and', 'an ultrasound detector configured to detect the ultrasonic wave, and, 'wherein the detection unit includes'}wherein the ultrasound transmitter transmits the ultrasonic wave in a state in which drainage of water is complete.5. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 ,wherein the ...

REFRIGERATOR AND CONTROLLING METHOD THEREOF

A refrigerator including a compressor, a condenser, and an expansion unit that constitute a refrigeration cycle, an evaporator that evaporates a refrigerant that has passed through the expansion unit, a heating unit that provides heat for defrosting the evaporator, and a frost sensor unit that is provided at one side of the evaporator to sense the amount of frost on the evaporator, the frost sensor unit including a sound-source transmitting unit that generates a sound-source of a first volume to the evaporator, and a sound-source receiving unit that receives a sound-source of a second volume formed after the sound-source transmitted by the sound-source transmitting unit reflects from or passes through the evaporator, and a controller that controls the heating unit to generate heat, when the difference between the first volume and the second volume reaches a predetermined value. 1. A refrigerator , comprising:an inner case having a storage chamber;a cover plate provided at a rear portion of the inner case, wherein the storage chamber is formed at a front side of the cover plate;an evaporator that is provided in a space formed at a rear side of the cover plate, the evaporator including a refrigerant pipe and cooling fins;a heater that provides heat for defrosting the evaporator, the heater provided at a side of the refrigerant pipe; and a sound-source transmitter that generates a sound-source of a first volume to the evaporator; and', 'a sound-source receiver that receives a sound-source of a second volume formed after the sound-source transmitted by the sound-source transmitter reflects from or passes through the evaporator, and', 'a controller that controls the heater to generate heat, when the difference between the first volume and the second volume reaches a predetermined value., 'a frost sensor that is configured to sense an amount of frost on the evaporator, the frost sensor being provided in the space formed at the rear side of the cover plate, the frost ...

Gas concentration measurement apparatus

In order to provide a gas concentration measurement apparatus that suppresses any change in the temperature of an optical fiber, and also makes it difficult for any effects to appear in the measurement accuracy due to air from the surrounding environment penetrating the optical path of the measurement light while using only a simple structure and without causing any excessive energy consumption there are provided a first sealing component provided between an incident surface of a gas cell and a first end surface that is formed at a periphery of an emission aperture of a light-emitting unit so as to enclose the periphery of the emission aperture, and a second sealing component provided between an emission surface of the gas cell and a second end surface that is formed at a periphery of an incident aperture of a light-receiving unit so as to enclose the periphery of the incident aperture.

PIEZOELECTRIC PACKAGE-INTEGRATED CHEMICAL SPECIES-SENSITIVE RESONANT DEVICES

Embodiments of the invention include a chemical species-sensitive device that includes an input transducer to receive input signals, a base structure that is coupled to the input transducer and positioned in proximity to a cavity of an organic substrate, a chemically sensitive functionalization material attached to the base structure, and an output transducer to generate output signals. For a chemical sensing functionality, a desired chemical species attaches to the chemically sensitive functionalization material which causes a change in mass of the base structure and this change in mass causes a change in a mechanical resonant frequency of the chemical species-sensitive device. 1. A chemical species-sensitive device , comprising:an input transducer to receive input signals;a base structure that is coupled to the input transducer and positioned in proximity to a cavity of an organic substrate;a chemically sensitive functionalization material attached to the base structure; andan output transducer to generate output signals, wherein for a chemical sensing functionality a desired chemical species attaches to the chemically sensitive functionalization material which causes a change in mass of the base structure and this change in mass causes a change in a mechanical resonant frequency of the device.2. The chemical species-sensitive device of claim 1 , wherein the chemical species-sensitive device is integrated with the organic substrate which is fabricated using panel level processing.3. The chemical species-sensitive device of claim 2 , wherein the base structure is positioned above the cavity of the organic substrate to allow vibrations of the base structure.4. The chemical species-sensitive device of claim 1 , wherein the output signals of the output transducer are monitored to determine the change in the mechanical resonant frequency of the device and this change in the mechanical resonant frequency correlates with an amount of the desired chemical species in an ...

