DETERMINATION OF RESERVOIR HETEROGENEITY

Methods for determining reservoir characteristics of a well can include receiving a first core from the well; performing an experiment to determine the wave velocity associated with a first direction of the first core, the experiment including: transmitting an ultrasonic wave through the first core in the first direction; receiving the transmitted ultrasonic wave; and determining a directional wave velocity of the first core based on the transmitted ultrasonic wave and the received transmitted ultrasonic wave, wherein the directional wave velocity represents a wave velocity along the first direction; rotating the first core about a longitudinal axis of the first core; and performing the experiment along a second direction of the first core.

Flooded member detection by means of ultrasound

A sensor system (10) for detecting if water or air is present in a hollow member, comprising a first acoustic sensor assembly mounted in a first housing (20) placed on one side of the hollow member, a second acoustic sensor assembly mounted in a second housing (30) placed on the opposite side of the hollow member relative to the first housing (20), a controller unit (40) connected to the first and/or second sensor assemblies, and where the first and second sensor assemblies and the controller unit (40) are provided with power supply. Each of the first and second sensor assemblies comprises a set of probes (60) connected to electronics for transmitting and receiving signals, and where the housings (20, 30) comprise fastening means for connecting the housings (20, 30), and thus the probes (60), to the hollow member. The controller unit (40) comprises a microcontroller, software for controlling and coordinating transmission and reception of signals between said probes (60) mounted in the first ...

METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING INTERNAL DEFECT IN PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR

Methods, apparatuses, and systems for detecting internal defects of a protective headgear are provided. An example apparatus may include a protective headgear, an actuator element integrated within the protective headgear, a sensor element integrated within the protective headgear, and a processor element electronically coupled to the actuator element and the sensor element. In some examples, the processor element is configured to cause the actuator element to generate a first ultrasonic wave, wherein the first ultrasonic wave is propagated in the protective headgear, and receive a first output from the sensor element in response to the first ultrasonic wave.

Verfahren zur zerstörungsfreien Prüfung eines Prüflings mittels Ultraschall sowie Vorrichtung hierzu

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur zerstörungsfreien Prüfung eines Prüflings 50 mittels Ultraschall unter Verwendung eines ersten und eines zweiten Ultraschallsenders 15', 15'', die dazu eingerichtet sind, gerichtete Ultraschallpulse P1, P2 in den Prüfling 50 einzuschallen. Ein Ultraschallempfänger 15', 15'' ist dazu vorgesehen, der dazu eingerichtet ist, reflektierte erste und zweite Ultraschallpulse P1, P2 zu detektieren. Das Verfahren basiert darauf, dass ein erster Ultraschallpuls P1 in den Prüfling 50 mittels des ersten Ultraschallsenders 15' eingeschallt wird sowie ein zweiter Ultraschallpuls P2 mittels des zweiten Ultraschallsenders 15''. Der erste und der zweite Ultraschallpuls P1, P2 weisen eine unterschiedliche Polarität P+ sowie P- auf und propagieren im Prüfling 50 entlang zueinander im Wesentlichen paralleler Wege S1, S2. Nach ihrer Wechselwirkung mit dem Prüfling 50 werden die reflektierten ersten und zweiten Ultraschallpulse P1, P2, P1', P2', P1'', P2'' zur Überlagerung ...

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.

光音響計測装置及びレーザ装置

레이저를 이용한 2차 전지의 진단 시스템 및 방법

... 본 기술은 레이저를 이용한 2차 전지의 진단 시스템 및 방법에 관한 것으로, 본 실시예의 구현 예에 따르면, 레이저를 이용한 초음파에 의거 공간 구획 별 2차전지의 내부 결함을 비파괴 기법으로 진단함에 따라, 기존의 배터리관리 시스템 기반의 2차 전지의 전기적 상태 진단 기술로 진단하기 어려운 내부 결함을 진단할 수 있고, 이에 안전 사고 발생율을 감소할 수 있으며, 내부 결함의 진단을 통해 건전성이 검증된 2차전지의 재사용할 수 있고, 내부 결함 검증을 통해 건전성이 검증된 폐전지를 재활용함에 따라 2차전지의 재활용율을 높일 수 있는 효과가 있다.

METHOD FOR THE NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF A TEST OBJECT BY MEANS OF ULTRASOUND AND CORRESPONDING DEVICE

The invention relates to a method for the nondestructive testing of a test object (50) by means of ultrasound using a first and a second ultrasonic transmitter (15', 15''), which transmitters are adapted to inject directed ultrasonic pulses (P1, P2) into the test object (50). An ultrasonic receiver (15', 15'') is adapted to detect reflected first and second ultrasonic pulses (P1, P2). A first ultrasonic pulse (P1) is injected into the test object (50) by means of the first ultrasonic transmitter (15') and a second ultrasonic pulse (P2) by means of the second ultrasonic transmitter (15''). The first and the second ultrasonic pulse (P1, P2) have a different polarity P+ and P- and propagate inside the test object (50) along substantially parallel paths (S1, S2). After their interaction with the test object (50), the reflected first and second ultrasonic pulses (P1, P2, P1', P2', P1", P2") are superimposed. The summarized ultrasonic pressure amplitude of the superimposed reflected first and ...

USING SOUND TO DETECT VEHICLE BODY ANOMALIES

A system for detecting vehicle body damage is disclosed. One or more ultrasonic transceivers are installed on a portion of the vehicle body and configured to transmit and receive ultrasonic sound waves. One or more controllers are coupled to the one or more ultrasonic transceivers. The one or more controllers are programmed to cause the ultrasonic transceiver to emit first ultrasonic sound waves and receive first reflected ultrasonic sound waves, store in memory first sound signature data relating to the first reflected ultrasonic sound waves, cause the ultrasonic transceiver to emit second ultrasonic sound waves and receive second ultrasonic sound waves, and determine a presence of damage on the portion of the vehicle body based on second sound signature data relating to the second reflected ultrasonic sound waves deviating from the first sound signature data.

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING INTERNAL DEFECT IN PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR

Ultrasonic testing device and method

An ultrasonic testing device that can make a robotic testing system reach the surface of a complex curved composite workpiece that is not easy to reach and perform a quality testing. By pumping a coupling liquid into the device so that the coupling liquid enters a waveguide and jets onto the surface of the workpiece, an ultrasonic wave can be transmitted in the waveguide and reach the surface of the workpiece and penetrate the workpiece, thereby achieving the purpose of quality testing of the workpiece. By providing two ultrasonic testing devices without a waveguide on both sides of a tested workpiece, respectively, and by mounting the waveguide on one side or both sides of the ultrasonic testing devices, it is possible to transmit the ultrasonic waves to the surface of the workpiece or to receive the ultrasonic waves from the surface of the workpiece.

NONDESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION USING DUAL PULSE-ECHO ULTRASONICS AND METHOD THEREFOR

A method for nondestructive inspection of a component, the method includes determining a first pulse-echo scan from a first side of a component; determining a second pulse-echo scan from a second side of the component; determining a through-transmission scan based on the, first pulse-echo scan, the second pulse-echo scan, and a model of the component, the model comprises a rigid internal structure of the component; and classifying the component based on comparing the through-transmission scan to a “gold” model.

Nondestructive inspection using dual pulse-echo ultrasonics and method therefor

A method for nondestructive inspection of a component, the method includes determining a first pulse-echo scan from a first side of a component; determining a second pulse-echo scan from a second side of the component; determining a through-transmission scan based on the first pulse-echo scan, the second pulse-echo scan, and a model of the component, the model comprises a rigid internal structure of the component; and classifying the component based on comparing the through-transmission scan to a “gold” model.

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.

Flooded member detection by means of ultrasound

A sensor system for detecting water or air in a hollow member comprises a first acoustic sensor assembly in a first housing on one side of the hollow member, a second acoustic sensor assembly in a second housing on the opposite side, a controller unit connected to the first and/or second sensor assemblies, and where the first and second sensor assemblies and the controller unit are provided with power supply. Each of the first and second sensor assemblies comprises a set of probes connected to electronics for transmitting and receiving signals, and where the housings comprise fastening means for connecting the housings and the probes to the hollow member. The controller unit comprises a microcontroller, software for controlling and coordinating transmission and reception of signals between said probes, and means for registering and logging data generated by the sensor assemblies. A method detects water or air in a hollow member.

Flooded Member Detection by Means of Ultrasound

A sensor system for detecting water or air in a hollow member comprises a first acoustic sensor assembly in a first housing on one side of the hollow member, a second acoustic sensor assembly in a second housing on the opposite side, a controller unit connected to the first and/or second sensor assemblies, and where the first and second sensor assemblies and the controller unit are provided with power supply. Each of the first and second sensor assemblies comprises a set of probes connected to electronics for transmitting and receiving signals, and where the housings comprise fastening means for connecting the housings and the probes to the hollow member. The controller unit comprises a microcontroller, software for controlling and coordinating transmission and reception of signals between said probes, and means for registering and logging data generated by the sensor assemblies. A method detects water or air in a hollow member.

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

Automatic weld flaw detector

An automatic weld flaw detector comprises a comparator for comparing the height of an echo from a detected flaw upon movement of a probe over each unit distance with a maximum echo height already known, a counting circuit adapted to work in response to the comparing action of the comparator so as to determine the distance the probe has covered, a device adapted to be actuated by the output from the comparator thereby to memorize separately the maximum value of echo height and the output at that moment from the counting circuit, and a recorder connected to the memorizing device.

METHOD, APPARATUS AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING INTERNAL DEFECT IN PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR

Methods, apparatuses, and systems for detecting internal defects of a protective headgear are provided. An example apparatus may include a protective headgear, an actuator element integrated within the protective headgear, a sensor element integrated within the protective headgear, and a processor element electronically coupled to the actuator element and the sensor element. In some examples, the processor element is configured to cause the actuator element to generate a first ultrasonic wave, wherein the first ultrasonic wave is propagated in the protective headgear, and receive a first output from the sensor element in response to the first ultrasonic wave.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ULTRASOUND INSPECTION OF WELDS, PARTICULARLY WELDS OF BLADES ON THE DISK OF A BLADED DISK

Method and device for ultrasound testing of welds, particularly for welds of blades on the blisk of a bladed disk. According to the invention, for testing element welds (6) on a body (4), forming a single-piece assembly (2) with these elements, the free end of a poly-articulated robot (12) is fitted with an ultrasound probe (24), fitted with an ultrasonic multi-element array transducer (14); the probe is inserted into the space (10) between two adjacent elements of the assembly; the probe is moved along three-dimensional trajectories along the profile of the element; sectorial electronic scanning is performed in at least two non-parallel testing planes; and ultrasound signals output by the transducer in order to test the welds are processed.

APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR THE DETECTION OF OBJECTS AND ACTIVITY WITHIN A CONTAINER

An apparatus, system, and method for the detection of contents within a container includes a plurality of transducers mounted on an exterior surface of the container. A plurality of acoustic signals is transmitted into the container, and an echo is generated when the signals contact an object. The echo is received at a transducer and a processor analyzes the echo to detect the object. Similarly, two acoustic transducers can be used to angularly transmit the signal into a container. The signal reflects off a sediment surface and is received at another acoustic transducer. The reflection signal can be used to analyze a sediment surface within the container.

NONDESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION USING DUAL PULSE-ECHO ULTRASONICS AND METHOD THEREFOR

A method for nondestructive inspection of a component, the method includes determining a first pulse-echo scan from a first side of a component; determining a second pulse-echo scan from a second side of the component; determining a through-transmission scan based on the, first pulse-echo scan, the second pulse-echo scan, and a model of the component, the model comprises a rigid internal structure of the component; and classifying the component based on comparing the through-transmission scan to a “gold” model.

PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND LASER LIGHT SOURCE

A flash lamp 32 excites a laser rod 31. A Q switch 35 which changes the loss of the optical resonator according to the voltage applied is inserted on the optical path of a pair of mirrors 33 and 34 forming the optical resonator. An optical path shutter 39 is provided on the optical path of laser emission light. In a first operation mode in which laser emission is performed, the optical path shutter 39 is opened and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is changed from a high voltage to, for example, 0 V to emit pulsed laser light after the flash lamp 32 excites the laser rod 31. In a second operation mode in which the laser emission is interrupted and waited for, the optical path shutter 39 is closed and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is, for example, 0 V.

detecção por meio de ultrassom de elemento inundado

ULTRASONIC INSPECTION

One embodiment provides a method comprising: providing a sample comprising a bulk amorphous alloy; scanning ultrasonically at least a portion of the sample to determine a parameter of the sample in the portion; and comparing the parameter to a predetermined standard to derive a property related to the sample.

Photoacoustic measurement device and laser light source

A flash lamp 32 excites a laser rod 31. A Q switch 35 which changes the loss of the optical resonator according to the voltage applied is inserted on the optical path of a pair of mirrors 33 and 34 forming the optical resonator. An optical path shutter 39 is provided on the optical path of laser emission light. In a first operation mode in which laser emission is performed, the optical path shutter 39 is opened and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is changed from a high voltage to, for example, 0 V to emit pulsed laser light after the flash lamp 32 excites the laser rod 31. In a second operation mode in which the laser emission is interrupted and waited for, the optical path shutter 39 is closed and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is, for example, 0 V.

