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Небесная энциклопедия

Космические корабли и станции, автоматические КА и методы их проектирования, бортовые комплексы управления, системы и средства жизнеобеспечения, особенности технологии производства ракетно-космических систем

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Мониторинг СМИ

Мониторинг СМИ и социальных сетей. Сканирование интернета, новостных сайтов, специализированных контентных площадок на базе мессенджеров. Гибкие настройки фильтров и первоначальных источников.

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Поддерживает ввод нескольких поисковых фраз (по одной на строку). При поиске обеспечивает поддержку морфологии русского и английского языка
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Применить Всего найдено 5102. Отображено 100.
01-03-2012 дата публикации

Low profile encircling ultrasonic probe for the inspection of in-situ piping in immersion mode

Номер: US20120053856A1
Принадлежит: Individual

An ultrasonic probe encircles the perimeter of a target component to be ultrasonically tested and has a base and a pair of jaws pivotally mounted to the base at opposite ends of an arcuate inner surface of the base to encircle a target component with arcuate inner surfaces of the jaws as well. The inner surfaces form a coupling fluid chamber with an outer surface of the target component. Front and rear sets of seals connected to and extending along front and rear portions of the arcuate inner surfaces seal the chamber so that it can retain a coupling fluid such as water. An arcuate set of ultrasonic transducers is connected along at least one but preferably all of the arcuate inner surfaces for transmitting ultrasonic signals to the coupling fluid chamber and into the target component.

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15-03-2012 дата публикации

Test probe as well as family of test probes for the non-destructive testing of a workpiece by means of ultrasonic sound and testing device

Номер: US20120060612A1

The invention relates to a test probe 10 for the non-destructive testing of a workpiece by means of ultrasonic sound. The test probe has an ultrasonic transducer 20 for the generation of an ultrasonic field, which is coupled acoustically to a delay line body 12, which is provided to be attached for a coupling of the ultrasonic field into the workpiece on a surface of the workpiece. Furthermore, the invention relates to a family of test probes as well as to a testing device for the non-destructive testing of a workpiece by means of ultrasonic sound, with a test probe 10, whose ultrasonic transducer 20 has a majority of independently controllable individual oscillators. Furthermore, a control unit 50 is provided, which is equipped to control the individual oscillators of the ultrasonic transducer 20 with phase accuracy in such a way, that a sound field rotationally symmetrical to the central beam is generated. The test probe or the family of test probes and the testing device are suitable in particular for the angular intromission of sound or for a utilization on curved workpiece surface areas.

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19-07-2012 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20120180570A1
Принадлежит: IHI Southwest Technologies Inc

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.

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13-09-2012 дата публикации

Multi-probe rail scanning/encoder system and certified method of use thereof

Номер: US20120227502A1
Принадлежит: National Railroad Passenger Corp

A rail scanning system and certified method of use thereof are described. The rail scanning system comprises a control unit, a probe carriage, and an encoder. The probe carriage comprises two or more phased array probes. The control unit is communicatively coupled with the encoder and phased array probes of the probe carriage.

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03-01-2013 дата публикации

Inspection System And Methods For Integral Seals

Номер: US20130000407A1
Принадлежит: Caterpillar Inc

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

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24-01-2013 дата публикации

Multi-part mounting device for an ultrasonic transducer

Номер: US20130019702A1

A multi-part mounting device for an ultrasonic transducer, the mounting device comprising a first part configured to mount the mounting device on a housing of an ultrasonic test probe, and a second part configured to retain the ultrasonic transducer, wherein the second part is at least in touching contact with the ultrasonic transducer, wherein the second part comprises a first plastic and is connected by positive fit to the first part, and wherein the first part has a greater hardness than the second part.

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04-04-2013 дата публикации

Method and apparatus for ultrasonic testing

Номер: US20130081468A1
Автор: Roman Koch, Stephan Falter
Принадлежит: General Electric Co

A method for ultrasonic testing of an object, the method comprising ultrasonic scanning of a plurality of scan regions of the object; converting ultrasonic echoes of the ultrasonic scanning into a plurality of electrical signals; gating the electrical signals to provide gated signals; and wherein different gating times are used for the electrical signals.

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18-04-2013 дата публикации

LOW PROFILE ULTRASOUND INSPECTION SCANNER

Номер: US20130091951A1
Автор: BRIGNAC Jacques L.
Принадлежит: ALSTOM Technology Ltd

An inspection scanner is described that has a low profile construction designed to fit into tight spaces and inspect structures such as weld joints. Wheel frame assemblies carry a probe holder assembly with an ultrasonic (US) array that emits US beams through the structure and receives reflected sound waves. The probe holder assembly extends and US beam is angled away to inspect in tight locations. The wheel frame assemblies roll on wheels that drive an encoder. Encoder provides the specific locations for the received sound waves with respect to the weld. The locations and received sound waves are used to reconstruct a signal showing imperfections inside of structure. The wheels may be magnetic to hold it to the structure being inspected. A brake system may be employed to hold the inspection scanner at a given location. 1. An inspection scanner having a lower profile that prior art designs , for transmitting and receiving ultrasound beams for inspecting a volume of a structure comprising:at least one wheel frame;a ultrasound (US) array adapted to scan said volume of said structure with ultrasonic beams angled away from said wheel frame and to receive ultrasound signals reflected back to the array, the array attached to, and carried by wheel frame;wheels attached to the wheel frame for carrying the wheel frame, the wheels allowed to rotate moving the frame in a forward direction or a reverse direction, along a surface of said structure;a brake to lock the wheels in place;an encoder adapted to monitor rotation of the wheels and location on said structure, and adapted to send an encoder signal corresponding to the received ultrasound signals such that each received ultrasound signal is identified with a location of said US array on said structure.2. The inspection scanner of claim 1 , further comprising:a probe holder assembly adapted to be adjustable for carrying the US array, the probe holder assembly moveable to extend the US array to various locations without ...

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18-04-2013 дата публикации

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING TRANSDUCERS OF AN ULTRASONIC PROBE, CORRESPONDING COMPUTER PROGRAM AND ULTRASONIC PROBE DEVICE

Номер: US20130094328A1

A method for controlling ultrasonic transducers of an ultrasonic probe for inspecting an object includes: iterated at least twice, receiving from the transducers new measurement signals; measuring echoes due to reflections of ultrasonic waves on the object, the ultrasonic waves having emission delays with respect to one another, the emission delays having been determined from initial emission delays and all complementary emission delays determined previously; determining new complementary emission delays from the new measurement signals; controlling the transducers so they emit ultrasonic waves to the object, the ultrasonic waves having emission delays with respect to one another, the emission delays having been determined from the initial emission delays and all the complementary emission delays determined previously. 110-. (canceled)11. A method for controlling ultrasonic transducers of an ultrasonic probe for inspecting an object , comprising:{'sup': '0', 'controlling the transducers so they emit towards the object ultrasound waves having initial emission delays Ewith respect to one another;'}{'sup': '0', 'receiving from the transducers measurement signals S, measuring echoes due to reflections of the ultrasound waves on the object;'}{'sup': 1', '0, 'determining complementary emission delays Efrom the measurement signals S; and'}{'sup': 1', '1', '0', '1, 'controlling the transducers so they emit towards the object ultrasound waves having emission delays Lwith respect to one another, the emission delays Lhaving been determined from the initial emission delays Eand the complementary emission delays E;'}further comprising, iterated at least once, with the iteration number being denoted p:{'sup': p', 'p', 'p', '0', '1', 'p, 'receiving from the transducers new measurement signals S, measuring echoes due to reflections of the ultrasound waves on the object, the ultrasound waves having emission delays Lwith respect to one another, the emission delays Lhaving been ...