PHOTO-ACOUSTIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR NON-CONTACT MEASUREMENT OF THIN LAYERS

A measuring device for non-mechanical-contact measurement of a layer, the measuring device including a light source operative to generate a pulse adapted to interact with the layer so as to generate a thermal wave in a gas medium present adjacent the layer. The thermal wave causes an acoustic signal to be generated. The measuring device further includes a detector adapted to detect a first signal responsive to the acoustic signal, the detector not being in mechanical contact with the layer. The first signal is representative of the measured layer. 120-. (canceled)21. An apparatus , comprising: an acoustic detector spaced apart from the moving layer; and', 'a light exit port spaced apart from the moving layer, wherein the light exit port is optically couplable to a light source to convey an optical pulse through the gas medium and towards the moving layer to generate a thermal wave in the gas medium adjacent the moving layer that is sufficient to generate an acoustic signal detectable by the acoustic detector;, 'a measurement head positionable opposite a gas medium from a moving layer for measuring the moving layer, the measurement head comprisingwherein the light exit port is rigidly fixed to the measurement head, and wherein the acoustic detector is rigidly fixed to the measurement head at a distance from the light exit port.22. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the light exit port is rigidly fixed to the measurement head such that the optical pulse is directed towards the moving layer at an angle that is greater than 80° and less than 90° with respect to a surface of the moving layer.23. The apparatus of claim 22 , wherein the angle is greater than 86°.24. The apparatus of claim 21 , further comprising:an optical subsection containing the light source; anda flexible optical fiber cable optically coupling the light exit port and the optical subsection.25. The apparatus of claim 24 , wherein the optical subsection is located remote from the measurement head.26. ...

AUTOMATIC TRANSDUCER OPERATING PARAMETER SELECTION

Operating parameters are selected for inspecting a structure. Selecting the operating parameters includes exciting broadband ultrasonic guided waves in a multilayered structure, acquiring data corresponding to the sensed broadband ultrasonic guided waves in the multilayered structure, selecting one or more narrow frequency bands based on the acquired data, and inspecting the multilayered structure using ultrasonic guided waves in the one or more narrow frequency bands. In some examples, the data is acquired by an inspection tool capable of sensing the broadband ultrasonic guided waves in the multilayered structure. 1. A method of selecting operating parameters for inspecting a structure , the method comprising:exciting broadband ultrasonic guided waves in a multilayered structure;acquiring, by an inspection tool capable of sensing the broadband ultrasonic guided waves in the multilayered structure, data corresponding to the sensed broadband ultrasonic guided waves in the multilayered structure;selecting one or more narrow frequency bands based on the acquired data; andinspecting the multilayered structure using ultrasonic guided waves in the one or more narrow frequency bands.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the multilayered structure comprises a coated metallic pipe having one or more of a varying wall thickness claim 1 , a varying coating thickness claim 1 , or a varying quality.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the inspection tool is an electromagnetic acoustic transducer based inline inspection tool.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more narrow frequency bands comprise a long pulse width with a plurality of cycles.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic guided waves in the one or more narrow frequency bands have a higher intensity than the broadband ultrasonic guided waves.6. A system of selecting operating parameters for inspecting a structure claim 1 , the system comprising:an ultrasonic transmitter configured to excite broadband ...

ANALYTICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUNDS IN WATER

An analytical system and method for detecting volatile organic chemicals in water including a coated SAW detector that provides for improved reduction of moisture at the coating of the SAW detector. A stabilized SAW sensitivity and long lasting calibration is achieved. The analytical system further includes an improved sample vessel and sparger that allow for easy grab sample analysis, while also providing efficient purging of the volatile organic compounds from the water sample. In addition, an improved preconcentrator provides a stabilized sorbent bed. 1. A system for detecting organic compounds in water including:a preconcentrator configured to collect the organic compounds;a gas chromatograph column configured to separate the organic compounds as desorbed from the preconcentrator;a surface acoustic wave detector configured to detect the mass of the organic compounds separated by the gas chromatograph;a housing that houses the preconcentrator, the gas chromatograph column, and the surface acoustic wave detector; anda sample vessel removably attached to the housing configured to contain a water sample from which the organic compounds are purged.2. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the sample vessel is configured to contain a water sample of about 40 mL.3. A system according to claim 1 , wherein a level of the water sample in the sample vessel ranges from about 2.5 inches to about 4 inches claim 1 , and the distance between a fill line of the water sample and the top end of the sample vessel ranges from about 3.5 inches to about 5 inches.4. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the sample vessel includes a retaining member.5. A system according to claim 4 , wherein the retaining member includes threads.6. A system according to claim 4 , wherein the housing includes a complimentary retaining member.7. A system according to claim 6 , wherein the complimentary retaining member is a retaining tube nut.8. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the sample vessel ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR NON-INTRUSIVE PIPELINE TESTING

A method for non-intrusive pipeline testing involves constructing the pipeline at a construction location that is above ground, affixing an optical fiber along a surface of a length of the pipeline that is at the construction location, measuring dynamic strain experienced by the length of the pipeline by performing optical interferometry using the optical fiber, and moving the length of the pipeline from the construction location to a different installation location. The optical fiber includes at least one pair of fiber Bragg gratings (“FBGs”) tuned to reflect substantially identical wavelengths with a segment of the optical fiber extending between the FBGs. 1. A method for non-intrusive pipeline testing , the method comprising:(a) constructing the pipeline at a construction location that is above ground;(b) affixing an optical fiber along a surface of a length of the pipeline that is at the construction location, wherein the optical fiber comprises at least one pair of fiber Bragg gratings (“FBGs”) tuned to reflect substantially identical wavelengths with a segment of the optical fiber extending between the FBGs;(c) measuring dynamic strain experienced by the length of the pipeline by performing optical interferometry using the optical fiber; and(d) moving the length of the pipeline from the construction location to a different installation location.2. The method of wherein the installation location comprises a trench.3. The method of or further comprising prior to moving the length of the pipeline claim 1 , removing the optical fiber from the length of the pipeline.4. The method of wherein the fiber remains affixed to the length of the pipeline after the length of the pipeline is moved to the installation location.5. The method of any one of to wherein the fiber extends substantially linearly along the length of the pipeline.6. The method of any one of to wherein the fiber is helically wrapped around the pipeline.7. The method of or wherein the fiber is clamped to ...

ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTOR AND ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION METHOD

An ultrasonic flaw detector for performing flaw detection of a circumferential defect on a surface of a steel pipe is configured such that only a surface wave probe configured to transmit a surface wave to the surface of the steel pipe is provided as a probe for transmitting an ultrasonic wave to the steel pipe and a position of the surface wave probe is fixed in a state where a surface wave transmission direction of the surface wave probe is in parallel with a pipe axis direction of the steel pipe. 1. An ultrasonic flaw detector for performing flaw detection of a circumferential defect on a surface of a steel pipe ,wherein only a surface wave probe configured to transmit a surface wave to the surface of the steel pipe is provided as a probe for transmitting an ultrasonic wave to the steel pipe, andwherein a position of the surface wave probe is fixed in a state where a surface wave transmission direction of the surface wave probe is in parallel with a pipe axis direction of the steel pipe.2. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein a probe moving mechanism configured to move the surface wave probe along the pipe axis direction of the steel pipe is provided.3. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein a wedge having a shape in close contact with the surface of the steel pipe is attached to the surface wave probe.4. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein the surface wave probe is a transmission and reception integral type surface wave probe.5. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein a dry coupling mode flaw detection is performed.6. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein a defect depth of the circumferential defect is 0.05 mm or more.7. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein a defect length of the circumferential defect is 0.1 mm or more.8. The ultrasonic flaw detector according to claim 1 ,wherein an outside diameter of the steel pipe is 2000 mm or less. ...