Automatic weld flaw detector

An automatic weld flaw detector comprises a comparator for comparing the height of an echo from a detected flaw upon movement of a probe over each unit distance with a maximum echo height already known, a counting circuit adapted to work in response to the comparing action of the comparator so as to determine the distance the probe has covered, a device adapted to be actuated by the output from the comparator thereby to memorize separately the maximum value of echo height and the output at that moment from the counting circuit, and a recorder connected to the memorizing device.

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.

PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND LASER LIGHT SOURCE

A flash lamp 32 excites a laser rod 31. A Q switch 35 which changes the loss of the optical resonator according to the voltage applied is inserted on the optical path of a pair of mirrors 33 and 34 forming the optical resonator. An optical path shutter 39 is provided on the optical path of laser emission light. In a first operation mode in which laser emission is performed, the optical path shutter 39 is opened and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is changed from a high voltage to, for example, 0 V to emit pulsed laser light after the flash lamp 32 excites the laser rod 31. In a second operation mode in which the laser emission is interrupted and waited for, the optical path shutter 39 is closed and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is, for example, 0 V.

ULTRASONIC TESTING DEVICE AND METHOD

An ultrasonic testing device that can make a robotic testing system reach the surface of a complex curved composite workpiece that is not easy to reach and perform a quality testing. By pumping a coupling liquid into the device so that the coupling liquid enters a waveguide and jets onto the surface of the workpiece, an ultrasonic wave can be transmitted in the waveguide and reach the surface of the workpiece and penetrate the workpiece, thereby achieving the purpose of quality testing of the workpiece. By providing two ultrasonic testing devices without a waveguide on both sides of a tested workpiece, respectively, and by mounting the waveguide on one side or both sides of the ultrasonic testing devices, it is possible to transmit the ultrasonic waves to the surface of the workpiece or to receive the ultrasonic waves from the surface of the workpiece. 1. An ultrasonic testing device including an ultrasonic transducer provided with a step , comprising:a liquid storage chamber provided with a liquid inlet on a side thereof, the liquid inlet being communicated with a hollow body of the liquid storage chamber, wherein a head portion of the ultrasonic transducer passes through an end of the liquid storage chamber and the step is pressed against the end of the liquid storage chamber;an ultrasonic transducer gland provided with a gland circular groove on an end thereof, wherein a tail portion of the ultrasonic transducer passes through the ultrasonic transducer gland and the step is arranged in the gland circular groove;an ultrasonic transducer holder disposed at a tail portion of the ultrasonic transducer, wherein the ultrasonic transducer holder is fixedly connected with the ultrasonic transducer gland and the liquid storage chamber;a jet head provided with a jet nozzle on an end thereof, wherein the other end of the jet head is fixedly connected to and communicated with the other end of the liquid storage chamber;a liquid spoiler arranged in the liquid storage chamber ...

Apparatus, system, and method for the detection of objects and activity within a container

An apparatus, system, and method for the detection of contents within a container includes a plurality of transducers mounted on an exterior surface of the container. A plurality of acoustic signals is transmitted into the container, and an echo is generated when the signals contact an object. The echo is received at a transducer and a processor analyzes the echo to detect the object. Similarly, two acoustic transducers can be used to angularly transmit the signal into a container. The signal reflects off a sediment surface and is received at another acoustic transducer. The reflection signal can be used to analyze a sediment surface within the container.

THROUGH-TRANSMISSION ULTRASONIC TESTING APPARATUS

A testing apparatus, inspection system, and method for through-transmission ultrasonic testing. The testing apparatus includes a yoke having a support member with a pair of hinge joints, each hinge joint located on an end of the support member; a pair of arms extending from the support member having a hinge end and a pivotable transducer end, each arm being coupled to the hinge joint at the hinge end and extending to the pivotable transducer end; a pair of transducer support members disposed on each of the pivotal transducer ends; and a tension member connected to the pair of arms for aligning the pair of transducer support members during testing.

APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR INSPECTING A COMPONENT

Described herein is an apparatus for inspecting a component includes a first feature inspector with at least one wave transducer configured to inspect a first feature of the component. The first feature inspector further includes at least one displacement sensor configured to detect a displacement of the at least one wave transducer of the first feature inspector relative to the first feature of the component. The apparatus further includes a second feature inspector with at least one wave transducer configured to inspect a second feature of the component. The second feature inspector further includes at least one displacement sensor configured to detect a displacement of the at least one wave transducer of the second feature inspector relative to the second feature of the component.

Photoacoustic measurement device and laser light source

A flash lamp 32 excites a laser rod 31. A Q switch 35 which changes the loss of the optical resonator according to the voltage applied is inserted on the optical path of a pair of mirrors 33 and 34 forming the optical resonator. An optical path shutter 39 is provided on the optical path of laser emission light. In a first operation mode in which laser emission is performed, the optical path shutter 39 is opened and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is changed from a high voltage to, for example, 0 V to emit pulsed laser light after the flash lamp 32 excites the laser rod 31. In a second operation mode in which the laser emission is interrupted and waited for, the optical path shutter 39 is closed and the voltage applied to the Q switch 35 is, for example, 0 V.

Determination of reservoir heterogeneity

Methods for determining reservoir characteristics of a well can include receiving a first core from the well; performing an experiment to determine the wave velocity associated with a first direction of the first core, the experiment including: transmitting an ultrasonic wave through the first core in the first direction; receiving the transmitted ultrasonic wave; and determining a directional wave velocity of the first core based on the transmitted ultrasonic wave and the received transmitted ultrasonic wave, wherein the directional wave velocity represents a wave velocity along the first direction; rotating the first core about a longitudinal axis of the first core; and performing the experiment along a second direction of the first core.

Сканирующий акустический микроскоп

Полезная модель относится метрологии, в частности к микроскопам.Сканирующий акустический микроскоп, содержит передающий акустический элемент, включающий звукопровод, сферическую акустическую линзу, приемный акустический элемент, жидкостную ячейку, установленную между передающим и приемными элементами, а также системы сканирования исследуемого объекта и восстановления его изображения на видеоконтрольном устройстве. В области фокусировки акустической линзы установлена мезоразмерная частица с характерным размером не более поперечного размера области фокусировки и не менее λ/2, где λ - длина волны используемого излучения в среде, со скоростью звука в материале частицы относительно скорости звука в окружающей среде, лежащего в диапазоне от 0.5 до 0.83. Технический результат - повышение разрешающей способности. 1 ил. Ц 1 172340 ко РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) (11) сое за а 5% (13) о а (51) МПК ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ СО1М№ 2906 (2006.01) (12) ОПИСАНИЕ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ (21)(22) Заявка: 2017112806, 13.04.2017 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: 13.04.2017 Дата регистрации: 04.07.2017 Приоритет(ы): (22) Дата подачи заявки: 13.04.2017 (45) Опубликовано: 04.07.2017 Бюл. № 19 Адрес для переписки: 630108, г. Новосибирск, ул. Плахотного, 10, Федеральное государственное бюджетное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "Сибирский государственный университет геосистем и технологий" (СГУГиТ) (72) Автор(ы): Минин Игорь Владиленович (КО), Минин Олег Владиленович (КО) (73) Патентообладатель(и): Федеральное государственное бюджетное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "Сибирский государственный университет геосистем и технологий" (СГУГиТ) (КП) (56) Список документов, цитированных в отчете о поиске: $0 832449 АТ, 23.05.1981. Оегек С. ТБотаз, Кепе Г.. Сее, апд К. Меуеп Типеу. А БаПооп 1епз: АсочзИс зсацетиа гот а репега Ме зрБеге // Атегсап ЛТопгпа| оЁ РВуз1сз 77, 197 (2009). Ц 4028933 АТ, 14.06.1977. 9$ 4646573 АЛ, 03.03. ...

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.

Visualization of Tests on Swing Type Check Valve Using Phased Array Sequence Scanning

Computers with proper programs generate signals in phased array sequence. In pulsers with delays, signals are fed through a multiplexor into multiple water wedges attached to a valve being tested. For a sequential operation of the valves from the open to the closed position, ultrasonic signals are transmitted through fluid contained in the valve and reflected back through piezo-electric crystals to the multiplexor. By summation and merger of the signals, an image can be developed of the operation of the valve to determine if the valve is operating properly. By using multiple water wedges and pass visualization software, the operator can see exactly how the valve is functioning, which information can be stored for inspections or maintenance.

Two-dimensional virtual array probe for three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging

Provided is a 2-dimensional virtual array probe for 3-dimensional ultrasonic imaging. The probe includes: an ultrasonic transducer; a metallic probe body including an ultrasonic wave emission surface in which a plurality of wave-guides are arranged in 2-dimensional array and a ⅛ sphere-shaped recess for irregularly reflecting ultrasonic wave emitted from the ultrasonic transducer in an inside thereof; a piezoelectric sheet arranged on the ultrasonic wave emission surface to make contact with an object to be inspected and configured to pass the ultrasonic waves emitted from the probe toward the object to be inspected and output a signal by detecting the ultrasonic waves reflected from the object to be detected; and a control unit configured to control the ultrasonic transducer so that the plurality of wave-guides sequentially generate ultrasonic wave.

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.

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.

Oblique flaw detection using ultrasonic transducers

Ultrasonic transducers and methods for detecting oblique flaws in cylindrically-shaped objects using pulse-echo testing are provided. By mounting one or more transducers on a rotary tester for testing manufactured objects such as tubes and bars, offsetting each transducer horizontally from its position if it were to emit a beam that is perpendicular to the object's outer surface, and actuating the transducer so as to emit an angled beam, oblique surface flaws and internal flaws may be reliably detected without reducing inspection speed, significantly adding to transducer cross-talk, or requiring significant additional hardware or processing.

Resonance inspection-based surface defect system/method

A system and method for evaluating a part-under-test ( 120 ) is disclosed. The part-under-test ( 120 ) is excited using at least one drive frequency. A first surface acoustical wave (SAW) mode ( 206 ) is identified in the frequency response ( 200 ). A separate reference peak ( 204 ) for the identified SAW mode ( 206 ) is also identified in the frequency response ( 200 ). At least one degeneracy assessment zone ( 208 ) is evaluated for existence of a surface defect trigger condition. If a surface defect trigger condition exists, the part-under-test ( 120 ) may be rejected. Otherwise, the part-under-test ( 120 ) may be accepted.

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 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.

Non-destructive inspection systems and methods that incorporate interchangeable probes

A non-destructive inspection (NDI) device is described that includes a robotic arm, a storage device proximate the robotic arm, and a plurality of NDI probe assemblies disposed within the storage device. Each NDI probe assembly includes at least one transducer operable for NDI of a part and a tool operable as a mechanical interface between the robotic arm and the corresponding NDI probe assembly. Each NDI probe assembly is configured for a specific NDI task, for NDI of a part, and the robotic arm is operable for selectively engaging the tools and movement of the probe assemblies for the NDI of at least a portion of a part.

Ultrasonic testing device with conical array

The present application provides an ultrasonic testing device. The ultrasonic testing device may include a conical backing and an ultrasonic transducer assembly positioned on the conical backing. The ultrasonic transducer assembly may include a printed circuit substrate with a number of separate transducer elements.

Test head for testing a workpiece having an ultrasonic transducer configuration containing a plurality of ultrasonic transducers and process for producing such a test head

A test head for testing a workpiece has an ultrasonic transducer configuration with a plurality of ultrasonic transducers. The test head further contains a carrier matched to a surface contour of the workpiece, a damping layer arranged on the carrier, and a flexible conductor foil configuration, which is arranged on the damping layer and has a number of electrically separated conductor tracks which corresponds to the number of transducer elements. The transducer elements are arranged on the conductor tracks alongside one another in at least one row, and in each case are electrically contact-connected to one of the conductor tracks.

Installation for non-destructive testing, by immersion ultrasounds, of workpieces

To test transverse flanges terminating at a cylindrical wall of a workpiece, an installation includes a structure in a form of a U-shaped or C-shaped stirrup whose opposite branches carry respectively an ultrasound emitter transducer and receiver transducer, aligned with respect to one another, while leaving between them an internal space for relative passage of the flange to be tested, and whose base is mounted articulated at an extremity of a mobile control arm. The installation also includes an immersion canister including two parts assembled together by a closure mechanism, one of the parts exhibiting cutouts for engaging the transverse flange and for overlapping, with the other part, the flange up to the cylindrical wall of the workpiece.

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 ...

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 ...

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.

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.

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 ...

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. ...

PIPE SENSORS

Methods, systems, and apparatuses are provided for detecting and determining conditions of and conditions within a fluid conduit. 1. A method of measuring pressure in a pipe using a hoop stress sensor , the method comprising:measuring a resistance or strain of the hoop stress sensor;analyzing the resistance or strain of the hoop stress sensor to determine an event of a pipe; andreporting the event to an external device.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the measured resistance or strain is a change in resistance or strain over time.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the determined event is a pressure of the pipe.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprisingdetecting a pipe condition trigger; andapplying a voltage across the hoop stress sensor.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the measuring the resistance is performed continuously over a first time period.6. The method of claim 1 , further comprisingdetermining a change in the resistance or strain as compared to a first threshold resistance or stain; andwherein the analyzing further comprises analyzing the change in the resistance or strain as compared to the first threshold resistance or strain.7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:measuring a second resistance or strain of a second hoop stress sensor; andanalyzing the resistance or strain of the hoop stress sensor and the second resistance or stain of the second hoop stress sensor to determine the event of the pipe.8. A processing module comprising:a hoop stress sensor;a power source; and apply a voltage across the hoop stress sensor,', 'measure a voltage across the hoop stress sensor,', 'analyze the voltage across the hoop stress sensor to determine an event of a pipe, and', 'transmit, using the communications unit, data representative of the event to an external device., 'a controller with a communications unit, wherein the controller is electrically connected to the hoop stress sensor and the power source, and configured to9. The processing module of ...