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23-05-2013 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR EXAMINING AN OBJECT, IN PARTICULAR FOR INSPECTING PERSONS FOR SUSPICIOUS ITEMS

Номер: US20130126738A1
Автор: JECK Michael
Принадлежит: SMITHS HEIMANN GMBH

For examining objects, in particular for inspecting persons for suspicious items, devices having a scanning system for scanning the object and having an evaluating system are known. An optical marking system is provided, which indicates the position of an item classified as suspicious on the object itself or in a mirror image of the object by means of visible light. 1. A device for examining an object , in particular for inspecting a person for suspicious items , the device comprising:a scanning system for scanning the object with waves;an analysis system; andan optical marking system configured to indicate a position of an item categorized as suspicious via visible light on the object itself or in a mirror image of the object.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the scanning system contains a plurality of antennas arranged in an array claim 1 , wherein the antenna array is covered by a cover that is permeable to the waves used and at least partially reflects visible light to produce a mirror image of the object claim 1 , and wherein the optical marking system indicates the position of an item categorized as suspicious in the mirror image of the object produced on the cover.3. The device according to claim 2 , wherein an optical system projects a light marking onto the cover.4. The device according to claim 3 , wherein a row of individually controllable light sources is arranged on an edge of the array claim 3 , the light sources being configured to be activated individually to mark a position of a suspicious item via light rays.5. The device according to claim 2 , wherein a plurality of individually controllable light sources are arranged between the antennas in the array whose light passes through the partially permeable cover claim 2 , marking the position of a suspicious item as a mirror image.6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein an optical system projects a marking on the object being examined.7. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the ...

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30-05-2013 дата публикации

APPARATUS FOR PIPELINE INSPECTION

Номер: US20130133429A1
Принадлежит:

An apparatus for pipeline inspection, the apparatus comprising a body comprising a longitudinal axis, an array of ultrasonic sensors configured to inspect a pipe wall, a skid comprising an outer surface configured to run adjacent to, or in contact with, the pipe wall, wherein the array of ultrasonic sensors are arranged at a stand off from the outer surface of the skid, and a chamber comprising an ultrasonic couplant, wherein the ultrasonic couplant permits ultrasound communication between the array of ultrasonic sensors and an inner surface of the pipe wall. 1. An apparatus for pipeline inspection , the apparatus comprising:a body comprising a longitudinal axis;an array of ultrasonic sensors configured to inspect a pipe wall;a skid comprising an outer surface configured to run adjacent to, or in contact with, the pipe wall, wherein the array of ultrasonic sensors are arranged at a stand off from the outer surface of the skid; anda chamber comprising an ultrasonic couplant, wherein the ultrasonic couplant permits ultrasound communication between the array of ultrasonic sensors and an inner surface of the pipe wall.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic couplant comprises a liquid or a gel.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the chamber forms part of the skid.4. The apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the chamber comprises a membrane region which extends over the array of ultrasonic sensors claim 3 , wherein the membrane region forms part of the outer surface of the skid.5. The apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the skid comprises a peripheral region around the membrane region claim 4 , wherein the rigidity of the peripheral region is greater than the rigidity of the membrane region claim 4 , and wherein the peripheral region is configured to maintain a predetermined stand off between the outer surface of the skid and the array of ultrasonic sensors.6. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a sensor ...

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06-06-2013 дата публикации

Method for Inspection of Materials for Defects

Номер: US20130144368A1
Принадлежит: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.

The present invention is a non-destructive method of inspecting a bond, particularly a braze bond, in a hermetic package. The invention involves a unique hermetic package design adapted for ultrasonic inspection and a method of inspecting the package. This package and non-destructive inspection process are particularly useful in implantable neural stimulators such as visual prostheses. 1. A method according to inspecting a bond in a hermetic package comprising: a bottom having an inside surface, an outside surface and a side surface,', 'a top having a first lip in contact with the side surface,', 'a bond attaching the top to the inside surface, wherein the bond is parallel to and sufficiently proximate to the outside surface to allow acoustic inspection;, 'providing a hermetic package comprisingscanning the hermetic package with acoustic energy;receiving reflected acoustic energy from the step of scanning; anddetermining the quality of the bond from the reflected acoustic energy.2. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the acoustic energy is ultrasonic energy.3. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the step of scanning is scanning with acoustic micro imaging.4. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the step of scanning is scanning with scanning acoustic microscopy.5. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the bond is selected from the group consisting of a braze bond and a solder bond.6. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the top and the bottom are optically opaque.7. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the top and the bottom are selected from the group consisting of a metal and a ceramic.8. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the reflected acoustic energy identifies gaps in the bond.9. The method of inspecting a bond according to claim 1 , wherein the reflected acoustic energy ...

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04-07-2013 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20130167646A1
Принадлежит: Individual

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

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01-08-2013 дата публикации

Ultrasound probing device, method of controlling transducers of an ultrasound probe and corresponding computer program

Номер: US20130194895A1

An ultrasound probing device including: a box; a locating mechanism to provide a position of the box in relation to a reference frame associated with an object to be examined; a mechanism to determine a delay law based on focusing parameters, representing a desired position of a focal point in relation to a reference frame associated with the box; a controller to provide control signals based on the delay law; transducers attached to the box, to receive control signals and, in response, to transmit ultrasonic waves in the object respectively delayed according to the delay law to focus at the focal point defined by the focusing parameters; and a mechanism updating the focusing parameters based on predefined associations between positions on a desired path of the box in relation to the reference frame associated with the object and corresponding focusing parameter values and the position of the box.

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29-08-2013 дата публикации

APPARATUS FOR DETECTING DEFECTS

Номер: US20130220020A1
Принадлежит: HERZOG SERVICES, INC.

An apparatus for detecting defects in a railway rail mounted on a test vehicle. The apparatus includes a transducer assembly with one or more arrays of ultrasonic transducers directed toward the running surface of the rail. Beams transmitted by the one or more arrays of ultrasonic transducers may be dynamically adjusted to compensate for the varying profile of the rail head and running surface. A laser profiler mounted on the test vehicle in combination with a linear encoder provide profile data, which is communicated to a system controller to dynamically adjust the focal laws for the one or more arrays of transducers to steer the transmitted beams to produce the ideal inspection beam sets while the test vehicle is in motion. 1. An inspection apparatus for inspecting a railway rail comprising:position means for determining a position of the inspection apparatus along the rail and providing position data,a profiler system configured to output profile data corresponding to a profile of the rail,a transducer assembly having a first ultrasonic phased array transducer directed toward the rail and configured to emit an ultrasonic beam into the rail and receive a return signal, anda system controller coupled to said position means to receive position data therefrom, coupled to said profiler system to receive profile data therefrom, and coupled to said transducer assembly,said system controller responsive to said profile data to energize said transducer assembly to emit said ultrasonic beam into the rail at a desired angle,said system controller responsive to said return signal, said profile data and said position data to present a two dimensional representation of the inspected rail.2. The inspection apparatus of wherein said system controller is responsive to said return signal claim 1 , said profile data and said position data to present a three dimensional representation of the inspected rail.3. The inspection apparatus of wherein said position means includes an encoder ...

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31-10-2013 дата публикации

METHOD AND SYSTEM OF USING 1.5D PHASED ARRAY PROBE FOR CYLINDRICAL PARTS INSPECTION

Номер: US20130283918A1
Принадлежит:

A method of using a 1.5D array ultrasonic probe as a component of an inspection system intended for different diameter cylindrical parts without mechanical adjustments of the probe is presented. In particular, the method is presented as a way to improve the near surface resolution over an extended range of cylindrical parts diameter and inspection depths/tubes wall thickness with respect to usual 1D arrays of fixed curvature along the elevation axis. The method relies on a customizable concentric firing pattern of the acoustic pulses with respect to the cylindrical part surface, and on adjustment of the aperture size of the said array. The intended effect is to sharpen and minimize the extent of the front wall echo and to optimize the response from an eventual flaw in the inspected range. 1. An ultrasonic inspection system configured to be coupled with a 1.5D array acoustic probe , the probe including a plurality of transducers arranged in a linear bi-dimensional matrix and being engaged with a test surface of a cylindrical test object during the inspection of the test object , and the probe is operable by the system with an optimal size of aperture ,the system comprises,an acquisition unit configured to execute desired focal laws to energize the probe to emit an acoustic field and receive corresponding response signals; a probe control module providing a set of required inspection parameters pertaining to the cylindrical test object,', 'an aperture optimization module providing the optimal size of the aperture according to the required inspection parameters,', 'a concentric delay module providing delay-based concentric focal laws as the desired focal laws for the optimal aperture, and the desired focal laws are subsequently provided to the acquisition unit for energizing the probe., 'a data processing and control unit for analyzing and displaying inspection result based on the response signals, the processing and control unit further comprising,'}2. The system of ...