BANDWIDTH-SELECTABLE ACOUSTIC EMISSION APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRANSMITTING TIME-AVERAGED SIGNAL DATA

Bandwidth-selectable acoustic emission apparatus and methods for transmitting time-averaged signal data are described. An example apparatus includes an integrated external preamplifier device having a bandwidth-selectable analog filter and a data extractor. The integrated external preamplifier device is to receive an analog acoustic emission signal generated via an acoustic emission sensor operatively coupled to the integrated external preamplifier device. The bandwidth-selectable analog filter is to filter the analog acoustic emission signal based on a software-programmed bandwidth to generate a filtered analog acoustic emission signal. The data extractor is to extract a time-averaged analog signal from the filtered analog acoustic emission signal, and to transmit the time-averaged analog signal from the integrated external preamplifier device to an external data acquisition system. 1. An apparatus , comprising:an integrated external preamplifier device including a bandwidth-selectable analog filter and a data extractor, the integrated external preamplifier device to receive an analog acoustic emission signal generated via an acoustic emission sensor operatively coupled to the integrated external preamplifier device, the bandwidth-selectable analog filter to filter the analog acoustic emission signal based on a software-programmed bandwidth to generate a filtered analog acoustic emission signal, the data extractor to extract a time-averaged analog signal from the filtered analog acoustic emission signal, the data extractor to transmit the time-averaged analog signal from the integrated external preamplifier device to an external data acquisition system.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , where the integrated external preamplifier device further includes a preamplifier claim 1 , the bandwidth-selectable analog filter being integrated within the preamplifier.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the integrated external preamplifier device further includes a preamplifier to ...

INSPECTION SYSTEM, CONTROL UNIT, CONTROL METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM

According to one embodiment, an inspection system includes a probe and a controller. The probe includes a plurality of ultrasonic sensors arranged in a first direction. The probe contacts a weld portion by moving in a second direction crossing the first direction. Each of the plurality of ultrasonic sensors transmits an ultrasonic wave toward the weld portion and receives a reflected wave. The controller detects a joint and a non-joint at a plurality of points along the first direction of the weld portion based on the plurality of reflected waves. The controller adjusts an angle of the probe around a third direction based on a number of the joints or the non-joints detected for the plurality of points. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and crosses the second direction. 1. An inspection system , comprising:a probe including a plurality of ultrasonic sensors arranged in a first direction, the probe contacting a weld portion by moving in a second direction crossing the first direction, each of the plurality of ultrasonic sensors transmitting an ultrasonic wave toward the weld portion and receiving a reflected wave; anda controller,the controller detecting a joint and a non-joint at a plurality of points along the first direction of the weld portion based on the plurality of reflected waves,the controller adjusting an angle of the probe around a third direction based on a number of the joints or the non-joints detected for the plurality of points, the third direction being perpendicular to the first direction and crossing the second direction.2. The inspection system according to claim 1 , wherein the controller detects the number for the plurality of points at each angle while changing the angle around the third direction of the probe claim 1 , and sets the angle around the third direction of the probe based on a result of the detecting.3. The inspection system according to claim 2 , wherein the controller sets claim 2 , as the angle around ...