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. ...

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 ...

ULTRASOUND BEAMFORMING SYSTEM AND METHOD BASED ON ANALOG RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY ARRAY

An ultrasound beamformer architecture performs the task of signal beamforming using a matrix of analog random access memory cells to capture, store and process instantaneous samples of analog signals from ultrasound array elements and this architecture provides significant reduction in power consumption and the size of the diagnostic ultrasound imaging system such that the hardware build upon this ultrasound beamformer architecture can be placed in one or few application specific integrated chips (ASIC) positioned next to the ultrasound array and the whole diagnostic ultrasound imaging system could fit in the handle of the ultrasonic probe while preserving most of the functionality of a cart-based system. The ultrasound beamformer architecture manipulate analog samples in the memory in the same fashion as digital memory operates that can be described as an analog store—digital read (ASDR) beamformer. The ASDR architecture provides improved signal-to-noise ratio and is scalable. 1. An Analog Store Digital Read ultrasound beamforming method for an ultrasound imaging system comprising the steps of:Providing an ultrasonic array formed of individual ultrasonic array elements configured for transmission and receiving;Dividing the individual array elements into individual channels, wherein each channel comprises at least one array element;Creating a receiving input signal for each channel from inputs received from each array element of the channel;Sampling each receiving input signal for each channel at a sampling rate and storing the sampled data in a bank of sample-hold cells which are associated with that channel, wherein the bank of sample-hold cells form an analog random access memory for the sampled receiving input signal;Selecting at least one sample-hold cell data from at least one channel for each particular output time for each beamforming instance in accordance with a beamforming algorithm;Summing all of the selected sample-hold cell data from the associated ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING AN ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER ASSEMBLY

The present invention relates to an ultrasound transducer assembly (), in particular for intravascular ultrasound systems. The ultrasound transducer assembly comprises at least one silicon substrate element () including an ultrasound transducer element () for emitting and receiving ultrasound waves and including electrical connectors for electrically connecting the transducer element. The substrate element has a top surface (), a bottom surface () and a side surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface. An isolation layer () forms the side surface for electrically isolating the substrate element. 1. An ultrasound transducer assembly for intravascular ultrasound systems , comprising:at least one silicon substrate elements including an ultrasound transducer element for emitting and receiving ultrasound waves and including electrical connectors for electrically connecting the transducer element,wherein the substrate element has a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface to each other, andwherein an isolation layer forms the side surface connecting the top surface and the bottom surface to each other for electrically isolating the substrate elements from each other.2. An ultrasound transducer assembly as claimed in claim 1 , comprising a plurality of silicon substrate elements separated from each other and a flexible connection layer for flexibly connecting the substrate elements to each other.3. An ultrasound transducer assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a top isolation layer is formed at the top surface for isolating the silicon substrate element.4. An ultrasound transducer assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a bottom isolation layer is formed at the bottom surface for isolating the silicon substrate element.5. An ultrasound transducer assembly as claimed in claim 2 , wherein an electrical connection pad is connected to the flexible connection layer for electrically connecting the ...

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.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ULTRASONIC DETECTING OF MECHANICAL MEMBER BASED ON MAGNETIC FLUID COUPLING

A device and a method for ultrasonic detecting a mechanical member based on magnetic fluid coupling. The device comprises a magnetic field generating apparatus, magnetic fluid and an ultrasonic probe. The magnetic field generating apparatus has a cylindrical structure, into which the magnetic fluid is injected, where an upper portion of the apparatus is provided with the ultrasonic probe a front end that vertically extends into a liquid level of the magnetic fluid, and a bottom portion of the apparatus covers a detected position of a member under detection. The magnetic fluid at least contains magnetic suspension particles and oil-based or water-based liquid. With the device and the method, the ultrasonic probe is coupled with the member under detection to realize ultrasonic detecting of the service stress of the member under detection. 1. A device for ultrasonic detecting a mechanical member based on magnetic fluid coupling , comprising a magnetic field generating apparatus , magnetic fluid and an ultrasonic probe;the magnetic field generating apparatus has a cylindrical structure, into which the magnetic fluid is injected, wherein an upper portion of the apparatus is provided with the ultrasonic probe a front end of which vertically extends into a liquid level of the magnetic fluid, and a bottom portion of the apparatus covers a detected position of the member under detection; andthe magnetic fluid at least contains magnetic suspension particles and an oil-based or water-based liquid.2. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a flexible fence for sealing the bottom portion of the magnetic field generating apparatus claim 1 , by which the detected position of the member under detection is covered claim 1 , wherein the flexible fence is made of soft sound-transmitting materials.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the magnetic field generating apparatus comprises a cylindrical permanent magnet frame.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein an inner wall of the magnetic ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INSPECTING A WHEEL

The present invention discloses a inspection device for detecting a defect of a metal object, where the inspection device includes a main base, at least one main magnetic module, and a main inspection module. The at least one main magnetic module is installed on the main base, for attaching the main base onto the metal object under an action of a magnetic force. The main inspection module is installed on the main base, to detect at least one type of defect of the metal object. The present invention further discloses a wheel defect inspection method and a wheel defect inspection device. The metal object defect inspection device may implement automatic detection of a defect on a whole circumference of a wheel. 1. An inspection device for inspecting a metal object , the inspection device comprising:a main base;at least one main magnetic module mounted to the main base for attaching the main base to the metal object under a magnetic force generated between the at least one main magnetic module and the metal object; anda main inspection module mounted to the main base for detecting at least one defect of the metal object.2. The inspection device of claim 1 , comprising at least one rolling module mounted on the main base for reducing a friction force between the main base and the metal object when the main base moves relative to the metal object.3. The inspection device of claim 1 , wherein the inspection device further comprises a lateral base claim 1 , the main base and the lateral base are connected to form a substantially L-shaped base.4. The inspection device of claim 3 , comprising at least one rotatable member mounted to the lateral base claim 3 , wherein each rotatable member contacts with a surface of the metal object and is rotatable to allow the lateral base to move relative to the surface.5. The inspection device of claim 3 , comprising at least one lateral magnetic module mounted to the lateral base for attaching the lateral base to the metal object under a ...

ULTRASOUND PROBE AND ULTRASOUND EQUIPMENT USING SAME

Provided are: an ultrasound probe with excellent characteristic stability; and ultrasound equipment that uses the ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe has an ultrasonic transmitting and receiving element provided with a substrate, an insulating film formed on the substrate, a cavity formed between the substrate and the insulating film, and a pair of electrodes disposed parallel to the substrate so as to sandwich the cavity. The ultrasound probe is characterized in that the ultrasonic transmitting and receiving element has a beam part with a multilayer structure formed by laminating films made of materials different in stress, the beam part being disposed on the electrode distant from the substrate out of the pair of electrodes, and the beam part is formed by laminating a film that applies tensile stress and a film that applies compressive stress. 110-. (canceled)11. An ultrasound probe comprising:an ultrasonic transmitting and receiving element including a substrate, an insulating film formed on the substrate, a cavity formed between the substrate and the insulating film, and a pair of electrodes disposed parallel to the substrate so as to sandwich the cavity, whereinthe ultrasonic transmitting and receiving element includes a beam part with a multilayer structure formed by laminating films made of materials different in stress, the beam part being disposed on the electrode more distant from the substrate out of the pair of electrodes, andthe beam part is formed by laminating a film that applies tensile stress and a film that applies compressive stress.12. The ultrasound probe according to claim 11 , whereinthe number of layers of the films included in the beam part is larger than the number of layers of insulating films included in a part other than the beam part.13. The ultrasound probe according to claim 12 , whereinthe number of layers of the films included in the beam part is larger than the number of layers of insulating films included in a part other than ...

Electromagnetic transducer for exciting and sensing vibrations of resonant structures

A fluid properties measurement device, including a magnetically excited and sensed resonator and a resonator electromagnetic excitation assembly, including an excitation coil driven by an electrical network, electrically connected to the excitation coil. The excitation coil is positioned so that a varying magnetic field produced by the excitation coil will drive the resonator in a pattern of resonating movement that has predetermined characteristics. Also, an electromagnetic sensing assembly, including a gradiometric sense coil is positioned so that an electromagnetic field originating due to movement of the resonator in a pattern having the predetermined characteristics, will create a time-varying gradient across the sense coil. Finally, a signal sensing electrical network is electrically connected to the sense coil. 1. A fluid properties measurement device ,comprising:(a) a magnetically excited and sensed resonator;(b) a resonator electromagnetic excitation assembly, including an excitation coil driven by an electrical network, electrically connected to said excitation coil, said excitation coil positioned so that a varying magnetic field produced by said excitation coil will drive said resonator in a pattern of resonating movement that has predetermined characteristics; and(c) an electromagnetic sensing assembly, including a gradiometric sense coil positioned so that a magnetic field originating due to movement of said resonator in a pattern having said predetermined characteristics will create a time varying gradient across said sense coil; and a signal sensing electrical network electrically connected to said sense coil.2. The fluid properties measurement device of claim 1 , wherein said excitation coil driving electrical network overlaps with and shares components with said signal sensing electrical network.3. The fluid properties measurement device of claim 1 , wherein said resonator is a torsional resonator.4. The fluid properties measurement device of claim ...

SYSTEM FOR MONITORING THE CONDITION OF STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

A system for monitoring the condition of elongate structural elements, for example, railway rails, and a method of designing and manufacturing the system is disclosed. The method includes identifying and selecting suitable modes of propagation and signal frequencies that can be expected to travel large distances through an elongate structural element; designing a transducer that will excite the selected mode at the selected frequency; numerically modelling the transducer as attached to the elongate structural element; validating the transducer design by analysing a harmonic response of the selected mode of propagation to excitation by the transducer, and manufacturing one or more transducers for use in the system. 1. A system for monitoring and detecting cracks or breaks in rails of a railway track , the system including a plurality of transducers defining transmitting and receiving stations of the system , characterised in that the transducers are located on the inner sides of the rails.2. The system of in which the plurality of transducers is in the form of a series of transducers located at predetermined spaced apart positions claim 1 , with at least one transducer provided at each predetermined position claim 1 , and with ultrasonic waves periodically being transmittable along the rail from one transducer used as a transmitter to a spaced apart transducer used as a receiver.3. The system of in which an array of the transducers is located at each predetermined position.4. The system of in which the plurality of transducers is in the form of a series of transducers located at predetermined spaced apart positions claim 1 , with at least one transducer provided at each predetermined position claim 1 , with ultrasonic waves periodically being transmittable along the rail from one transducer used as a transmitter claim 1 , and reflected by a crack in the rail to the same transducer claim 1 , which is also used as a receiver.5. The system of in which an array of the ...

Three-dimensional cavitation quantitative imaging method for microsecond-resolution cavitation spatial-temporal distribution

A three-dimensional cavitation quantitative imaging method for a microsecond-resolution cavitation spatial-temporal distribution includes steps of: after each wide beam detection, moving an array transducer by one unit; waiting until the cavitation nuclei distribution backs to an initial state, then detecting the cavitation by the wide beam detection with same cavitation energy incitation, so as to obtain a spatial series of two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data corresponding to different placing positions of the array transducer; then changing the cavitation energy source duration, time delays between energy source incitation and the wide beam transmitted by the array transducer, and time delays between the pulsating pump and energy source incitation, so as to obtain a temporal series of two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data; and then obtaining a microsecond-resolution three-dimensional cavitation spatial-temporal distribution image and a cavitation micro bubble concentration quantitative Nakagami parametric image. 1. A three-dimensional cavitation quantitative imaging method for a microsecond-resolution cavitation spatial-temporal distribution , comprising steps of: using a wide beam to detect cavitation activity for two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data obtained; after cavitation detection by each wide beam , moving an array transducer for the wide beam detection by one unit perpendicular to a placing direction of the array transducer; waiting until a cavitation nuclei distribution returns to an original state thereof , then detecting the cavitation by the wide beam detection with same cavitation energy incitation , so as to obtain a spatial series of two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data with the array transducer placed at different unit positions; and then obtaining a three-dimensional cavitation image and a cavitation micro bubble concentration quantitative three-dimensional image by combining wide beam ...

System and method for acoustic container volume calibration

A system and method is disclosed for calibrating the volume of storage containers using ultrasonic inspection techniques. The exemplary ultrasonic calibration system comprises a plurality of acoustic devices controllably deployed in respective positions on the outside surface of the container. The acoustic devices include a transducer for sending acoustic signals across the internal volume of the container and sensors configured to detect the acoustic signals. The acoustic devices are in communication with a diagnostic computing device that controls the positioning and the operation of the acoustic devices and is further configured to determine the time time-of-flight of acoustic signals that travel between the various acoustic devices. Moreover, according to the specific arrangement of acoustic devices and the measured acoustic signal information, the control computer is configured to calculate the dimensions of the container and its internal volume.