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07-11-2013 дата публикации

Internal stringer inspection system for integrated structures

Номер: US20130291641A1
Автор: Allison Jean Wright
Принадлежит: Spirit AeroSystems Inc

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.

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28-11-2013 дата публикации

ACOUSTIC-WAVE ACQUISITION APPARATUS

Номер: US20130312526A1
Автор: Oishi Takuji
Принадлежит: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA

With a detector in which detection elements are placed in a spherical shape, a uniform resolution area is narrow. 1. An acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus equipped with a detector including a plurality of detection elements that receive acoustic waves from a subject , the receiving surfaces of at least some of the detection elements being at different angles , the apparatus comprisinga scanning unit configured to move at least one of the subject and the detector to change the relative position of the subject and a highest-resolution area determined depending on the placement of the detection elements.2. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe detector is a container whose subject-side surface is a spherical surface, andthe detection elements are placed on the spherical surface.3. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the scanning unit moves at least one of the subject and the detector in three dimensions.4. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a control unit configured to control the movement of the scanning unit.5. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a holding member configured to hold the subject.6. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a shape measurement unit configured to measure the outer shape of the subject.7. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 5 , whereinthe detection elements are placed in a hemispherical shape, andthe diameter of the hemispherical shape including the detection elements is twice or more of the outside diameter of the holding member.8. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit controls the scanning unit so as to move at least one of the subject and the detector in the direction of the gradient of the resolution.9. The acoustic-wave acquisition apparatus according claim 2 , ...

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19-12-2013 дата публикации

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PICKLING AND SIMULTANEOUSLY CHECKING A PART BY ACOUSTIC MEANS

Номер: US20130333475A1
Принадлежит: AIRBUS OPERATIONS (S.A.S)

A device for implementing a method for pickling/stripping and for simultaneously non-destructively checking a part (), the device including: 18-. (canceled)10. The method according to claim 9 , wherein the acoustic response is measured by laser interferometry.11. The method according to wherein the pulse energy generated in step a) is 6 joules for a pulse duration of 100 ns.12. The method according to claim 11 , wherein the pulse energy is distributed over a substantially rectangular surface area measuring 5×40 mm.13. A device for implementing a method according to claim 12 , characterised in that it comprises:a. an energising laser head such as a TEA CO2 laser head capable of generating a pulsed energisation on the surface of a part;b. a detection laser head connected to the energising laser head;c. means for producing a controlled, relative movement of the laser heads in relation to the part;d. a confocal interferometer such as a Fabry-Pérot interferometer.14. The device according to claim 13 , wherein the detection laser is an Nd-YAG-type laser.15. The device according to claim 13 , wherein the detection laser is a pulsed fibre laser using a wavelength of 1 μm.16. The device according to claim 13 , wherein it comprises data acquisition and storage means in addition to display means capable of mapping the acoustic response of the part. The invention relates to a device and a method for pickling and simultaneously checking a part. It is inscribed within the field of non-destructive testing and is particularly suited to the surface treatment and inspection of the material integrity of parts with large dimensions made from composite material.The material integrity inspection for large parts is a particularly long operation and is essential for parts whose in-service behaviour is critical, particularly in the aeronautics field.Among the non-destructive testing methods particularly suited to detecting defects capable of developing in a catastrophic manner when in ...

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26-12-2013 дата публикации

Ultrasonic testing device with conical array

Номер: US20130340530A1
Автор: York Oberdoerfer
Принадлежит: General Electric Co

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.

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02-01-2014 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20140000372A1
Принадлежит: SNECMA SAS

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.

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09-01-2014 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC WHEEL SCANNER

Номер: US20140007689A1
Принадлежит: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED

A scanner comprises a scanning array mounted within a rotatable assembly having a first wheel on a first side, a second wheel on a second side and a membrane forming a drum around the array wherein a load path is provided between the wheels to divert load from the membrane such that it can be made thinner. 1. An ultrasound scanner comprising:an ultrasound array defining a scanning vector, a first member mounted at a first end of the array for rotation about a first axis,', 'a second member mounted at a second, opposite end of the array for rotation about the first axis, and,', 'a flexible coupling component extending between the first and second members to form a closed volume around the array, the coupling component having a workpiece contact surface intersected by the scanning vector,, 'a coupling assembly havingin which the first member and the second member are connected for synchronous rotation by a drive mechanism independent of the flexible coupling component.2. An ultrasound scanner according to in which the drive mechanism comprises a drive shaft rotatable about a second axis parallel to and offset from the first axis.3. An ultrasound scanner according to in which the drive shaft is journalled in a bearing sleeve mounted fixed relative to the scanner.4. An ultrasound scanner according to in which the drive shaft comprises a first gear formation engaged with a corresponding gear formation on the first member.5. An ultrasound scanner according to in which the drive shaft comprises a second gear formation engaged with a corresponding gear formation on the second member.6. An ultrasound scanner according to in which the member gear formations are ring gears defining radially inwardly facing gear teeth.7. An ultrasound scanner according to comprising a further coupling component extending between the members claim 1 , the further coupling component being contracted from a stiffer material than the flexible coupling component.8. An ultrasound scanner according to ...

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16-01-2014 дата публикации

TRANSDUCER MODULE INCLUDING CURVED SURFACE FRAME, ULTRASONIC PROBE INCLUDING TRANSDUCER MODULE, AND METHOD OF PRODUCING CURVED SURFACE FRAME

Номер: US20140013850A1
Принадлежит:

A transducer module includes a curved surface frame which is formed from a flexible material in a curved shape and includes a front surface and a rear surface; a transducer which is disposed on the front surface; and a support frame which is mounted on the rear surface and supports the curved surface frame. 1. A transducer module comprising:a curved surface frame which is formed from a flexible material in a curved shape and comprises a front surface and a rear surface;a transducer which is disposed on the front surface; anda support frame which is mounted on the rear surface and supports the curved surface frame.2. The transducer module according to claim 1 , wherein the curved surface frame is formed in a convex shape or a concave shape in a direction toward the front surface.3. The transducer module according to claim 1 , wherein the flexible material is at least one of silicon claim 1 , silicon oxide claim 1 , quartz claim 1 , glass claim 1 , polymer claim 1 , and metal.4. The transducer module according to claim 1 , wherein the front surface of the curved surface frame comprises a groove claim 1 , andthe transducer is disposed in the groove.5. The transducer module according to claim 1 , wherein the transducer is tiled and disposed on the front surface of the curved surface frame.6. The transducer module according to claim 1 , wherein:the support frame comprises a substrate configured to control an electrical signal applied to the transducer; andthe substrate comprises a curved substrate or a flexible substrate.7. A method of producing a curved surface frame for a transducer module configured to be disposed on a front surface of the curved surface frame claim 1 , the method comprising:acquiring a master mold by polishing or cutting a back surface of a thicker mold formed of a flexible material;forming on a front surface of the master mold a first embossment pattern or a first intaglio pattern;forming a second intaglio pattern or a second embossment pattern on a ...