FLUID CONSUMPTION METER WITH NOISE SENSOR

A consumption meter, e.g. a water or heat meter, for measuring a flow rate of a fluid supplied in a flow tube. First and second ultrasonic transducers are arranged at the flow tube for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid and operated by a flow measurement sub-circuit for generating a signal indicative of the flow rate of the fluid. A noise measurement sub-circuit operates a sensor arranged at the flow tube for detection of acoustic signals of the flow tube, and being arranged to generate a signal indicative of a noise level of the flow tube accordingly. This sensor may comprise a separate transducer, or the sensor may be constituted by one or both of the first and second ultrasonic transducers. The consumption meter may communicate data representative of the noise level via a communication module along with data consumed amount of water, heat etc. Such consumer noise level measurement at the consumer site allows collection of noise level data to assist in locating fluid leakages in a fluid supply pipe system. 1. A consumption meter arranged to measure a flow rate of a fluid , the consumption meter comprising:a flow tube with a through-going opening for passage of the fluid between an inlet and an outlet,first and second ultrasonic transducers arranged externally relative to the flow tube for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid,a control circuit comprising a flow measurement sub-circuit arranged for operating the first and second ultrasonic transducers, and being arranged to generate a signal indicative of the flow rate of the fluid from the transmitted and received ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid,wherein the control circuit further comprises a noise measurement sub-circuit, arranged for generating a signal indicative of a noise level of the flow tube or of the fluid therein by operating at least one of the first and second ultrasonic transducers to detect acoustic ...

ACOUSTIC SENSING SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS

Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for touch, force and/or thermal sensing by an ultrasonic transceiver chip. In some aspects, an ultrasonic transceiver sensor device includes a semiconductor substrate; a CMOS layer attached to the substrate; an array of piezoelectric transducers coupled to the CMOS layer to generate ultrasonic pulses; and a contact layer attached to the substrate on a side opposite the substrate for providing a surface for contact with an object, where an ultrasonic pulse generated by a piezoelectric transducer propagates through the substrate and the contact layer, such that when the object is in contact with the surface of the contact layer, a reflected ultrasonic pulse is produced and propagates through the contact layer and the substrate to be received at the array of piezoelectric transducers, and the CMOS layer receive and process outputs from the piezoelectric transducers produced in response to the received reflected ultrasonic pulses. 1. An ultrasonic transceiver sensor device , comprising:a substrate including a semiconductor material;a CMOS layer attached to a first side of the substrate;an array of piezoelectric transducers coupled to the CMOS layer and operable to generate ultrasonic pulses having a frequency of at least 0.5 GHz; anda contact layer attached to a second side of the substrate opposite the first side to provide a surface for contact with an object,wherein an ultrasonic pulse generated by a piezoelectric transducer of the array is directed to propagate through the substrate and the contact layer, such that when the object is in contact with the surface of the contact layer, a reflected ultrasonic pulse is produced and propagates through the contact layer and the substrate to be received at the array of piezoelectric transducers, wherein CMOS elements of the CMOS layer in communication with the array of piezoelectric transducers are operable to receive and process outputs from the piezoelectric transducers produced ...

CRACK MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND METHOD

According to an exemplary embodiment in the present disclosure, a crack measurement device and a crack measurement method are provided. The crack measurement device according to an exemplary embodiment in the present disclosure includes: an ultrasonic sensor irradiating a first ultrasonic wave in a direction perpendicular to a bottom surface of an object to be inspected, so as to be focused on the bottom surface of the object to be inspected and receiving a reflected wave, reflected from the bottom surface of the object to be inspected; and a monitoring unit providing information on a crack on the basis of intensity of the reflected wave. 1. A crack measurement device comprising:an ultrasonic sensor irradiating a first ultrasonic wave in a direction perpendicular to a bottom surface of an object to be inspected, so as to be focused on the bottom surface of the object to be inspected, receiving a reflected wave of the first ultrasonic wave reflected from the bottom surface of the object to be inspected, transmitting a second ultrasonic wave in a direction forming an acute angle with respect to the bottom surface of the object to be inspected, so as to be diffused toward the bottom surface of the object to be inspected, and receiving a diffracted wave of the second ultrasonic wave diffracted by a crack; anda monitoring unit extracting and providing information on whether or not the crack exists and a position of the crack on the basis of intensity of the reflected wave and extracting and providing information on a height of the crack using a time at which the diffracted wave is received.2. The crack measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic sensor includes:a transmitter including a plurality of piezoelectric elements disposed in a concave structure and irradiating the first ultrasonic wave;a receiver receiving the reflected wave; anda partition wall disposed between the transmitter and the receiver and having sound absorption properties.3. The crack ...