APPARATUS FOR DETECTING DEFECT AND METHOD FOR DETECTING DEFECT USING THE SAME

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for detecting a defect and a method for detecting a defect using the same, and more particularly, to an apparatus for detecting a defect and a method for detecting a defect using the same for detecting a defect inside an inspection object without destructing the inspection object. 1. An apparatus for detecting a defect comprising:a first probe unit configured to transmit a signal into an inspection object and receive a signal generated inside the inspection object;a second probe unit separately installed from the first probe unit and configured to receive the signal generated inside the inspection object; anda position determining unit configured to detect a defect position inside the inspection object using the signal received by the first probe unit and the signal received by the second probe unit.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first probe unit and the second probe unit are movably installed along a surface of the inspection object.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the signal generated inside the inspection object comprises a diffraction signal that the signal transmitted from the first probe unit is diffracted by a defect.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the position determining unit determines the defect position inside the inspection object using an interval L between the first probe unit and the second probe unit claim 1 , a distance Sfrom the first probe unit to the defect claim 1 , and a distance Sbetween the second probe unit to the defect.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the distance Sfrom the first probe unit to the defect is calculated using a difference between transmission time of the signal transmitted from the first probe unit and a reception time of the signal received by the first probe unit claim 4 , and a travel speed of the signal inside the inspection object.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the distance Sfrom the second probe unit to the defect is calculated using a ...

FINGERPRINTING AND ANALYZING GEMSTONES

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to the examination of gemstones including diamonds, both cut/polished and rough, using the technology of Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy. The resonant frequencies are obtained by mechanically causing the stone to vibrate using a swept sine oscillator, sensing the resonance vibrations, and displaying the spectrum to yield a pattern describing the stone. The resonance fingerprints can be used to both track an individual stone to verify its integrity or to grade a rough stone to establish potential value. 1. A method , comprising: [ 'wherein the first input transducer is contacting a gemstone under evaluation;', 'sending an input signal to a first input transducer,'}, 'wherein the second receiver transducer is contacting the gemstone under evaluation;', 'receiving a resonance signal from a second receiver transducer,'}, 'stepping the input signal through a range of input frequencies;', 'receiving a range of received signals;, 'by a signal generator and a signal processor,'}processing, with algorithms, the range of received signals; andsending the processed range of received signals for the gemstone under evaluation to a computer for storage and display.2. The method of wherein the input signal is sent from the signal generator to the first transducer through an input amplifier; andwherein the received signal is received at the signal processor from the receiver transducer through a receiver amplifier.3. The method of wherein processing the received signal includes in-phase and quadrature components of the received signal.4. The method of wherein the signal processor includes a phase sensitive detector and digital signal processor.5. The method of wherein stepping the input signal through a range of input frequencies is stepped by 1 to 1000 Hz.6. The method of wherein the range of input frequencies is between 0.1 MHz and 4 MHz.7. The method of wherein the signal generator and the signal processor are configured on a chip claim 1 ...

Systems and Methods for Damage Detection

A system for detecting damage to a glass surface particularly vehicle glazing panels such as vehicle windscreens. The system uses a sensor unit disposed proximate the surface and a processor in communication with the sensor unit. The processor is configured to analyse data received from the sensor unit in order to determine the integrity of the surface and a communication unit is configured to output a signal in response to the processor determining that the surface has been damaged. For vehicle glass the system is preferably integrated into the vehicle management and control systems such that the system is active when the vehicle is active or moving. The management and or control system may monitor for instances or situations when changes, such as above threshold changes, occur in order to produce an output warning signal. 1. A system for detecting damage to a glass surface , the system comprising:a sensor unit disposed proximate the surface;a processor in communication with the sensor unit, wherein the processor is configured to analyze data received from the sensor unit to determine the integrity of the surface; anda communication unit configured to output a signal in response to the processor determining that the surface has been damaged.2. A damage detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the surface is a vehicle windscreen.3. A damage detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit comprises a microphone and the processor comprises a sound amplification and signal processing system.4. A damage detection system according to claim 3 , wherein the processor is configured to identify a plurality of predetermined sound signals indicative of damage events.5. A damage detection system according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor unit comprises a camera arranged to image the surface and the processor comprises image processing software operable to analyze images received from the camera to identify any damage areas.6. A damage detection system ...

Sensor apparatus

A sensor apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an element substrate, an element electrode located on an upper surface of the element substrate, an insulating member covering at least a part of the element electrode, and a detection part that includes an immobilizing film located on the upper surface of the element substrate or an upper surface of the insulating member, and performs a detection of a detection object contained in a specimen. A surface roughness of the immobilizing film is smaller than a surface roughness of the element electrode. In a sensor apparatus of other embodiment of the present invention, an amount of oxygen in a surface layer part of the immobilizing film is smaller than an amount of oxygen in a surface layer part of the element electrode.

A METHOD FOR DETECTING A FAULT SUCH AS A CRACK IN A REGION-OF-INTEREST IN ORDER TO A ROTATION AXIS ROTATABLE RAILWAY WHEEL AND APPARATUS THEREFOR

The invention relates to a method for testing of a train wheel by ultrasound. The method is based on a pulsed ultrasonic field in the train wheel to be tested by an array of individually controllable ultrasonic transmitting transducers acoustically coupled to the train wheel each controlled with a specific analog transient excitation signal. Each analog transient excitation signal generated based on an ultrasonic transmitting transducer-specific stored digital transient excitation function. The resulting echo signals from the train wheel to be tested are recorded by an array of individually controllable ultrasonic receiving transducers. Each ultrasonic receiving transducer can provide an analog, time-resolved echo signal. The received echo signals can be digitized in a transducer-specific way and stored in a set. A plurality of different reception processing rules can then be applied to the latter. Furthermore, the invention relates to a device for carrying out the method. 1. A method for detecting a flaw in a region of interest in a train wheel that is rotatable about an axis of rotation , wherein an array of individually controllable ultrasonic transmitting transducers provided for insonifying an ultrasonic field is moved relative to the train wheel in a substantially circular manner about the axis of rotation , the method comprising ,controlling each of the ultrasonic transmitting transducers with a specific transient excitation signal, each transient excitation signal being generated based on an ultrasonic transmitting transducer-specific stored digital transient excitation function, andreceiving, by an array of individually controllable ultrasonic receiving transducers, resulting echo signals from the test object, with each ultrasonic receiving transducer providing an analog time-resolved echo signal.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic transmitting transducers are controlled such that a line-like focus of the insonified ultrasonic field ...

AN APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING A PIPELINE

It is described an apparatus for inspecting a pipeline, said apparatus including a cylindrical body () adapted to be transported inside said pipeline, an array of acoustical transducers (T) installed in the surface of the cylindrical body (), the acoustical transducers being organized in columns and rows in a belt around the cylindrical body, a controller adapted to initiate a transmission of an acoustical signal from a first transducer (T) and a reception of said acoustical signal from other transducers in said array surrounding the first transducer, the controller further being adapted to determine the direction to a flaw in the wall of said pipeline from the received acoustical signals. 11515. An apparatus for inspecting a pipeline , said apparatus including: a cylindrical body () adapted to be transported inside said pipeline , an array of acoustical transducers (T) installed in the surface of the cylindrical body () , the acoustical transducers being organized in columns and rows in a belt around the cylindrical body , characterized in that the apparatus includes a controller adapted to initiate a transmission of an acoustical signal from a first transducer and a reception of said acoustical signal from other transducers in said array surrounding the first transducer , said other transducers in said array detecting signals travelling in all direction from said first transducer , the controller further being adapted to determine the distance and direction to a flaw in the wall of said pipeline by comparing the signals received by said other transducers.2. An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the controller is adapted to initiate transmission of a signal exiting a thickness mode of the pipeline wall.3. A method for testing the wall of a pipeline claim 1 , said method including the steps of: transmitting an acoustical signal from a first transmitting transducer facing the wall and positioned in a distance from the wall claim 1 , the signal exciting a ...

System to automate a non-destructive test for stress or stress change using unmanned aerial vehicle and ultrasound

This invention discloses a system to automate a non-destructive test (NDT) for measuring stress or stress change developed within an object during a certain time period by using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and ultrasound technique. The system comprises a ground control station (GCS), UAVs and reference positioning modules as its basis. Given a test plan containing test points over a surface of a test object in 3D point coordinates, UAVs can fly autonomously to the points and perform ultrasound measurements on them with a single or a plurality of ultrasound transducers in an automated manner. Moreover, after receiving trigger signals from the GCS, a UAV can also perform the flight and the measurement synchronously with other UAVs. After a measurement, an acquired ultrasound echo signal is taken with another echo signal acquired at a different time point to compute stress or stress change. 1. A system to automate a non-destructive test for stress or stress change developed within an object , comprises: 1. the station transmits a test plan, including a single or a plurality of autopilot flight control commands, to a single or a plurality of unmanned aerial vehicles;', '2. the station receives the flight state of a single or a plurality of unmanned aerial vehicles;', '3. the station receives and stores ultrasound echo signals or a stress map from a single or a plurality of unmanned aerial vehicles;', '4. the station retrieves ultrasound echo signals acquired at different time points from a storage and computes stress or stress change from the temporal ultrasound velocity changes with the signals for creating a stress map;, 'wherein the station comprises the following properties, 'ground control station;'} 1. the vehicle comprises a single or a plurality of ultrasound transducers for a non-destructive test;', '2. the vehicle flies autonomously to a hold point located near above a surface of a test object;', '3. the vehicle comprises a single or a plurality of distance ...

LIQUID IMMERSION SENSOR

A liquid immersion sensor for a mobile device with at least two acoustic transducers is described. The liquid immersion sensor may include a signal generator having a signal generator output configured to generate a signal for transmission via a first acoustic transducer, and a signal receiver having a signal receiver input configured to receive a delayed version of the generated signal via a second acoustic transducer. The signal receiver includes a signal receiver output. The liquid immersion sensor includes a controller having a first controller input for receiving a reference signal and a second controller input coupled to the signal receiver output. The controller determines a time lag value between the reference signal and the delayed signal and generates a control output signal dependent on the phase difference. The control output signal indicates if the mobile device is immersed in liquid. 1. A liquid immersion sensor for a mobile device comprising at least two acoustic transducers , the liquid immersion sensor comprising:a signal generator having a signal generator output configured to generate a signal for transmission via a first acoustic transducer;a signal receiver having a signal receiver input configured to receive a delayed version of the generated signal via a second acoustic transducer, the signal receiver further comprising a signal receiver output; anda controller having a first controller input configured to receive a reference signal and a second controller input coupled to the signal receiver output; whereinthe controller is configured to determine a time lag value between the reference signal and the delayed signal; and to generate a control output signal dependent on the time lag, wherein the control output signal indicates whether or not the mobile device is immersed in liquid.2. A liquid immersion sensor of wherein the signal generator output is coupled to the first controller input and wherein the reference signal comprises the generated ...

CONTROL METHOD, INSPECTION SYSTEM, AND STORAGE MEDIUM

According to one embodiment, a control method includes setting a transmission angle of an ultrasonic wave to a standard angle. The control method further includes transmitting an ultrasonic wave at the set transmission angle and detecting an intensity of a reflected wave from an object. The control method further includes calculating a tilt angle based on a gradient of the intensity. The tilt angle indicates a tilt of the object. The control method further includes resetting the transmission angle based on the tilt angle. 1. A control method , comprising:setting a transmission angle of an ultrasonic wave to a standard angle;transmitting an ultrasonic wave at the set transmission angle and detecting an intensity of a reflected wave from an object;calculating a tilt angle based on a gradient of the intensity, the tilt angle indicating a tilt of the object; andresetting the transmission angle based on the tilt angle.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the transmitting claim 1 , the detecting claim 1 , and the calculating are performed again after the resetting.3. The method according to claim 1 , whereina first loop of repeating the detecting, the calculating, and the resetting is performed after the resetting,the first loop includes determining whether or not the first loop has ended, andthe first loop is performed until the determining determines that the first loop has ended.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the determining determines that the first loop has ended when a number of repetitions of the detecting or the calculating reaches a prescribed number of times or more.5. The method according to claim 3 , whereina difference between a second tilt angle and a first tilt angle is calculated when a plurality of the tilt angles is calculated by the first loop, the plurality of tilt angles including the first tilt angle and the second tilt angle, the second tilt angle being calculated after the first tilt angle, andthe determining determines that ...

ADHESIVE BOND TEST RESONANCE ARRAY

An adhesive bond test resonance array provides inspection of adhesively bonded composite laminate structures with improved productivity and higher reliability. A holder has multiple slots arranged in a two-dimensional array for holding transducers in respective slots. The holder is adapted to position a probe end of each of the transducers adjacent a component for scanning and has a material hardness adapted for enabling flexing while scanning curved composite parts. A fluid channel is adapted for delivering a couplant to the probe end of the transducers such that the couplant is automatically delivered during scanning of the component to inspect bond integrity. 1. An adhesive bond test resonance array , comprising:a holder having a plurality of slots arranged in a two-dimensional array;a plurality of transducers each disposed in the plurality of slots, respectively, the holder being adapted to position a probe end of each of the plurality of transducers adjacent a component for scanning; anda fluid channel adapted for delivering a couplant to the probe end of the plurality of transducers such that the couplant is automatically delivered during scanning of the component.2. The adhesive bond test resonance array of claim 1 , wherein the two-dimensional array comprises an irregular pattern to reduce an overall footprint of the array claim 1 , the irregular pattern being compact for scanning close to component edges and irregular geometrical features.3. The adhesive bond test resonance array of claim 1 , wherein the holder is adapted to provide enough rigidity for supporting closely spaced transducers claim 1 , while also being adapted to provide enough flexibility for flexing with contours of curved components.4. The adhesive bond test resonance array of claim 1 , the holder comprising:a receiving side adapted for receiving the plurality of transducers into the respective plurality of slots;an interface side, opposite the receiving side, adapted for interfacing with a ...