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23-01-2014 дата публикации

Non-destructive evaluation methods for machine-riveted bearings

Номер: US20140020467A1
Принадлежит: Honeywell International Inc

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

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13-02-2014 дата публикации

IMAGING BY EXTRAPOLATION OF VECTOR-ACOUSTIC DATA

Номер: US20140043939A1
Автор: Vasconcelos Ivan
Принадлежит: WESTERNGECO L.L.C.

Methods for wavefield extrapolation using measurements of a wavefield quantity and a component of the gradient of the wavefield quantity are disclosed. The methods use “exact” representations of scattering reciprocity. The methods can yield “exact”, nonlinear, “true-amplitude” receiver wavefields that are beyond the receiver measurement boundary. Methods of evaluating/validating the extrapolated data are also disclosed. Some methods may also evaluate the accuracy of models for the areas where data are extrapolated or measured. These methods can be used in any industries involving imaging, such as geophysical/seismic exploration, bio-medical imaging, non-destructive remote sensing, acoustic space architecture, design and engineering. 11000152150150130140110140120140132130140. A method () for extrapolating wavefield () data within an unknown object () where the unknown object () is located outside of a boundary () of a measurement volume () , wherein at least one source () is located within the measurement volume () and a plurality of receivers () are used in the measurement volume () to measure a wavefield quantity and a component of a gradient of the wavefield quantity , where the component of the gradient of the wavefield quantity is normal () to the boundary () of the measurement volume () , the method comprising:{'b': 130', '1030', '120, 'using a first model to derive derived data of a wavefield quantity and a component of its gradient at one or more receiver locations, wherein the receiver locations are on the boundary () and wherein the component is normal to the boundary of the measurement volume () at the receiver location (); and'}{'b': 150', '1040, 'jointly extrapolating the wavefield data within the unknown object () using the measured data and the derived data according to a reciprocity scattering relation ().'}2. The extrapolation method of claim 1 , wherein the reciprocity scattering relation is in the form of a correlation or a convolution.3. The ...

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20-03-2014 дата публикации

Profiling tool for determining material thickness for inspection sites having complex topography

Номер: US20140076053A1
Принадлежит: Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd AECL

A phased array ultrasonic probe may be mounted to a component to be inspected for wall thickness on an apparatus that includes a split ring adapted to be magnetically held in place on the component. In particular, the probe may be mounted to a carriage connected to the split ring in a manner that allows the carriage to rotate around the split ring while the probe is in operation. Between the probe and the component, a transducer shoe defining, by a flexible membrane, a cavity and an aperture. Conveniently, the construction of the flexible membrane allows wall thickness measurements to be acquired in portions of the component that have complex topography, such as welds. The apparatus is installed on an adaptor assembly for inspection of straight section of pipes. This adaptor assembly is not used in absence of straight section. By acquiring data from multiple output pulse transmitted at multiple incidence angles, processing software may conveniently produce an accurate wall thickness map of the area of interest on the component.

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01-01-2015 дата публикации

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDUCTING PHASED ARRAY TESTING

Номер: US20150000409A1
Принадлежит:

A system for conducting phased array testing on a vehicle hub includes a guide element having a first end and a second end, a pivot element extending from the second end to couple to the vehicle hub, and a slide element coupled to the guide element. The slide element is movable relative to the guide element between the first end of the guide element and the second end of the guide element. The slide element including an object-receiving aperture to receive a phased array probe element. 1. A system for conducting phased array testing on a vehicle hub comprising:a guide element having a first end and a second end;a pivot element extending from the second end to couple to the vehicle hub; anda slide element coupled to the guide element, the slide element movable relative to the guide element between the first end of the guide element and the second end of the guide element, the slide element including an object-receiving aperture to receive a phased array probe element.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system further includes a hub having a threaded center hole claim 1 , and wherein the pivot element extends through an aperture in the second end of the guide element and into the threaded center hole to releasably and rotatably couple the guide element to the hub.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the slide element is rotatable 360 degrees about the threaded center hole.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the guide element includes positioning apertures and the slide element includes an alignment aperture that aligns with the positioning apertures on the guide element as the slide element is moved relative to the guide element.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the system further includes a threaded fastener element that extends through one of the positioning apertures on the guide element and the alignment aperture on the slide element to lock relative movement of the guide element and the slide element.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the slide element includes ...

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01-01-2015 дата публикации

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SCANNING AN OBJECT

Номер: US20150000410A1
Принадлежит:

The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for scanning an object. Two virtual, orthogonal axes are positioned on a surface of the object. A scanning path of a moving probe is controlled as a function of the two virtual, orthogonal axes. The scanning path can include a plurality of probe positions determined according to a desired coverage of the object. A single probe can be used or, optionally, a pair of probes or an array of probes can be used, optionally mounting the probes on a multi-axis movable support. Optionally, a computer-aided design representing the object can be used to parameterize the object. The method and apparatus can be used to create an image of the object for non-destructive testing. 1. A method of scanning an object , comprising:positioning two virtual, orthogonal axes on a surface of the object; andcontrolling a scanning path of a probe as a function of the two virtual, orthogonal axes.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising defining the two virtual claim 1 , orthogonal axes in a parametric space of the surface of the object.3. The method of claim 2 , comprising:defining a rectangular grid in the parametric space; andpositioning the two virtual, orthogonal axes on axes of the rectangular grid.4. The method of claim 3 , comprising defining the rectangular grid by isomorphic triangulation of the surface of the object.5. The method of claim 4 , comprising performing a smoothing of the rectangular grid defined by isomorphic triangulation of the surface of the object6. The method of claim 3 , comprising:moving the probe along the scanning path in a plurality of successive probe positions corresponding to a plurality of positions of the two virtual, orthogonal axes on the rectangular grid;wherein a distance between two nearest probe positions corresponds to a mesh size of the rectangular grid.7. The method of claim 3 , comprising:determining a contour of the object; anddefining the rectangular grid within the contour of the object.8. ...

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04-01-2018 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20180003819A1
Автор: Koptenko Sergei V.
Принадлежит:

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 ...

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15-01-2015 дата публикации

ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTIC DEVICE AND ULTRASOUND PROBE

Номер: US20150013462A1
Принадлежит: HITACHI ALOKA MEDICAL, LTD.

In order to reduce the variation of transmitting and receiving sensitivity among a plurality of CMUT cells, an ultrasound diagnostic device comprises: a plurality of CMUT cells each having a vibrating membrane that vibrates when ultrasound is transmitted to or received from a subject; an upper electrode and a lower electrode disposed facing each other on mutually opposite sides of each of the CMUT cells to apply a bias voltage to each of the CMUT cells by a bias power supply; and transmitting and receiving correction units for each correcting the voltage supplied from the bias power supply by using a function using at least one parameter of the thickness and resonance frequency of the vibrating membrane of each of the CMUT cells. 1. An ultrasonic diagnostic device comprising:an ultrasound probe which transmits an ultrasonic wave to an object and receives a reflected wave from the object;a transmission unit which transmits the ultrasonic wave;a reception unit which receives the reflected wave from the object;a control unit which controls the transmission unit and the reception unit; anda bias power source which supplies a bias voltage to the ultrasound probe,wherein the ultrasound probe includes a plurality of CMUT cells each having an upper electrode and a lower electrode which are disposed opposite to each other to apply the bias voltage, and a vibrating membrane which is disposed between the upper electrode and the lower electrode and vibrates during transmission and reception, anda transmission and reception sensitivity correction unit which corrects the bias voltage supplied from the bias power source on the basis of correction data for correcting the bias voltage applied to the upper electrode and the lower electrode and supplies the corrected bias voltage to the upper electrode and the lower electrode, andthe correction data is calculated using at least one parameter selected from the thickness of the vibrating membrane and the resonance frequency of the ...

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26-01-2017 дата публикации

Ultrasonic geometry testing, involving inaccuracy correction of transducer positioning

Номер: US20170023359A1

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 ).