Millimeter wave holographic three-dimensional imaging detection system and method

This invention provides millimeter wave holographic 3D imaging detection system, which comprises: a transmitting antenna configured to transmit a millimeter wave transmitting signal to an object to be detected; a receiving antenna configured to receive an echo signal from the object to be detected; a millimeter wave transceiving module configured to generate the millimeter wave transmitting signal transmitted to the object to be detected and receive and process the echo signal from the receiving antenna; a scanning device configured to support the millimeter wave transceiving module, the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna, and move the millimeter transceiving module, the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna along a preset track, so as to scan the object to be detected with millimeter waves; a data gathering and processing module configured to gather and process the echo signal output from the millimeter wave transceiving module to generate a 3D image of the object to be detected; and an image display unit configured to display the 3D image generated by the data gathering and processing module. Besides, this invention also provides a method of millimeter wave holographic 3D imaging detection on an object to be detected using the above system thereof. The technical solution of this invention has the advantages of simple structure, high resolution, short imaging time, and larger field of view.

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR INSPECTING A SURFACE

A system includes an inspection robot having a plurality of input sensors, the plurality of input sensors distributed horizontally relative to an inspection surface and configured to provide inspection data of the inspection surface at selected horizontal positions; a controller, comprising: a position definition circuit structured to determine an inspection robot position of the inspection robot on the inspection surface; a data positioning circuit structured to interpret the inspection data, and to correlate the inspection data to the inspection robot position on the inspection surface; and wherein the data positioning circuit is further structured to determine position informed inspection data in response to the correlating of the inspection data with the inspection robot position. 1an inspection robot having a plurality of input sensors, the plurality of input sensors distributed horizontally relative to an inspection surface and configured to provide inspection data of the inspection surface at selected horizontal positions; a position definition circuit structured to determine an inspection robot position of the inspection robot on the inspection surface;', 'a data positioning circuit structured to interpret the inspection data, and to correlate the inspection data to the inspection robot position on the inspection surface; and', 'wherein the data positioning circuit is further structured to determine position informed inspection data in response to the correlating of the inspection data with the inspection robot position., 'a controller, comprising. A system, comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/997,569 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01-C11), filed Jun. 4, 2018, and entitled “SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR INSPECTING A SURFACE.”U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/997,569 (Attorney Docket No. GROB-0003-U01-C11) claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/596,737 ( ...

Measurement System

A system for determining the position of a piston in a subsea accumulator, comprising: a sensor module comprising: a housing; an ultrasonic transducer facing the piston and configured to transmit an ultrasonic pulse through a fluid medium toward a surface of the piston; a pressure sensor configured to; and a temperature sensor; a control connector coupled to the sensor module capable of providing hardware and software functions to measure transit time of the ultrasonic signal from the ultrasonic transducer to the surface of the piston, comprising electronics for controlling the ultrasonic transducer, pressure sensor and temperature sensor; wherein the transit times of the ultrasonic signals across the fluid medium are measured and combined with a computed velocity of sound as a function of temperature/pressure to determine the distance between the ultrasonic transducer and the surface of the piston. 1. A measurement system comprising:an accumulator including an element movable within an internal volume of the accumulator; an ultrasonic transducer configured to transmit an ultrasonic signal through a fluid medium in the internal volume toward a surface of the movable element;', 'a pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure of the fluid medium; and', 'a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature of the fluid medium;, 'a sensor module comprisinga control connector coupled to the sensor module, capable of providing hardware and software functions to measure transit time of the ultrasonic signal through the accumulator to determine the location of the movable element within the accumulator.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the transit time of the ultrasonic signal across the fluid medium is measured and combined with a computed velocity of sound as a function of the temperature and pressure of the fluid medium.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the location of the movable element within the accumulator is indicative of remaining volume of the fluid ...