Detection system, detection device, and detection method

According to one embodiment, a detection system of an embodiment includes a sensor configured to detect elastic waves and a determiner. The determiner determines a region where an elastic wave generation source is positioned on the basis of waveform information if the waveform information including a plurality of peak groups related to one elastic wave is included in a detection result of the sensor.

Automated ultrasonic press systems and methods for welding physically variant components

The present disclosure can provide for an ultrasonic welding method for a pair of workpieces. The method can include first pressing an ultrasonic welding stack against a first workpiece in the pair so that the first workpiece comes into contact with a second workpiece in the pair. The method can then provide for initiating a weld phase by outputting energy from the ultrasonic welding stack to the first workpiece. The method can provide for monitoring, with at least one sensor, a sensed parameter. The sensed parameter can be, for example, weld force and/or weld force rate of change. The method can provide for determining whether the sensed parameter has reached a predetermined level. Based on determining that the sensed parameter has reached the predetermined level, the method can provide for ending the weld phase.

SMALL-DIAMETER WIRE/ROD/TUBE ULTRASONIC DETECTION SYSTEM WITHOUT END BLIND AREA

The present invention aims at providing a small-diameter wire/rod/tube ultrasonic detector with an end blind area and an automatic ultrasonic nondestructive detecting system, wherein a sealing cover of the ultrasonic detector is located on a water storage device; an annular array unit mounting rack and a water pump are fixed in the water storage device, and an annular array detecting unit is connected to the annular array unit mounting rack; the water pump is connected to an input end of water circulation input and output; a sensor is mounted in one side of the sealing cover in which a detected material is allowed to enter; the annular array detecting unit comprises an outer ring part and an inner ring part, and the outer ring part and the inner ring part are connected into a whole by means of a wire inlet side end cover and a wire outlet side end cover; the outer ring part consists of an outer ring substrate and an outer ring arraying probe, and the inner ring part consists of an inner ring inner core and an inner ring inner core locking ring. The ultrasonic detector in the present invention has unique “acoustic eye” structure characteristics, changes the mode of ultrasonic waves entering the detected material, and can effectively eliminate the end detection blind area of the wire/rod/tube. 110-. (canceled)11. An ultrasonic detector , comprising:a water storage device;a sealing cover provided on the water storage device for sealing the water storage device;an annular array unit mounting rack;an annular array detecting unit; anda sensor mounted at an outside of the sealing cover for determining the positions of the head portion and the tail portion of the material to be detected, wherein the annular array unit mounting rack are fixed inside the water storage device and the annular array detecting unit is connected to the annular array unit mounting rack, wherein the annular array detecting unit comprises an outer ring and an inner ring, wherein the outer ring and ...

MAPPING DENSITY AND TEMPERATURE OF A CHIP, IN SITU

A method and system to map density and temperature of a chip, in situ, is disclosed. The method includes measuring a propagation time that a mechanical propagation wave travels along at least one predefined path in a substrate. The method further includes calculating an average substrate density and temperature along the at least one predefined path as a function of the propagation time and distance. The method further includes determining a defect or unauthorized modification in the substrate based on the average substrate density being different than a baseline substrate density. 1. A chip comprising:at least one transmitter and at least one receiver, the at least one transmitter generating a mechanical wave which is received by the at least one receiver; anda timing circuit in communication with the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver, which measures a time in which the mechanical wave travels between the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver.2. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the timing circuit is synchronized with the at least one transmitter.3. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the timing circuit triggers the at least one transmitter.4. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transmitter triggers the timing circuit.5. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver are positioned remotely from an active region of a chip.6. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the least one transmitter and the at least one receiver comprises multiple transmitters and multiple receivers positioned at a periphery of a chip.7. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver are Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) Microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices.8. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver are bulk acoustic wave (BAW) devices.9. The chip of claim 1 , wherein the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver are ...

Ultrasonic geometry testing, involving inaccuracy correction of transducer positioning

The invention relates to a method for ultrasonic geometry testing of a test object ( 28 ) at various measuring positions distributed along a surface ( 26 ) of a test object (x n ) by means of at least one ultrasonic transducer, comprising a plurality of steps. First, a calibration device ( 20 ) with known dimensions (OD cal (x n )) is provided. Then there follow several calibrating steps, during each of which a measuring position specific distance (WP(x n )) between calibration device ( 20 ) and ultrasonic transducer ( 10 ) is determined and stored by an ultrasonic transit time method, by at least one echo on at least one surface of the calibration device ( 20 ), using the known dimension (OD cal (x n )) for each measuring position n . Subsequently, a test object ( 28 ) is provided, at which ultrasonic transit time measurements are performed in multiple test steps. Transit time measurements are thereby taken at several measuring positions x n , using at least one echo on at least one surface ( 26 ) of the test object ( 28 ). In the following evaluation step a dimension ( 27 ) of the test object is calculated using the measuring position-specific distances WP(x n ).

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR NONDESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF TUBULAR PRODUCTS, ESPECIALLY ON SITE

A device for inspection of a tubular piece includes a cart including plural elemental ultrasound transducers distributed along at least a first direction and a guide which cooperates with an exterior surface of the piece to position the cart such that the first direction essentially corresponds to a direction transverse to the tubular piece. A control electronics, connected to the electroacoustic transducers, includes a memory storing the timed excitation laws and a controller that applies in succession a respective timed excitation law to subsets of mutually adjacent elemental transducers along the first direction. The timed excitation laws are designed so that the elemental transducers of the respective subsets jointly produce incident beams of ultrasonic waves propagating along respective directions inclined relative to a direction normal to the exterior surface of the tubular piece. 124-. (canceled)25. A device for inspection of tubular pieces , comprising: a plurality of elemental transducers of electroacoustic type, distributed along at least a first direction; and', 'a guide configured to cooperate with an exterior surface of a tubular piece being inspected to position the cart such that the first direction essentially corresponds to a direction transverse to the tubular piece;, 'at least one cart includinga control electronics, connected to the electroacoustic transducers; a memory storing one or more timed excitation laws;', 'one or more controllers configured to apply in succession at least one respective timed excitation law to subsets of mutually adjacent elemental transducers along the first direction; and, 'wherein the control electronics compriseswherein at least certain of the timed excitation laws are designed so that the elemental transducers of the respective subsets jointly produce incident beams of ultrasonic waves propagating along respective directions inclined relative to a direction normal to the exterior surface of the tubular piece.26. A ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM OF CONSOLIDATING MULTIPLE PHASED ARRAY INSTRUMENTS

A non-destructive testing and inspection (NDT/NDI) system and method operable to conduct an ultrasonic scanning test on a test object that synchronizes and merges the apertures of two or more NDT sub-instruments in frequency and phase. Disclosed are a method of using a Phased Lock Loop (PLL) as a synchronizing clock/trigger generator, and also a method of using a General Positioning Clock (GPS) and a pulse per second (PPS) output. Both methods combine ultrasonic scanning data acquisition from two or more NDT sub-instruments, and transform the sub-instruments into one bigger NDT instrument. 1. A non-destructive testing and inspection (NDT/NDI) system operable to conduct an NDT/NDI test operation on a test object with N number of testing areas , including areas 1 , 2 , . . . N , the inspection system comprising ,a plurality of NDT/NDI instruments of the same type, including instruments 1, 2, . . . N, each coupled with a corresponding probe 1, 2, . . . N, which is further coupled with and receiving response signals from the corresponding testing area 1, 2, . . . , N, respectively, wherein each of the instruments has a corresponding operating clock 1, 2, . . . , N and a corresponding data acquisition unit 1, 2, . . . , N;a plurality of M clock managing units, wherein M is less than or equal to N, including clock managing units 1, 2, . . . , M, and,at least one supervising unit coupled with each of the instruments, and each supervising unit further comprising a data processing unit;wherein the clock managing units are configured to produce at least one predetermined clock and phase command managing at least one corresponding operating clock, and each clock managing unit is coupled to at least one corresponding instrument to operate the instrument with the predetermined clock and phase command, and the data processing unit is operable to compose an inspection result merging the response signals from at least some of the probes.2. The inspection system of wherein the clock ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CHARACTERIZING A MEDIUM USING ULTRASOUND MEASUREMENTS

Properties of a medium, such as its particle size distribution, are characterized using a measurement cell containing a medium between walls of the cell, with ultrasound transducers on opposite walls. Ultrasound is transmitted from the ultrasound transducers on both sides and transmission and reflection responses are detected. An ultrasound frequency dependent ratio of a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from transmission responses in opposite directions and a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from reflections at the transducers is computed. Preferably, the first received reflected and transmitted pulses in response to pulse excitation are used to compute the ratio. Ultrasound frequency dependent ultrasound speed and/or attenuation data of ultrasound in the medium are computed as a function of the ultrasound frequency from the ratio. This eliminates the effect of the walls. 1. A method of ultrasound reflection measurement using a measurement cell containing a medium and a first ultrasound transducer and a second ultrasound transducer on mutually opposite first and second walls of the cell respectively , the method comprisingtransmitting ultrasound from the first ultrasound transducer to the second ultrasound transducer and vice versa, through the walls of the measurement cell and the medium between the walls;detecting a first and second reflection response using the first and second ultrasound transducer respectively in response to their own transmissions;using the second and first ultrasound transducer to detect a first and second transmission response to the ultrasound using transmitted by the first and second ultrasound transducer respectively;computing an ultrasound frequency dependent ratio of a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from the first and second transmission response and a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from the first and second reflection response;computing ...

METER AND METHOD FOR DETECTON OF A METER HAVING BEEN TAMPERED WITH

A method for detection of a utility meter having been tampered with, in particular a water or heat meter having been tampered with, and a meter for detecting such tampering are provided. The utility meter comprises a flow measurement portion in which the flow of water is measured. The method comprises detecting a presence of air in the flow measurement portion and evaluating a fraud condition, wherein the fraud condition comprises that air is present in the flow measurement portion for a first period of time or more. In response to the fraud condition being evaluated as met, an alert is generated. 1. A method for detecting a utility meter having been tampered with , the meter comprising a flow measurement portion in which flow of water is measured , the method comprising:detecting a presence of air in the flow measurement portion;evaluating a fraud condition, wherein the fraud condition comprises that air is present in the flow measurement portion for a first period of time or more; andgenerating an alert in response to the fraud condition being evaluated as met.2. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the fraud condition comprises that air is present in the flow measurement portion for the first period of time or more and for a second period of time or more.3. A method according to or claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , after detecting a presence of air in the flow measurement portion claim 1 , the method further comprises waiting for an interim period of time and determining a presence of air in the flow measurement portion for the or a second period of time.4. A method according to any preceding claim claim 1 , wherein the fraud condition comprises a first fraud sub-condition and a second fraud sub-condition claim 1 , the first fraud sub-condition comprising that air is present in the flow measurement portion for both the first period of time or more and the or a second period of time or more claim 1 , the second fraud sub-condition comprising that air is present in ...

METHOD FOR RECONSTRUCTING A THREE-DIMENSIONAL SURFACE USING AN ULTRASONIC MATRIX SENSOR

A method for reconstructing a three-dimensional surface of a part using an ultrasonic matrix sensor including scanning the three-dimensional surface using a matrix sensor at different measurement points located at the intersection of scanning rows and of increment rows at each measurement point, acquiring a temporal row image representing a reflected wave amplitude received by each element from a selected row of the matrix sensor and acquiring a temporal column image representing a reflected wave amplitude received by each element from a selected column of the matrix sensor, constructing a two-dimensional row image for each scanning row on the basis of the temporal row images constructing a two-dimensional column image for each increment row on the basis of the temporal column images, and constructing a three-dimensional image on the basis of the two dimensional row images and of the two-dimensional column images. 1. A method for reconstructing a three-dimensional surface of a part using a matrix sensor comprising a plurality of elements arranged in rows and columns , each element being arranged to be able to emit an incident wave in the direction of the part and to generate a signal representing a reflected wave received by said element , the method comprising:scanning the three-dimensional surface with the matrix sensor, the matrix sensor being moved in a plurality of measurement points, each measurement point being defined by the intersection of a scanning line, among a set of scanning lines parallel to the rows of elements of the matrix sensor, and an increment line, among a set of increment lines parallel to the columns of elements of the matrix sensor, acquiring a temporal row image comprising emitting an incident wave by one or more elements of a selected row of the matrix sensor and generating, for each of the elements of the selected row, a temporal signal representing an amplitude over time of a reflected wave received by said element, the temporal row ...

ULTRASONIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS, ULTRASONIC HEAD UNIT, ULTRASONIC PROBE, AND ULTRASONIC IMAGING APPARATUS

An ultrasonic measuring apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer device having a substrate and an ultrasonic transducer element array that is arranged on the substrate, a first channel terminal group arranged at one edge portion of the ultrasonic transducer element array in a first direction, a second channel terminal group arranged at the other edge portion of the ultrasonic transducer element array in the first direction, a first flexible substrate provided on the one edge portion side and having arranged thereon a first wiring group that is connected to the first channel terminal group, a first integrated circuit apparatus that is mounted on the first flexible substrate and performs at least one of signal transmission to the first channel terminal group and signal reception from the first channel terminal group, a second flexible substrate provided on the other edge portion side and having arranged thereon a second wiring group that is connected to the second channel terminal group, and a second integrated circuit apparatus that is mounted on the first flexible substrate and performs at least one of signal transmission to the second channel terminal group and signal reception from the second channel terminal group. In the ultrasonic transducer element array, channels that are connected to the first channel terminal group and channels that are connected to the second channel terminal group are arranged alternately every channel in a second direction that intersects the first direction. 1. An ultrasonic measuring apparatus comprising:an ultrasonic transducer device having a substrate and an ultrasonic transducer element array that is arranged on the substrate;a first channel terminal group arranged at one edge portion of the ultrasonic transducer element array in a first direction;a second channel terminal group arranged at the other edge portion of the ultrasonic transducer element array in the first direction;a first flexible substrate provided on the one edge ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MAPPING COMPONENTS FOR DETECTING ELONGATION DIRECTION

The invention concerns a method for the non-destructive mapping of a component, in order to determine an elongation direction of the elongate microstructure of the component at at least one point of interest, characterised in that it comprises at least two successive intensity measurement steps comprising the following steps: a sub-step of rotating a linear transducer into a plurality of angular positions, said linear transducer comprising a plurality of transducer elements, a sub-step of emitting a plurality of elementary ultrasonic beams at each angular position, a sub-step of measuring a plurality of backscattered signals resulting from the backscattering of the elementary ultrasonic beams by said elongate microstructure, the intensity measurement steps making it possible to obtain two series of intensities measured according to two axes of rotation, and in that the method comprises a step of combining the measured series of intensities so as to determine the elongation direction of the microstructure at said at least one point of interest. 1. Method for the non-destructive mapping of a component comprising an elongated microstructure , to determine an elongation direction of the elongated microstructure at at least one point of interest of the component , wherein said method includes at least two successive intensity measurement steps comprising the following steps:a sub-step of rotating a linear transducer in a plurality of angular positions each defining an angle of rotation about an axis of rotation passing through said at least one point of interest, said linear transducer extending along a main plane and comprising a plurality of transducer elements aligned along a main direction of said linear transducer,a sub-step of emitting a plurality of elementary ultrasonic beams at each angular position by each of said plurality of transducer elements in the direction of said point of interest,a sub-step of measuring by each of said plurality of transducer elements ...

MEDICAL TUBING INSTALLATION DETECTION

This disclosure relates to detecting fluid in medical tubing. In certain aspects, a method is performed by a data processing apparatus. The method includes controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes receiving a signal from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes determining that fluid is absent or present in a portion of the medical fluid tube based on a comparison between the signal and a threshold value. 119-. (canceled)20. A dialysis medical system comprising:a dialysis medical machine;a control unit;a portable computing device that is configured to wirelessly communicate with the control unit;a medical fluid tube connected to the dialysis medical machine;an ultrasonic transmitter positioned adjacent to the medical fluid tube;an ultrasonic receiver positioned adjacent to the medical fluid tube configured to receive one or more signals in response to the activation of the ultrasonic transmitter; and activating the ultrasonic transmitter for a first period; and', 'deactivating the ultrasonic transmitter for a second period;, 'controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter, wherein controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter comprises, for each repetition, 'a computer storage medium encoded with computer program instructions that when executed by the dialysis medical system, cause the control unit to perform operations comprisingwherein at least one of the following is provided:(i) the first period and the second period are chosen to minimize cavitation in fluid carried in the medical fluid tube, or(ii) based on comparison of a threshold value and a signal received from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter for the first period, presence or absence of fluid in a portion of the medical fluid tube is determined.21. The system of claim 20 , wherein the first period is 5 milliseconds and the ...

ULTRASONIC SENSOR AS WELL AS PROBE AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS

An ultrasonic sensor includes a vibration plate, a first electrode, a piezoelectric body, and a second electrode. The first electrode is laminated on the vibration plate, that has a length along a surface of the vibration plate in a first direction, and that has a width Wbe along the surface of the vibration plate in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. The width Wbe is not more than the length. The piezoelectric body is laminated on the first electrode and has a width Wpz in the second direction. The second electrode is laminated on the piezoelectric body. A ratio Wbe/Wpz between the width Wbe of the first electrode and the width Wpz of the piezoelectric body is not less than 0.1 and not more than 0.8. 1. An ultrasonic sensor , comprising:a vibration plate;a first electrode laminated on the vibration plate, the first electrode having a length along a surface of the vibration plate in a first direction and a width Wbe along the surface of the vibration plate in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction, the width Wbe being not more than the length;a piezoelectric body that is laminated on the first electrode and that has a width Wpz in the second direction; anda second electrode laminated on the piezoelectric body,a ratio Wbe/Wpz between the width Wbe of the first electrode and the width Wpz of the piezoelectric body being not less than 0.1 and not more than 0.8.2. The ultrasonic sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the ratio Wbe/Wpz is not more than 0.5.3. The ultrasonic sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein in a plan view that is orthogonal to the surface of the vibration plate, a distance from an outline of the piezoelectric body to an outline of the vibration plate in the second direction is not less than 0.02 times and not more than 0.3 times a width of the vibration plate.4. The ultrasonic sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein in the first direction, the second electrode has a smaller width than the piezoelectric body. ...

Method for determining mechanical properties of a material

A tool having at least one vibration sensor and at least one standoff is disposed in a contact with a material and the at least one standoff of the tool is pushed into the material. Vibration is excited by the at least one vibration source and at least one coupling frequency of the tool is measured by the at least one vibration sensor. Based on the determined coupling frequency determining a contact stiffness of the at least one standoff and the mechanical properties of the material are determined taking into account mechanical properties of the at least one standoff.

Ultrasonic Inspection Using Flexible Two-Dimensional Array Applied on Surface of Article

Methods for ultrasonic inspection of a structure by laying a flexible two-dimensional flexible ultrasonic transducer array over a damage site on the structure with minimal physical interaction with the array during set-up and without further movement of the array during data acquisition. In addition, the array may remain in place on a difficult-to-access surface to enable easy periodic inspections over a long period of time. In some embodiments, the array is sandwiched between a flexible delay line substrate and a flexible display panel. In accordance with one wireless embodiment, a GPS receiver, a transceiver, pulser/receiver circuitry, and a source of electrical power (e.g., a battery) are attached to a portion of the flexible delay line substrate that extends beyond one edge of the array.

Two-Dimensional Array Depression Profiler and Measurement Device

Example systems and methods for non-destructive evaluation of depressions on a surface of an object are provided. One example system includes a measurement apparatus having a two-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array, a delay line material, a sealing member position such that the sealing member forms a cavity between the delay line material and a surface of the object, and a liquid inlet for injecting a liquid into the cavity. The example system also includes a processor configured to determine, using ultrasonic signals received from the two-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array, at least one property of a depression such as a dent on the surface of an object. The example system may also be configured to provide an output that is indicative of whether the at least one property of the depression satisfies a predetermined criterion. Another example system includes a compressible elastomeric delay line material that conforms to a surface of an object. 1. A system for non-destructive evaluation of depressions on a surface of an object , the system comprising: a two-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array,', 'a delay line material coupled to the two-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array,', 'a sealing member positioned such that the sealing member forms a cavity between the delay line material and the surface of the object when the measurement apparatus is placed onto the surface of the object, and', 'a liquid inlet for injecting a liquid into the cavity; and, 'a measurement apparatus comprisinga processor configured to determine, using ultrasonic signals received from the two-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array, at least one property of a depression on the surface of the object.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an output component claim 1 , determine whether the at least one property of the depression satisfies at least one predetermined criterion, and', 'cause the output component to provide an output that is indicative of whether the at least one ...

Ultrasonic measurement device, head unit, probe, and diagnostic device

An ultrasonic measurement device includes a substrate, an ultrasonic transducer device, and an integrated circuit device. The ultrasonic transducer device has an ultrasonic element array arranged on the substrate. The integrated circuit device is mounted on the substrate. The ultrasonic element array is rectangle, and when a long side direction of the rectangle is defined as a first direction, the integrated circuit device is mounted on the substrate so as to form the long side direction of the integrated circuit device along the first direction. The integrated circuit device is arranged along the first direction and has a plurality of transmission circuits that output transmission signals to the ultrasonic element array.

Thin-film ultrasonic probe having a flexible membrane

A method comprises positioning an ultrasonic probe against a surface of an item. The probe includes a chamber formed in part by a flexible membrane, which is opposite the surface. The method further comprises moving the probe along the surface while varying chamber pressure to flex the membrane to accommodate the surface.

System and method for monitoring the structural health of rotating elements

A structural health monitoring system capable of maintaining electrical contact with sensors affixed to a rotating structure. One such structural health monitoring system comprises a rotatable structure, a plurality of sensors each affixed to the rotatable structure, and an interface. The interface has an inner housing and an outer housing, and maintains a plurality of individual electrical connections, each of the individual electrical connections being an electrical connection between one of the sensors and an electrical contact maintained on the outer housing, the electrical connections configured to be maintained during rotation of the structure. The inner housing is affixed to the structure and the outer housing is rotationally coupled to the inner housing, so that the inner housing is free to rotate with respect to the outer housing during rotation of the structure and the sensors, while maintaining the electrical connections.

Method And System For Product Supply Chain Assurance

A method for determining the purity or authenticity of a substance being transported in a container through a supply chain including providing an entry transmitter for generating a multi-frequency coded ultrasonic signal and an entry receiver for receiving said signal after it has passed through the substance and the container, generating an entry identifier of the substance in the container, recording said entry identifier at an entry point of said supply chain, transporting the substance in the container to a destination, providing an exit transmitter for generating a multi-frequency coded ultrasonic signal and an exit receiver for receiving said signal after it has passed through the substance and the container, generating an exit identifier of the substance in the container, and comparing said entry identifier and said exit identifier to determine whether the substance in the container has been altered during travel through the supply chain. 1. A method for determining the purity or authenticity of a substance being transported in a container through a supply chain comprising:a. providing an entry transmitter for generating a first multi-frequency coded ultrasonic signal and an entry receiver for receiving said first signal after it has passed through the container and through the substance;b. generating an entry identifier of the substance in the container based on said first ultrasonic signal;c. recording said entry identifier at an entry point of said supply chain;d. transporting the substance in the container to a destination;e. providing an exit transmitter for generating a second multi-frequency coded ultrasonic signal and an exit receiver for receiving said second signal after it has passed through the substance and the container;f. generating an exit identifier of the substance in the container based on said second ultrasonic signal; and,g. comparing said entry identifier and said exit identifier to determine whether the substance in the container has ...

Highly-multiplexed nems-array readout system based on superconducting cavity optomechanics

A NEMS readout system includes a sensor array comprising a plurality of sensors. Each sensor of the plurality of sensors including a resonator with frequency characteristics different from the resonator of each other sensor of the plurality of sensors. A readout signal indicative of a plurality of output signals is collected from the sensor array. Each output signal of the plurality of output signals corresponding to one of the plurality of sensors. An analysis of the plurality of output signals is performed to identify a plurality of resonant frequencies and to detect a frequency shift associated with at least one of the plurality of resonant frequencies.

GAS SENSOR

The objective of the present invention is to measure gas concentration with a high degree of accuracy. A gas sensor is provided with: a sensor enclosure: an ultrasonic transducer provided at one end of the sensor enclosure; an ultrasonic wave reflecting surface which is provided at the other end of the sensor enclosure and which intersects an axial direction of the sensor enclosure; and a plurality of ventilation holes provided in a side wall of the sensor enclosure. The plurality of ventilation holes are provided at positions such that one side of the sensor enclosure cannot be seen from the other side thereof when viewed from a side surface side of the sensor enclosure, and each ventilation hole has a shape extending in the axial direction of the sensor enclosure. 1. A gas sensor comprising:a cylindrical body;an ultrasonic transducer disposed at a first end of the cylindrical body;an ultrasonic wave reflecting surface disposed at a second end of the cylindrical body, the ultrasonic wave reflecting surface intersecting an axial direction of the cylindrical body; anda plurality of ventilation holes disposed in a peripheral wall of the cylindrical body, whereinthe plurality of ventilation holes are disposed at locations where a first side of the cylindrical body is invisible from an opposite second side of the cylindrical body through the plurality of ventilation holes viewed from a peripheral face of the cylindrical body, andeach of the ventilation holes has a shape extending in the axial direction of the cylindrical body.2. A gas sensor comprising:a cylindrical body;an ultrasonic transducer disposed at a first end of the cylindrical body;an ultrasonic wave reflecting surface disposed at a second end of the cylindrical body, the ultrasonic wave reflecting surface intersecting an axial direction of the cylindrical body; anda plurality of ventilation holes disposed in a peripheral wall of the cylindrical body, whereinthe plurality of ventilation holes have ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TESTING A TEST OBJECT

The invention comprises a device () for testing a test object (), comprising an excitation system () for generating broadband ultrasound pulses (′) in the test object, a detection system () for detecting ultrasound waves (), which are generated through the broadband ultrasound pulses (′) in the test object () and emitted by the test object (). The device () comprises a processing unit () for processing the detected ultrasound waves (), while the excitation system () being one of a thermoacoustic emitter or a pulsed laser and the detection system () is a broadband detection system. The excitation system () comprises a modulator () for modulating the broadband ultrasound pulses (′). Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for testing a test object. 1101002002503004004014024034044013113213243313413201202203204202112122132142112112212312412401402403404404014024034044030130330430211212213214211311321324331341320120220320420131132132433134131111112112212312412. Device (; ; ; ; ; ) for testing a test object (; ; ; ; ) , comprising an excitation system (; ; ; ; ; ) for generating broadband ultrasound pulses in the test object , a detection system (; ; ; ; ) for detecting ultrasound waves (; ; ; ; ) which are generated through the broadband ultrasound pulses (′; ′; ′; ′; ′) in the test object (; ; ; ; ) and emitted by the test object (; ; ; ; ) , a processing unit (; ; ; ) for processing the detected ultrasound waves (; ; ; ; ) , the excitation system (; ; ; ; ; ) being one of a thermoacoustic emitter or a pulsed laser , the detection system (; ; ; ; ) is a broadband detection system and the excitation system (; ; ; ; ; ) comprises a modulator (; ) for modulating the broadband ultrasound pulses (′; ′; ′; ′; ′).21010020025030040030130330430211212213214211211221231241230130330430131132132433134132012022032042012112212312412. Device (; ; ; ; ; ) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the processing unit (; ; ; ) is able to execute a correlation between a reference ...