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25-01-2018 дата публикации

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR JOINT INSPECTION

Номер: US20180024098A1
Автор: Phillips Paul
Принадлежит:

A method of inspecting a joint of a heat exchanger comprises: scanning the heat exchanger with an electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) sensor by scanning the EMAT sensor over an area of the heat exchanger in a scanning pattern; collecting data from the EMAT sensor analysing the data; and determining a status of the joint based on the analysed data. 1. A method of inspecting a joint of a heat exchanger , the method comprising:scanning the heat exchanger with an electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) sensor by scanning the EMAT sensor over an area of the heat exchanger in a scanning pattern;collecting data from the EMAT sensor;analysing the data; anddetermining a status of the joint based on the analysed data.2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the scanning pattern is two-dimensional.3. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the scanning pattern is determined based on a computer model of the heat exchanger.4. The method as claimed in claim 3 , wherein the scanning pattern covers an area of the heat exchanger including the joint and omits an area of the heat exchanger without the joint.5. The method as claimed claim 1 , wherein collecting data from the EMAT sensor comprises collecting data from a plurality of locations within the scanning pattern.6. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the collection of data from the EMAT sensor comprises recording the time of collection of the data.7. The method as claimed claim 1 , wherein analysing the data comprises using a wavelet transform.8. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein determining a status of the joint comprises determining a quality of the joint within the heat exchanger.9. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein analysing data comprises comparing the data to a database of known defects.10. The method as claimed in claim 9 , further comprising updating the database based on the analysed data and the determined status of the joint.11. The method as claimed in claim 1 , comprising ...

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10-02-2022 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20220042951A1

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 ...

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24-04-2014 дата публикации

Rotary ultrasonic testing apparatus with hydraulic lifting units

Номер: US20140109676A1
Автор: Hua Zhou, Kai Fan, Xun YU
Принадлежит: General Electric Co

The present application provides a rotary testing apparatus for use with a work piece. The rotary testing apparatus may include a rotor, a probe, and a lifting unit for maneuvering the probe about the work piece. The lifting unit may include a hydraulic lifting mechanism and a counterweight mechanism.

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29-01-2015 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20150027228A1
Автор: ENDO Kogo
Принадлежит:

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 ...

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01-05-2014 дата публикации

Single channel scanning acoustic microscope with multiple focused ultrasonic transducers

Номер: US20140116143A1
Принадлежит: Sonoscan, Inc.

A single channel scanning acoustic microscope that increases the throughput of the acoustic imaging system by connecting a multi-transducer assembly in parallel to a single channel electronic circuit. The single channel scanning acoustic microscope includes multiple transducers configured to generate a time delay for individual ultrasonic waves generated by each transducer, wherein a pulse generator simultaneously sends a pulse signal to the multi-transducer assembly. 1. A scanning acoustic microscope , comprising:a single channel electronic circuit configuration comprising a pulse generator, an amplifier, a digital format converter and a visual display;a plurality of transducers, wherein each transducer comprises an acoustic rod body, at least a piezoelectric and at least a lens, wherein each transducer generates an individual ultrasonic wave;wherein said plurality of transducers is configured to generate a proper time delay for said individual ultrasonic wave;wherein each transducer of said plurality of transducers is connected to said single channel electronic circuit configuration; andwherein said plurality of transducers is electrically coupled to the pulse generator for simultaneously receiving a pulse signal.2. The scanning acoustic microscope of claim 1 , comprising:a part under inspection;a fluid, wherein said fluid at least covers the distance between said plurality of transducers and said part under inspection;wherein the fluid located between each transducer and said part under inspection generates an individual fluid path for each transducer; andwherein said individual fluid path for each transducer generates an acoustic signal delay for each individual ultrasonic wave.3. The scanning acoustic microscope of claim 2 , wherein said acoustic signal delay comprises different lengths for each individual fluid path.4. The scanning acoustic microscope of claim 3 , wherein at least more than one transducer from the plurality of transducers are arranged to ...

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05-02-2015 дата публикации

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACOUSTICALLY IDENTIFYING DAMAGED SECTIONS OF A ROUTE

Номер: US20150033864A1
Принадлежит: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

A method for acoustically examining a route includes sensing passively excited residual sounds of a vehicle system during travel over a route, examining the passively excited residual sounds to identify one or more changes of interest in the passively excited residual sounds, and identifying a section of the route as being damaged responsive to the one or more changes of interest in the passively excited residual sounds that are identified. 1. A method comprising:sensing passively excited residual sounds of a vehicle system during travel over a route using one or more acoustic pickup devices;examining the passively excited residual sounds to identify one or more changes of interest in the passively excited residual sounds using one or more processors of a deviation detection device operably connected with the one or more acoustic pickup devices; andautomatically identifying a section of the route as being damaged responsive to the one or more changes of interest in the passively excited residual sounds that are identified using one or more processors of an identification device.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the passively excited residual sounds are sounds generated by operation of a propulsion system of the vehicle system to propel the vehicle system and sounds generated by movement of wheels of the vehicle system along the route.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the passively excited residual sounds are sensed with one or more acoustic pickup devices coupled to the vehicle system that are spaced apart from the route and acoustically coupled with the route by air.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising identifying one or more subsets of designated frequencies at which the passively excited residual sounds are to be examined in order to identify the one or more changes of interest using one or more vehicle control events.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the one or more vehicle control events include at least one of a speed claim 4 , an acceleration ...

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04-02-2016 дата публикации

Ultrasonic device and probe as well as electronic apparatus and ultrasonic imaging apparatus

Номер: US20160036412A1
Принадлежит: Seiko Epson Corp

An acoustic matching layer is formed on individual ultrasonic transducer elements on a base. Electric conductors are arranged between adjacent ultrasonic transducer elements, the electric conductors being connected to electrodes of the ultrasonic transducer elements. Protective films overlap the electric conductors. The protective films have smaller moisture permeability than the acoustic matching layer. Wall portions are arranged on the protective films, the wall portions separating portions of the acoustic matching layer that are respectively located on adjacent ultrasonic transducer elements from each other at least in a part of a height range with respect to a height direction from the base, and having an acoustic impedance that is different from the acoustic impedance of the acoustic matching layer.

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11-02-2016 дата публикации

Acoustic Micro Imaging Device with a Scan While Loading Feature

Номер: US20160041128A1
Принадлежит:

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 ...

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16-02-2017 дата публикации

Ultrasound imaging pickup apparatus

Номер: US20170042510A1
Принадлежит: HITACHI LTD

Reception beamforming is executed using delay times that complexly vary in accordance with differences between transmission conditions. An irradiation area 32 of a transmission beam is calculated, and the lengths of segments, using which delay times are calculated, are set in accordance with the positional relationships between the calculated irradiation area 32 and reception scanning lines 31 . For example, the reception scanning lines 31 are divided into areas A to C, and the lengths of segments 40 b in the outer area B located outside of the irradiation area 32 are set shorter than the lengths of segments 40 a and 40 c in the inner areas A and C.

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06-02-2020 дата публикации

METHOD FOR THE GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION AND DATA PRESENTATION OF WELD INSPECTION RESULTS

Номер: US20200041456A1
Принадлежит:

A system and method directed to displaying images and presenting the data from the phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) inspection of a plurality of welded joints within a welded object. The system includes an engine comprising memory, a graphical user interface (GUI), an export module, a transformation module, and a merger module each operably coupled to one another. The export module is used to extract images and data from the PAUT inspection of the welded joints. The exported information is used by the transformation module to create a multi-dimensional representation of the PAUT inspected welded joint for each joint. The merger module combines the information from the export module and the transformation module into an evaluation report for each PAUT inspected welded joint and assembles the evaluation report into a master report for analysis. The system may be communicatively coupled over a network using a network interface. 118-. (canceled)19. A system for graphically representing and presenting inspection results of a plurality of welded joints within a welded object , the system comprising:at least one processor; and obtain a plurality of ultrasound images and PAUT inspection data from a PAUT inspection of at least one of the plurality of welded joints within the welded object;', 'group the plurality of ultrasound images and the PAUT inspection data from the PAUT inspection by a predetermined characteristic; and', 'create a multi-dimensional representation of a PAUT inspected welded joint for at least one welded joint within the plurality of welded joints by selecting one of the plurality of grouped ultrasound images and superimposing it onto a multi-dimensional representative image of the welded joint., 'a memory coupled to the processor having instructions stored therein, which when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform functions, including functions to20. The system of claim 19 , wherein the processor functions to determine whether a ...