Apparatus and method for photoacoustic imaging

A photoacoustic imaging apparatus includes a signal processor. The signal processor includes an adding unit configured to add received signals obtained by acoustic wave detecting devices to obtain a summed signal, a normalizing unit configured to normalize the summed signal for each acoustic wave detecting device with reference to an amplitude value in the received signal in the acoustic wave detecting device at the time when a maximum amplitude value in the summed signal is obtained to obtain a normalized signal, a reducing unit configured to subtract the normalized signal from the received signal for each acoustic wave detecting device to obtain a reduced signal in which the amplitude value in the received signal at the time when the maximum amplitude value in the summed signal is obtained is reduced, and an imaging unit configured to generate image data using the reduced signals.

System and a method of inspecting a rotary part to be monitored that is arranged in a mechanical member

A system and method for inspecting a part to be monitored that is arranged inside a mechanical member, said part to be monitored including a plane wall and a curved wall presenting an angle between them. The system comprises a probe endoscope ( 20 ) carrying a head ( 30 ), said head ( 30 ) presenting a plane face ( 31 ) that is suitable for being pressed against said plane wall, said head ( 30 ) having an ultrasound probe ( 35 ) and at least one magnet ( 36 ) flush with said plane face ( 31 ), said head ( 30 ) having a curved face ( 32 ) that is perpendicular to the plane face ( 31 ) and that matches the shape of the curved wall of the part to be monitored, the plane face ( 31 ) and the curved face ( 32 ) forming an L-shaped structure that is suitable for being held against the part to be monitored via each magnet ( 36 ), while allowing said part to be monitored to rotate relative to said head ( 30 ).

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVE PULSE MEASURING DEVICE AND METHOD, AND APPLICATION DEVICE USING THE SAME

An electromagnetic wave pulse measuring device, includes an elastic vibration wave generating section which irradiates a predetermined area of a sample with an elastic vibration wave, an electromagnetic wave pulse generating section which irradiates the predetermined area, which is irradiated with the elastic vibration wave, with an electromagnetic wave pulse, and an electromagnetic wave pulse detecting section which measures a waveform of the electromagnetic wave pulse modulated in the predetermined area by the elastic vibration wave. The timing at which the electromagnetic wave pulse detecting section measures the waveform of the electromagnetic wave pulse is a timing at which a phase angle of the elastic vibration wave has a predetermined value when the elastic vibration wave generating section generates the elastic vibration wave. 1. An electromagnetic wave pulse measuring device for acquiring information on a sample using time-domain spectroscopy comprising:an elastic vibration wave generating section which irradiates the sample with an elastic vibration wave;an electromagnetic wave pulse generating section which irradiates the sample with an electromagnetic wave pulse; andan electromagnetic wave pulse detecting section which measures a time waveform of the electromagnetic wave pulse modulated by the sample,wherein the electromagnetic wave pulse detecting section and the elastic vibration wave generating section are configured such the electromagnetic wave pulse detecting section measures the time waveform of the electromagnetic wave pulse at a timing when the elastic vibration wave generating section generates the elastic vibration wave with a phase angle of a predetermined value.2. The electromagnetic wave pulse measuring device according to claim 1 , wherein a repetition frequency of the electromagnetic wave pulse with which the sample is irradiated is a fraction of a natural number of the frequency of the elastic vibration wave.3. The electromagnetic wave ...

Method for monitoring a combustor

A method for monitoring a combustor comprising: measuring several times a distance between a first wall of the combustor and either a second wall of the combustor or a sensor of the combustor by the sensor, and concluding from a variation in the distances a formation of deposit on the first and/or second wall and/or sensor, and/or a temperature change within the combustor, and/or a pressure change within the combustor.