TOOTHING ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING CHARACTERISTICS OF A TOOTHING ARRANGEMENT

The invention relates to a toothing arrangement, having at least one first element () which has a toothing (), and having at least one second element () which interacts with the first element (). According to the invention, at least one receiver () is provided which is arranged on the first or on the second element () and which serves for receiving acoustic waves (SAW) which are incited in the first and/or second element (), wherein information regarding characteristics of the toothing arrangement () can be determined through evaluation of a signal which is generated by the receiver () upon receipt of the acoustic waves (SAW). 211. The gearing arrangement as claimed in claim 1 , characterized in that the first element () is a gear wheel.311. The gearing arrangement as claimed in or claim 1 , characterized in that the first element () is a ring gear claim 1 , in particular a planetary transmission claim 1 , a bevel gear claim 1 , a crown gear claim 1 , a hybrid gear or an elliptical gear.412121. The gearing arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims claim 1 , characterized in that the second element () likewise has a gearing ().512. The gearing arrangement as claimed in claim 4 , characterized in that the second element () is a gear rack.611121112. The gearing arrangement as claimed in or claim 4 , characterized in that tooth flanks of the gearings of the first and the second element ( claim 4 , ) extend in a curve or at an angle to a movement direction of the first or the second element ( claim 4 , ).71112. The gearing arrangement as claimed in one of to claim 4 , characterized in that the gearings of the first and the second element ( claim 4 , ) form a cycloidal gearing or involute gearing.821112. The gearing arrangement as claimed in one of the preceding claims claim 4 , characterized by at least one transmitter () for exciting acoustic waves (SAW) in the first and/or second element ( claim 4 , ).921112. The gearing arrangement as claimed in claim 8 , ...

METHOD FOR ACOUSTICALLY DETERMINING PROPERTIES OF A MEDIUM, AND DEVICE FOR ACOUSTICALLY DETERMINING PROPERTIES OF A MEDIUM, COMPRISING A REFLECTIVE ELEMENT

The invention relates in particular to a method for determining physical, chemical, and/or biological properties of a medium (M) located in the interior () of a waveguide () using at least one acoustic wave which has propagated at least partly through the medium (M). According to the invention, a first wall section () and a second wall section () of the waveguide () are connected together via a connection piece () such that a second surface wave (OW) propagates to the first wall section () at least partly via the connection piece (). One of the wall sections () and/or the connection piece () is provided with at least one reflective element () on which at least one pert of a: least one first surface wave (OW) that is excited on the first wall section () by incurs of a transmitter (SE) is reflected ss a third surface wave (OW′). A receiver (SE) is used to receive second and third surface waves (OW OW′) on the first wall section (), and the second and third surface waves are used to determine physical, chemical, and/or biological properties of the medium (M). 1. A method for determining at least one of physical , chemical and/or biological properties of a medium situated in an interior of a waveguide with the aid of at least one acoustic wave which has propagated at least in part through the medium , wherein:a. at least one surface wave is excited by means of a transmitter at an outer surface of a first wall portion of the waveguide that bounds the interior, said surface wave propagating at the first wall portion along a first propagation direction,b. the at least one surface wave excites an acoustic wave propagating in the medium at an inner surface of the first wall portion facing the medium, the propagation direction of said acoustic wave comprising a directional component pointing away from the first wall portion,c. the acoustic wave propagating in the medium at least partly couples into an inner surface of a second wall portion of the waveguide, lying opposite the ...

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.

ULTRASONIC INSPECTION SYSTEM, ULTRASONIC INSPECTION METHOD AND AIRCRAFT STRUCTURAL OBJECT

According to one implementation, an ultrasonic inspection system includes: a first inspection unit, a second inspection unit, and a signal processing system. The first inspection unit acquires a detection signal of a first ultrasonic wave in a first inspection section of an structural object, using a first ultrasonic transducer and a first ultrasonic sensor. The second inspection unit acquires a detection signal of a second ultrasonic wave in a second inspection section of the structural object, using a second ultrasonic transducer and a second ultrasonic sensor. The signal processing system obtains an index value representing inspection information of at least one of the first inspection section and the second inspection section, based on the detection signal of the first ultrasonic wave and the detection signal of the second ultrasonic wave. 1. An ultrasonic inspection system comprising:a first inspection unit that acquires a detection signal of a first ultrasonic wave in a first inspection section of an structural object, using a first ultrasonic transducer and a first ultrasonic sensor;a second inspection unit that acquires a detection signal of a second ultrasonic wave in a second inspection section of the structural object, using a second ultrasonic transducer and a second ultrasonic sensor; anda signal processing circuit that obtains an index value representing inspection information of at least one of the first inspection section and the second inspection section, based on the detection signal of the first ultrasonic wave and the detection signal of the second ultrasonic wave.2. The ultrasonic inspection system according to claim 1 ,wherein the signal processing circuit is adapted to obtain the index value without referring to any of a past detection signal of an ultrasonic wave in the first inspection section and a past detection signal of an ultrasonic wave in the second inspection section.3. The ultrasonic inspection system according to claim 1 , further ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF CAPTURING TRANSIENT ELASTIC VIBRATIONS IN BODIES USING ARRAYS OF TRANSDUCERS FOR INCREASED SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO AND SOURCE DIRECTIONALITY

Provided herein are systems and methods for real time processing of signals from an array of transducers for detecting transient elastic waves originating from unknown locations in a body, which may propagate in a dispersive fashion. The systems and methods allow real time combination and analysis of signals, including decisions regarding storage as new data is received. The methods described herein include designing arrays of detectors and methods for processing signals in real time given the constraints of the body under test determining whether to store the set of information while a new set of information is received for processing within a real time environment. The methods described herein include methods which result in the determination or small time shifts which place all signals into a coherent time base which are then combined achieving a composite waveform that possesses an increased signal-to-noise ratio over any single element. 1. A method comprising:determining in real time whether to store in a computer memory a first set of samples from a plurality of signals from a multi-element transducer array that is coupled to a body of material under test within a real time processing environment, wherein:(a) the first set of samples represents a first time range and ends with a first boundary set of samples that are later also processed along with a second set of samples representing the plurality of signals for a second time range possessing a necessary overlap at the end of the first time range, thereby creating an overlapping plurality of processed samples including samples that are processed with the first set of samples and processed with the second set of samples; i. sensed by a first portion of the multi-element transducer array during the first time range; and', 'ii. sensed by a second portion of the multi-element transducer array during the second time range;, '(b) wherein the overlapping plurality of processed samples is sufficient to capture in the ...

DEVICE FOR DETECTING ANOMALIES IN AN AIRCRAFT TURBINE ENGINE BY ACOUSTIC ANALYSIS

A device for detecting anomalies in an aircraft turbine engine by acoustic analysis, the device not an onboard device and including: a mobile module including a directional system for acquiring acoustic signals from the turbine engine; a processor for processing the signals, which is suitable for generating a damage report; a transmitter for transmitting the damage report; a server capable of exchanging data with the mobile module, the server including a receiver for receiving the damage report; and a storage device suitable for storing the damage report. 1. A device for detecting anomalies by acoustic analysis of an aircraft turbine engine , the device comprising: directional acquisition means to acquire acoustic signals from the turbine machine;', 'means of processing said signals, adapted to generate a damage report;', 'means of transmitting said damage report;, 'at least one mobile module comprising means of reception of the damage report;', 'storage means adapted to store said damage report; wherein the anomalies are detectable by said device without providing said device onboard the aircraft., 'a server capable of exchanging data with the at least one module, said server comprising2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the acquisition means comprise a directional sensor claim 1 , and a parabolic amplifier (AMP).3. The device according to claim 2 , wherein the acquisition means comprise slaving means adapted to control the orientation of the directional sensor.4. The device according to claim 3 , wherein claim 3 , when the aircraft is moving claim 3 , the slaving means adjust the orientation of the sensor depending on the position and trajectory of the aircraft.5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the acquisition means comprise aircraft identification means.6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one module comprises means of recording acoustic signals acquired using the acquisition means.7. The device according claim 1 , wherein ...

Enhanced enclosures for acoustical gas concentration sensing and flow control

Mass-transfer rate control arrangement and method in which a process precursor mixture is produced containing carrier gas and a process precursor gas. A quantity of the process precursor present in the process precursor mixture is acoustically sensed to produce a sensor output. A dilution gas is provided and the process precursor mixture and the dilution gas are separately conveyed to a diution point, at which a diluted mixture of the dilution gas and the process precursor mixture is achieved. A relative flow rate of the carrier gas and the dilution gas is automatically controlled in response to the sensor output such that the diluted mixture at the dilution point has a prescribed mass transfer rate of the precursor gas.

Acoustic Micro Imaging Device with a Scan While Loading Feature

A scanning acoustic microscope comprises a structure including a loading portion and a scanning portion, a transducer disposed in the scanning portion and operable to develop ultrasonic energy, and a controller. A driver is responsive to the controller and is capable of moving the transducer along a scan path with respect to a first plurality of parts disposed in the scanning portion as a second plurality of parts are being loaded into the loading portion. 1a transducer;a memory;a processor;a driver responsive to the memory and the processor that is adapted to move the transducer in a predetermined path with respect to a tray of parts disposed in a scanning area; anda safety enclosure movable from an open position permitting access to the scanning area to a closed position at least partially enclosing the scanning area;wherein the safety enclosure is adapted when in the closed position to prevent interference with the transducer as the driver rapidly moves the transducer in the predetermined path thereby to minimize a possibility of user injury and allow a tray of parts to be loaded while another is being scanned.. A scanning acoustic microscope, comprising: The present application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/304,125, filed Nov. 23, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/416,610, filed Nov. 23, 2010. The entire contents of both of these applications are incorporated herein by reference.Not applicableNot applicable1. Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to a micro imaging device for inspecting a part with a scan while loading feature.2. Description of the Background of the InventionU.S. Pat. No. 7,584,664 is entitled “acoustic micro imaging device having at least one balanced linear motor assembly.” U.S. Pat. No. 7,522,780 is entitled “frequency domain processing of scanning acoustic imaging signals.” U.S. Pat. No. 7,395,713 is entitled “tray-fed scanning microscope ...

Ultrasonic probe

An ultrasonic probe includes: a housing having an opening provided at a first end portion of the housing; a transducer provided in a position corresponding to the opening and configured to generate ultrasonic waves; a heat spreader provided underneath the transducer; and a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed between the transducer and the heat spreader, wherein the heat spreader includes: a body portion configured to absorb heat from the transducer; and a coupling portion that is formed at a side portion of the body portion and coupled to the housing.

Automatic calibration method for checking by ultrasound a composite material structure during production

A monitoring system comprising ultrasound sensors to monitor the structure of a composite material part during production is automatically calibrated using reference sensors mounted on reference blocks and placed in the production environment of the part. The automatic calibration comprises actuating a reference sensor to transmit an ultrasonic wave and measuring the amplitude of a reference echo constituted by the transmitted ultrasonic wave after it has passed through the reference block. The measured amplitude is compared to a set point value and the gain is applied to the reference sensor to obtain an amplitude value of the reference echo substantially equal to the set point value. The gain applied to the reference sensor is applied to the ultrasound sensors of the same type as the reference sensor. The operation is performed for each reference sensor, and successively for all of the stages of production of the part.

DEVICE FOR INSPECTING A STRUCTURE

There is presented a device for being secured to a structure. The device comprising a first portion comprising an element configured to impart mechanical waves to the structure upon application of a voltage and a second portion supporting the element and comprising a body. The body may be elastomeric, flexible, or both. The first and second portions are configured such that the element reacts against the second portion to generate mechanical waves at least partially within the structure. The body attenuates mechanical waves propagating from the first portion and away from the structure. A securing device for securing a mechanical wave generator to a structure and a system comprising the securing device are also presented. 137.-. (canceled)38. A device for being secured to a structure , the device comprising:A) a first portion comprising an element configured to impart mechanical waves to the structure upon application of a voltage, and,B) a second portion supporting the element and comprising a body; wherein the first and second portions are configured such that:the element reacts against the second portion to generate mechanical waves at least partially within the structure;the body attenuates mechanical waves propagating from the first portion and away from the structure,wherein the second portion is flexible and/or the body comprises elastomeric material.39. A device as claimed in configured to be secured to the structure by a securing device.40. A device as claimed in wherein the second portion is configured to electrically isolate the element from the securing device.41. A device as claimed in wherein the body has a Mooney viscosity of at least 50.42. A device as claimed in wherein the body has a Shore A hardness of 50 or higher.43. A device as claimed in wherein the element is a piezoelectric transducer.44. A device as claimed in wherein the element configured to impart mechanical waves comprises a shear polarised piezoelectric transducer.45. A device as ...