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18-02-2021 дата публикации

Fast pattern recognition using ultrasound

Номер: US20210048413A1

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.

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24-02-2022 дата публикации

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING THE DIRECTIONAL FREQUENCY RESPONSE OF AN ARRANGEMENT OF TRANSDUCER ELEMENTS

Номер: US20220060241A1
Принадлежит: The Secretary of State For Defence

A method for determining the directional frequency response of an arrangement of transducer elements. The method comprises providing a simulation of locations of the transducer elements, in the spatial domain; providing a beamforming direction and a frequency range; converting the simulation of locations from the spatial domain into corresponding frequency response values in a spatial frequency domain, such that, for each frequency of a plurality of frequencies in the frequency range, a spatial frequency contour is defined, each of the spatial frequency contours intersecting at the origin; determining the frequency response by applying a transformation to the frequency response values for the provided beamforming direction and frequency range, translating the spatial frequency domain into a modified frequency domain, wherein the contours avoid intersecting; and outputting the frequency response. There is further provided a data processing device adapted to perform the method, a computer program, and a computer-readable medium. 1. Computer-implemented method of determining the frequency response as a function of direction of an arrangement of transducer elements , comprising controlling a computer processor to perform the steps of:(i) providing a simulation of locations of an arrangement of transducer elements, in the spatial domain;(ii) providing a beamforming direction and a frequency range; for each frequency of a plurality of frequencies in the frequency range, a spatial frequency contour; defined by a locus of points in the spatial frequency domain corresponding to the location of the frequency response values associated with the frequency response, as a function of direction, of the arrangement of transducer elements with respect to that frequency and the beamforming direction, passes through an origin of the spatial frequency domain;', 'wherein each of the spatial frequency contours for each of the plurality of frequencies intersect at the origin;, '(iii) ...

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03-03-2022 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION DEVICE, ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION METHOD, AND ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION PROGRAM

Номер: US20220065821A1
Принадлежит:

Ultrasonic flaw detection uses a phased-array ultrasonic-flaw-detection probe. The flaw detection probe is placed such that the center of curvature of the flaw detection probe coincides with a reference center of curvature of a subject. The flaw detection probe is translated along a scan direction. The flaw detection probe emits an ultrasonic beam such that the position upon which the ultrasonic beam converges coincides with the center of curvature of the curve of the outline of the cross section of the subject at the scan position, receives the resulting reflected beam, and estimates the length of a flaw in the circumferential direction of the subject. In addition, the estimated length of the flaw is corrected using a correction coefficient corresponding to the distance between the center of curvature of the reference scan position and the center of curvature of the scan position in the thickness direction of the subject.

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26-02-2015 дата публикации

Ultrasonic Testing Sensor and Ultrasonic Testing Method

Номер: US20150053012A1
Принадлежит: Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems Ltd

An ultrasonic testing sensor and an ultrasonic testing method are provided which achieve a high sensitivity of three-dimensional ultrasonic testing and a high S/N ratio, do not require development of a sensor for each inspection object, and reduce the cost of developing a sensor. The ultrasonic testing method is performed with the use of the ultrasonic testing sensor while a total length d, extending in a direction parallel to an ultrasonic scanning direction, of ultrasonic elements to be simultaneously excited with a single exciter is controlled to be in a range ensuring that 2d·sin θ=n·λ, where λ is a wavelength of an ultrasonic wave, n is an integer of 1 or 2, and θ is an angle at which the ultrasonic wave is incident.

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26-02-2015 дата публикации

Sensor Module with Adaptive Backing Layer

Номер: US20150053013A1
Принадлежит:

A scanning apparatus comprising a receiver circuit and a transmitter circuit, both circuits being flexible such that they are capable of conforming to the surface contours of an object as a surface of the apparatus is pressed against it and an adaptive backing positioned behind the transmitter and receiver circuits in the scanning apparatus and configured to, as the scanning apparatus is pressed against the object, conform to the flexible circuits. 1. A scanning apparatus comprising:a receiver circuit and a transmitter circuit, both circuits being flexible such that they are capable of conforming to the surface contours of an object as a surface of the apparatus is pressed against it; andan adaptive backing positioned behind the transmitter and receiver circuits in the scanning apparatus and configured to, as the scanning apparatus is pressed against the object, conform to the flexible circuits.2. A scanning apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , comprising a dry coupling that is positioned in front of the transmitter and receiver circuit in the scanning apparatus.3. A scanning apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , the dry coupling being configured to act as a transmission medium for conducting scanning signals into the object.4. A scanning apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , the dry coupling forming the surface of the scanning module.5. A scanning apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , the dry coupling being flexible such that claim 2 , when the surface of the scanning module is pressed against an object to be scanned claim 2 , the dry coupling adapts to the surface contours of the object.6. A scanning apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , the flexible circuits being configured to adapt to the surface contours of the object by flexing in conformity with the dry coupling as it adapts to the surface contours of the object.7. A scanning apparatus as claimed in claim 2 , the flexible circuits being configured to flex inwardly in conformity with any inward deflection of the dry coupling ...

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03-03-2022 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC IMAGING DEVICE WITH PROGRAMMABLE ANATOMY AND FLOW IMAGING

Номер: US20220066026A1
Принадлежит:

An imaging device includes a transducer that includes an array of piezoelectric elements formed on a substrate. Each piezoelectric element includes at least one membrane suspended from the substrate, at least one bottom electrode disposed on the membrane, at least one piezoelectric layer disposed on the bottom electrode, and at least one top electrode disposed on the at least one piezoelectric layer. Adjacent piezoelectric elements are configured to be isolated acoustically from each other. The device is utilized to measure flow or flow along with imaging anatomy. 1. An imaging device comprising:a transducer;a two-dimensional (2D) array of piezoelectric elements arranged in rows and columns on the transducer, each piezoelectric element having at least two terminals, each piezoelectric element being physically isolated from each adjacent piezoelectric element to reduce cross talk,a first column of piezoelectric elements of the array, each piezoelectric element having a first top electrode connected to a respective receive amplifier, each of the piezoelectric elements to be electronically programmed as if connected together to form a first column, anda second column of piezoelectric elements of the array, each piezoelectric element having a second top electrode connected to a respective transmit driver, each of the piezoelectric elements to be electronically programmed as if connected together to form a second column,wherein the electronically programmed connections of the piezoelectric elements enables connection of an arbitrary number of piezoelectric elements in a column.2. The imaging device of claim 1 , wherein elements and sub-elements of columns are controlled as separate claim 1 , independent columns.3. The imaging device of claim 1 , wherein each piezoelectric element exhibits multiple modes of vibration enabling Anatomy and Doppler imaging over a large bandwidth with electronic steering and focus control of an elevation plane.4. The imaging device of claim 1 ...

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13-02-2020 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC INSPECTION CONFIGURATION WITH BEAM OVERLAP VERIFICATION

Номер: US20200049670A1
Автор: Lepage Benoit

Disclosed is a beam overlap verification system and method for phased array ultrasonic inspection. A scan plan for the ultrasonic inspection defines a suitable probe, wedge and calibration block having machined defects for the geometry to be inspected, and makes a beam definition which defines a set of ultrasonic beams emitted by the phased array. An intersection amplitude unit records the response amplitudes from each defect at predetermined intersection points of adjacent beam pairs as the probe and wedge are manually scanned across the calibration block. An overlap verification module determines the −6 dB overlap of all adjacent beam pairs which are relevant to the geometry to be inspected, and verifies that the beam overlap conforms to the required coverage according to the ASME or other relevant codes. In this way, coverage is experimentally verified during calibration prior to inspection of a known geometry, such as a weld. 1. A non-destructive testing (NDT) system comprising:an acquisition unit configured to detect a plurality of response amplitudes of echo signals corresponding to reflections of a plurality of ultrasonic beams from an indication;an intersection amplitude unit configured to determine a maximum amplitude of an ultrasonic beam among the plurality of ultrasonic beams and to determine an intersection amplitude of an adjacent beam among the plurality of ultrasonic beams adjacent to the ultrasonic beam; andan overlap verification module configured to calculate an amplitude drop of the intersection amplitude relative to the maximum amplitude and to determine a beam overlap percentage between the ultrasonic beam and the adjacent beam according to the amplitude drops.2. The system of wherein the overlap verification module is configured to calculate the amplitude drop as a ratio of the intersection amplitude and the maximum amplitude.3. The system of wherein the intersection amplitude unit is further configured to determine the intersection amplitude ...

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15-05-2014 дата публикации

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR THE OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS

Номер: US20140130600A1
Автор: Watanabe Tadaki
Принадлежит: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA

An object information acquiring apparatus comprises a receiver receiving an acoustic wave propagating inside an object and convert the acoustic wave into an electric signal; a scanning unit configured to causing the receiver to scan the object; a control unit configured to controlling operation of the scanning unit; a detection unit configured to detecting a status of the acoustic wave reception; and a processing unit for acquiring characteristic information on the inside of the object on the basis of the electric signal, wherein the control unit decides whether or not the operation of the scanning unit is changed, on the basis of a result of detection by the detection unit. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus comprising:a receiver receiving an acoustic wave propagating inside an object and convert the acoustic wave into an electric signal;a scanning unit configured to causing the receiver to scan the object;a control unit configured to controlling operation of the scanning unit;a detection unit configured to detecting a status of the acoustic wave reception; anda processing unit for acquiring characteristic information on the inside of the object on the basis of the electric signal, whereinthe control unit decides whether or not the operation of the scanning unit is changed, on the basis of a result of detection by the detection unit.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe detection unit detects an error that occurs when the receiver receives the acoustic wave and that influences the reception of the acoustic wave, andthe control unit decides whether or not the scanning unit causes the receiver to move in accordance with a content of the error detected by the detection unit.3. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 2 , whereinin a case where the decision is made that the receiver is caused to move, the control unit decides on a position to which the receiver is caused to move from a position ...

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26-02-2015 дата публикации

Method and device for detecting defects within a test object

Номер: US20150057953A1
Принадлежит: SIEMENS AG

A device and a method for detecting at least one defect in a test object ( 2 ). At least one test head ( 1 ) radiates an ultrasonic signal at different measuring points (MP) into the test object ( 2 ) with each point at an insonation or radiation angle (α) in order to ascertain multiple measurement data sets (MDS). The angle is constant for each data set (MDS). An analyzing unit ( 4 ) carries out an SAFT (Synthetic Aperture Focusing Technique) analysis for each ascertained measurement data set (MDS) using a common reconstruction grid (RG) inside the test object ( 2 ) in order to calculate an SAFT analysis result for each measurement data set (MDS). The analyzing unit ( 4 ) superimposes the calculated SAFT analysis results in order to calculate an orientation-independent defect display value (S RP ) for each reconstruction point (RP) of the common reconstruction grid (RG).

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01-03-2018 дата публикации

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND DEVICES FOR SOLID AXLE TESTING

Номер: US20180059061A1
Принадлежит:

Methods, systems, and devices for solid axle testing are provided. 1. An inspection system , comprising:a probe configured to be inserted into a blind hole formed in a solid axle, the probe including an ultrasonic transducer at an end face thereof that is configured to generate ultrasonic waves in the solid axle covering substantially an entire portion of the solid axle to be inspected when the probe is within the blind hole.2. The inspection system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic transducer includes an angle beam ultrasonic transducer configured to propagate a shear wave and a longitudinal beam ultrasonic transducer configured to propagate a compression wave claim 1 , and the ultrasonic waves include the shear wave propagated by the angle beam ultrasonic transducer and the compression wave propagated by the longitudinal beam ultrasonic transducer.3. The inspection system of claim 1 , wherein the probe is configured to be inserted into the blind hole until the end face of the probe abuts a bottom surface of the blind hole.4. The inspection system of claim 1 , wherein the probe includes a controller configured to analyze the echo to determine whether a flaw is present in the solid axle.5. The inspection system of claim 4 , wherein the flaw includes at least one of a crack claim 4 , a notch claim 4 , an inclusion claim 4 , a void claim 4 , and a fracture.6. The inspection system of claim 1 , wherein the substantially entire portion of the solid axle to be inspected is at least one of substantially an entire skin surface of the solid axle and substantially an entire volume of the solid axle.7. The inspection system of claim 1 , further comprising a liquid couplant on the end face of the probe.8. The inspection system of claim 7 , wherein the liquid couplant includes one of water claim 7 , grease claim 7 , oil claim 7 , and a gel.9. The inspection system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic transducer includes a plurality of phased array transducers configured to ...

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22-05-2014 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC INSPECTION OF AN AXLE

Номер: US20140137649A1
Принадлежит: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

A method and system for ultrasonic inspection of an axle is disclosed. An ultrasonic probe and wedge are placed on the radial surface of an outboard journal of the axle and an ultrasonic scan is directed toward the inboard journal, wherein the devices mounted on the inboard journal remain mounted during the ultrasonic scan. 1. A method for ultrasonic inspection of an axle , wherein the axle comprises a longitudinal axis and an inboard journal between a first outboard journal and a second outboard journal , and wherein a plurality of devices are mounted on the inboard journal , the method comprising the steps of:placing a first ultrasonic probe and a first ultrasonic wedge at a first location on a radial surface of the first outboard journal, wherein the radial surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the axle; andperforming a first ultrasonic scan directed to the inboard journal,wherein the plurality of devices mounted on the inboard journal remain mounted during the first ultrasonic scan.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the steps of:placing the first ultrasonic probe and the first ultrasonic wedge at a second location on the radial surface of the first outboard journal; andperforming a second ultrasonic scan directed to the inboard journal,wherein the plurality of devices mounted on the inboard journal remain mounted during the second ultrasonic scan.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising the steps of:placing a second ultrasonic probe and a second ultrasonic wedge at a second location on the radial surface of the first outboard journal; andperforming a second ultrasonic scan directed to the inboard journal,wherein the plurality of devices mounted on the inboard journal remain mounted during the second ultrasonic scan.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the first location is proximate to a first end of the first inboard journal and the second location is proximate to a second end of the first outboard journal claim 2 , axially ...