SPECIALLY DESIGNED PHASED ARRAY TRANSDUCER FOR THE INSPECTION OF FASTENER HOLES AND ADJACENT STRUCTURE WITHOUT THE REMOVAL OF THE FASTENER

A phased array transducer for inspecting a fastener hole and adjacent structure to identify defects and determine hole integrity without removing the fastener from the hole. The phased array transducer includes a plurality of transducer elements, where one of the transducer elements is used to align the transducer to the hole, one group of the remaining transducer elements inspects the entire thickness of the structure at one side of the fastener and another group of the remaining transducer elements inspects the entire thickness of the structure at an opposite side of the fastener. 1. A phased array transducer for inspecting a fastener hole and adjacent structure without removing a fastener from the hole , said transducer comprising:a body including a upper body portion and a lower body portion; anda plurality of transducer elements positioned in the body, wherein at least one of the transducer elements is a centering transducer element that locates the center of the hole or fastener, said plurality of transducer elements also including two groups of inspection transducer elements, where a first group of the inspection transducer elements inspects one side of the hole and a second group of the inspection transducer elements inspects an opposite side of the hole.2. The transducer according to wherein the body includes a semi-circular cut-out section configured to accept a portion of the fastener.3. The transducer according to wherein the lower body portion is made of a clear or translucent plastic.4. The transducer according to wherein the body is rectangular.5. The transducer according to wherein the plurality of inspection transducer elements is thirty-two transducer elements claim 1 , where the first group of inspection transducer elements is sixteen elements and the second group of inspection transducer elements is sixteen elements.6. The transducer according to further comprising a magnet positioned in the lower body portion.7. The transducer according to ...

ULTRASONIC TESTING FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURED COMPONENTS

A device for use in inspecting a test object is provided. The device can include a body including a first end and a second end. The second end can be opposite the first end. The device can also include a probe receiver located at the first end of the body. The probe receiver can be configured to receive an ultrasonic probe. The device can further include a coupling portion located at the second end of the body. The coupling portion can be configured to position the ultrasonic probe with respect to an axis of force transmission of a test object or normal to one or more material layers of the test object during an ultrasound inspection of the test object. Methods of forming the device and performing ultrasonic inspection of a test object with the device are also provided. 1. A method comprising:receiving data characterizing a test object to be inspected via ultrasonic inspection, the test object formed using a first additive manufacturing technique; andforming an adaptor for use in inspecting the test object, the adaptor formed via the first additive manufacturing technique, the adaptor formed to include a probe receiver and a coupling portion, the probe receiver configured to receive an ultrasonic probe and a coupling portion configured to position the ultrasonic probe with respect to an axis of force transmission of the test object.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining one or more axes of force transmission of the test object.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the adaptor and the test object have been formed from identical additive manufacturing materials claim 1 , the additive manufacturing materials including at least one of a polymer claim 1 , a ceramic claim 1 , or a metal.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first additive manufacturing technique includes at least one of vat polymerization material jetting claim 1 , binder jetting claim 1 , material extrusion claim 1 , power bed fusion claim 1 , sheet lamination claim 1 , or direct energy ...

System and Method for Detecting Failed Electronics Using Acoustics

An apparatus and method for detecting failed electronics using acoustics. The method comprising directing an acoustic wave toward a circuit component to be tested such that the acoustic wave is reflected off the circuit component, receiving the reflected acoustic wave, amplifying the reflected acoustic wave, and comparing the reflected acoustic wave with known acoustic waves to determine if the circuit component is operating properly. The apparatus comprising a data acquisition system for acquiring data, an X-Y-Z positioner to position two transducers and to hold the circuit component, and software to post-process and analyze the data. The data acquisition system further includes an oscilloscope, a puller-receiver, two air-coupled transducers, and an amplifier. 1. A method for detecting failed electronics using acoustics , the method comprising:moving two acoustic transducers over a test piece;generating an acoustic wave that s directed towards the test piece;reflecting the acoustic wave off the test piece;receiving the reflected acoustic wave, the reflected acoustic wave having an amplitude;adjusting distance of the transducers from the test piece such that the amplitude of the reflected acoustic wave is maximized;amplifying the reflected acoustic wave;sampling the reflected acoustic wave;digitizing the reflected acoustic wave;digitally storing data from reflected acoustic wave data;averaging the reflected acoustic wave data and finding a sample rate;saving the reflected acoustic wave data and the sample rate to a file;processing the file to remove data that occurs before and after the acoustic wave in time;extracting features from the data in the file, the features including total energy, average rate of change between two peaks, sample duration in time, difference in amplitude between a smallest peak above noise level and a global maximum peak in a time domain, time to maximum peak from a first peak, total power, center frequency, bandwidth, maximum amplitude of ...

Capacitive transducer and ultrasonic probe using same

A capacitive transducer includes an element including a plurality of cells. Each of the cells includes a first electrode and a vibrating membrane including a second electrode opposed to the first electrode via a gap. The second electrode of one of the plurality of cells is electrically connected to the second electrode of at least one adjoining cell by first electrical wiring. The first electrical wiring over the gap of a first cell provided on a periphery of the element among the plurality of cells has a structure different from that of the first electrical wiring over the gap of a second cell provided on an inner side of the element than the first cell is.

Fast pattern recognition using ultrasound

Systems and methods for ultrasonic testing are provided. An ultrasonic probe including a phased transducer array can transmit a plurality of ultrasonic beams (e.g., plane waves) oriented at different directions simultaneously into a target. The plurality of ultrasonic transducers transmitting the ultrasonic waves can also receive ultrasonic echoes resulting from reflection of the plurality of plane waves from the target. Each ultrasonic transducer can measure a single A-scan characterizing the ultrasonic echoes received at that ultrasonic transducer. Based upon A-scans received from the plurality of transducers, a controller can generate an image representing the target and output the image for display by a display device substantially concurrently with transmission of the ultrasonic waves, allowing for real-time display.

METHODS OF OPERATING ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCERS, AND ULTRASONIC DEVICES

A method of operating a capacitive ultrasonic transducer may include: applying a first driving signal to a first electrode to generate a transmission pulse voltage during a transmission period; and/or applying a second driving signal to a second electrode to generate a transmission bias voltage during the transmission period and a receiving bias voltage, different from the transmission bias voltage, during a receiving period. A method of operating an ultrasonic transducer, including a pair of electrodes receiving pulse and DC bias voltages, may include: modulating the DC bias voltage into a transmission bias voltage and superposing the transmission bias and pulse voltages so as to apply the superposed voltage to the electrodes in a transmission mode; and/or modulating the DC bias voltage into a receiving bias voltage, different from the transmission bias voltage, and applying the receiving bias voltage to one of the electrodes in a receiving mode. 1. A method of operating a capacitive ultrasonic transducer including a pair of electrodes , the method comprising:applying a first driving signal to one of the pair of electrodes to generate a transmission pulse voltage during a transmission period; andapplying a second driving signal to the other of the pair of electrodes to generate a transmission bias voltage during the transmission period and a receiving bias voltage that is different from the transmission bias voltage during a receiving period.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method satisfies the following conditions:Vd=Vpulse_Tx+Vbias_TxVbias_Tx:Vpulse_Tx=about 30:70 to about 40:60where Vpulse_Tx refers to the transmission pulse voltage, Vbias_Tx refers to the transmission bias voltage, and Vd refers to a transmission driving voltage.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method satisfies the following conditions:Vbias_Rx:Vpulse_Rx=about 60:40 to about 70:30where Vbias_Rx refers to the receiving bias voltage, Vpulse_Rx refers to a receiving pulse voltage ...

III-V NITRIDE RESONATE STRUCTURE BASED PHOTOACOUSTIC SENSOR

A microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor is generally provided. In one embodiment, the microcantilever includes: a substrate; a GaN layer on the substrate, wherein the GaN layer defines a cantilever extending beyond an edge of the substrate, with a base area of the cantilever defined by the area spanning the edge of the substrate; a HFET deflection transducer positioned on the cantilever; a pair of electrical contacts, each electrically connected to the HFET deflection transducer; and a microfluidic channel in fluid communication with an analyte reservoir, wherein the analyte reservoir is positioned at the base of the cantilever. A sensing system is also generally provided. 1. A microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor , comprising:a substrate;a GaN layer on the substrate, wherein the GaN layer defines a cantilever extending beyond an edge of the substrate, with a base area of the cantilever defined by the area spanning the edge of the substrate;a HFET deflection transducer positioned on the cantilever;a pair of electrical contacts, each electrically connected to the HFET deflection transducer; anda microfluidic channel in fluid communication with an analyte reservoir, wherein the analyte reservoir is positioned at the base of the cantilever.2. The microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor of claim 1 , wherein the HFET deflection transducer comprises an AlGaN layer.3. The microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor of claim 1 , further comprising:a sapphire window positioned over the microfluidic channel such that the microfluidic channels are encapsulated.4. The microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor of claim 3 , wherein the microcantilever is encapsulated by the sapphire window within a vacuum.5. The microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor of claim 1 , wherein the microfluidic channels and the reservoir are defined by surfaces coated with parylene.6. The microcantilever based photoacoustic sensor of claim 5 , wherein the parylene has a thickness of ...

System, Method, and Apparatus for Detecting Air in a Fluid Line Using Active Rectification

A circuit for detecting air, a related system, and a related method are provided. The circuit for detecting air includes a receiver connection and an air-detection circuit. The receiver connection is configured to provide a receiver signal. The air-detection circuit is in operative communication with the receiver connection to process the receiver signal to generate a processed signal corresponding to detected air. The air-detection circuit includes one or more active-rectifying elements configured to actively rectify the receiver signal to provide the processed signal.

Systems and Methods to Determine and Monitor Changes in Rail Conditions

The embodiments disclosed herein relate to various systems and methods for determining the residual stress in polycrystalline materials.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TAGGING AND ACOUSTICALLY CHARACTERIZING CONTAINERS

Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for tagging and acoustically characterizing containers. 1providing the container, the container: originating from within a mold and comprising at least one vertical sidewall; and a bottom coupled to the at least one vertical sidewall wherein the bottom has an interior side, an exterior side, and a thickness and includes a plurality of recesses, grooves, or protrusions on the exterior side for acoustic characterization of the container;transmitting an acoustic signal toward the bottom;receiving a plurality of reflections of the acoustic signal, wherein the plurality of reflections comprises a first reflection from a first subset of the plurality of recesses, grooves, or protrusions a second reflection from a second subset of the plurality of recesses, grooves, or protrusions, the first reflection having a first time of flight and the second reflection having a second time of flight; andcharacterizing the container based on the first and second times of flight, wherein the characterizing comprises determining a characteristic of the container,wherein (a) the characteristic is associated with a location in the mold from which the container originates or (b) the mold is one of a plurality of molds and the characteristic is associated with the mold.. A method for acoustically characterizing a container configured to hold a fluid, the method comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. 16,705,807, filed Dec. 6, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. 15/289,692, filed Oct. 10, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/240,412, filed Oct. 12, 2015, and all entitled “Systems and Methods for Tagging and Acoustically Characterizing Containers,” the entire contents of all applications are incorporated by reference herein.This application relates to tagging containers, such as containers formed using injection molding. But ...

IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO WIND TURBINE BLADE MANUFACTURE

A method of making and testing a wind turbine blade comprises providing a structural member having a web portion and a flange portion, where the flange portion extends away from the web portion and a curvilinear heel is defined between the web and flange portions. 5 A flange extender is integrated with the flange portion, where a first section of the flange extender overlies the flange portion, and a second section of the flange extender extends past the heel and away from the web portion. The flange extender is bonded to the inner surface of a wind turbine blade shell. Non-destructive test (NDT) equipment is used to assess the integrity of the bond by identifying first and second target surfaces of the 10 structural member. The target surfaces are spaced apart by an intermediate region, corresponding to the location of the heel, where it is not possible to positively identify any surface using NDT techniques. Identification of the two target surfaces indicates a good integrity bond in the intermediate region, whereas identification of only one, or neither, of the target surfaces indicates a poor integrity bond. 15 1. A method of producing a wind turbine blade , the method comprising: a web member having a web portion and a flange portion extending away from the web portion, wherein the web member comprises a heel of substantially curvilinear form located between the web portion and the flange portion; and', 'a flange extender integrated with the flange portion of the web member, wherein a first section of the flange extender overlies the flange portion and a second section of the flange extender extends past the heel and away from the web portion of the web member;, 'providing a structural web comprisingbonding the flange extender of the structural web to the inner surface of a windward or leeward wind turbine blade shell using an adhesive to form an adhesive bond; andusing non-destructive ultrasonic test equipment to assess the integrity of the adhesive bond, ...