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04-03-2021 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20210063354A1
Принадлежит: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA

According to one embodiment, a display control system acquires a tilt of a detector with respect to a weld portion. The detector includes a plurality of detection elements arranged along a first arrangement direction and a second arrangement direction. The first arrangement direction and the second arrangement direction cross each other. The tilt is calculated based on a detection result of a reflected wave obtained by transmitting an ultrasonic wave from the plurality of detection elements. The system displays a user interface, displays a symbol and a tolerance range in a region included in the user interface, and updates the display of the symbol in the region according to the acquiring of the tilt. The region spreads two-dimensionally. The symbol indicates the tilt. The tolerance range is of a target value of the tilt. 1. A display control system ,the system acquiring a tilt of a detector with respect to a weld portion, the detector including a plurality of detection elements arranged along a first arrangement direction and a second arrangement direction, the first arrangement direction and the second arrangement direction crossing each other, the tilt being calculated based on a detection result of a reflected wave obtained by transmitting an ultrasonic wave from the plurality of detection elements,the system displaying a user interface, displaying a symbol and a tolerance range in a region included in the user interface, and updating the display of the symbol in the region according to the acquiring of the tilt,the region spreading two-dimensionally, the symbol indicating the tilt, the tolerance range being of a target value of the tilt.2. The system according to claim 1 , whereinthe system is configured to accept an operation of adjusting a size of the tolerance range, andthe system changes the size of the tolerance range displayed in the region according to the operation.3. The system according to claim 2 , whereina switcher configured to switch to an ...

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04-03-2021 дата публикации

Ultrasonic inspection probe, system, and method

Номер: US20210063355A1
Принадлежит: Boeing Co

Disclosed herein is an ultrasonic inspection probe for inspecting parts. The ultrasonic inspection probe comprises a probe body that comprises an ultrasonic array and a plate attachment surface. The ultrasonic array comprises a plurality of ultrasound elements, each selectively operable to generate an ultrasonic beam and each fixed relative to the plate attachment surface. The ultrasonic inspection probe also comprises an interface plate, comprising a body attachment surface, removably attachable to the plate attachment surface of the probe body, and a part inspection surface, shaped to complement a shape of one of the parts.

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12-03-2015 дата публикации

ROLLING PHASED ARRAY ULTRASONIC SCANNER

Номер: US20150068312A1
Принадлежит:

A rolling ultrasonic scanner comprises a member having an inspection surface for rolling across the surface of an object under test. A plurality of ultrasonic transducers are disposed within the member in a formation such that they are each aimed at a common point that is coincident with the surface of the object. 1. An ultrasonic scanner comprising:a member having an inspection surface for rolling across a surface of an object to be inspected;an axle attached to the member wherein the member moves relative to the axle during said rolling across the surface of the object to be inspected;a plurality of ultrasonic transducers disposed within the member, wherein the plurality of ultrasonic transducers are fixed in a formation such that they are each aimed at a common point on the surface of the object to be inspected.2. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 1 , wherein the member is filled with an acoustically transmissive fluid.3. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 2 , wherein the member is filled with the acoustically transmissive fluid under pressure such that the member bows outward.4. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 2 , wherein the member comprises a cylindrical shape.5. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 1 , further comprising a transducer housing for fixing the plurality of ultrasonic transducers in a curved formation claim 1 , the transducer housing being attached to the axle.6. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 1 , wherein the member comprises a flexible material that conforms to a surface of the object to be inspected.7. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 1 , further comprising a frame connected to the axle claim 1 , wherein the frame comprises a handle for a user to grasp while rolling the scanner across the object to be inspected.8. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transducers are aligned along an axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the member.9. The ultrasonic scanner of claim 1 , further comprising end caps attached to the axle claim 1 ...

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17-03-2022 дата публикации

Method for ultrasound imaging using two-dimensional fourier transform, corresponding computer program and ultrasound probe device

Номер: US20220082526A1

This two-dimensional Fourier transform ultrasound imaging method includes by controlling transmitting and receiving transducers: obtaining M matrices MRm, 1≤m≤M, of sampled ultrasonic time signals; two-dimensional Fourier transforming each matrix MRm to obtain M spectral matrices FTMRm; converting each spectral matrix FTMRm to obtain M spectral images FTIm; combining the M spectral images FTIm and two-dimensional inverse Fourier transforming the resulting spectral image FTI to obtain an ultrasound image I. The conversion includes taking into account a change of propagation mode during a backscatter, by adding a parameter characterizing this change of mode in equations (SYS) of change of reference frame, and/or taking into account a reflection against a wall, by adding a phase shift term in a relation (REL) of matrix transformation.

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28-02-2019 дата публикации

LINEAR-SCAN ULTRASONIC INSPECTION APPARATUS AND LINEAR-SCAN ULTRASONIC INSPECTION METHOD

Номер: US20190064120A1
Принадлежит:

According to an embodiment, a linear-scan ultrasonic inspection apparatus comprises: an ultrasonic array probe having ultrasonic elements aligned in a first direction; a delay-time calculator configured to calculate, referring to the surface shape of the test object, values of delay time of at least one of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic wave; an overlapping-region adjustor configured to set conditions for generating an image of an overlapping region; and an integrated-image generator configured to generate first image data of a region including the overlapping region. The overlapping-region adjustor is configured to set the conditions of the surface shape to be referred to the delay-time calculator in calculating the values of the delay time at either the first-probe setting position or the second-probe setting position as both of a first acquired shape obtained at the first-probe setting position and a second acquired shape obtained at the second-probe setting position. 1. A linear-scan ultrasonic inspection apparatus comprising:an ultrasonic array probe having a plurality of ultrasonic elements aligned in a first direction, each of the ultrasonic elements being configured to transmit and receive ultrasonic wave in a test object;a delay-time calculator configured to calculate, referring to the surface shape of the test object, values of delay time of at least one of transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic wave with each of the ultrasonic elements;an overlapping-region adjustor configured to set conditions for generating an image of an overlapping region between a first-probe setting position and a second-probe setting position of the ultrasonic array probe, the second-probe setting position being shifted in the first direction from the first-probe setting position; andan integrated-image generator configured to generate first image data of a region including the overlapping region, the first image data expanding in the first direction and the depth ...

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08-03-2018 дата публикации

METHOD FOR INSPECTING A WELD SEAM

Номер: US20180067085A1
Принадлежит:

A method for non-destructive inspection of a weld seam. An array of ultrasonic transducers is positioned such that the array of transducers extends over at least part of the width of the weld seam. Each transducer element in the array of transducer elements is excited so that each transducer emits an ultrasonic signal. A plurality of reflected ultrasonic signals are received at the array of transducer elements and the reflected ultrasonic signals are converted to electrical signals. The electrical signals are analyzed to identify a defect, or a plurality of defects. 1. A method of non-destructive inspection of a weld seam , comprising:exciting each transducer element of an array of transducer elements to emit an ultrasonic signal in which the array of transducer elements is positioned to extend over at least part of a width of the weld seam;receiving a plurality of reflected ultrasonic signals at the array of transducer elements;converting the reflected ultrasonic signals to electrical signals;applying at least one set of delay laws to the electrical signals to generate a plurality of virtual probes steered to a plurality of angles, foci, or a combination of angles and foci; andidentifying, by at least one of the virtual probes, a defect in the weld seam.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising applying a time inversion algorithm to the electrical signals to compensate for changes in geometry of the weld seam.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the array of transducers are positioned on the weld seam in an on-bead configuration.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the defect comprises a longitudinal defect claim 1 , a transversal defect claim 1 , or a lamination defect.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the array of transducers is at least partially submerged in a fluid to facilitate transmission of the ultrasonic signals.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic signals are emitted without a time delay and the reflected signals are received without a time ...

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09-03-2017 дата публикации

METHOD FOR TESTING A WORKPIECE USING ULTRASOUND

Номер: US20170067855A1
Принадлежит:

The application relates to a method for testing a workpiece using ultrasound in a curved region of the surface of said workpiece, having the following steps: a plurality of ultrasonic signals are emitted from a plurality of transmitting positions into the workpiece a corresponding ultrasonic echo signal is received for each ultrasonic signal the ultrasonic echoes having amplitudes representing local maxima are determined for each transmitting position if an individual ultrasonic echo having an amplitude representing a local maximum was determined for a transmitting position in the associated ultrasonic echo signal of said echo is selected if a plurality of ultrasonic echoes having an amplitude representing a local maximum were determined for a transmitting position ultrasonic echo signals are selected if only an individual ultrasonic echo having an amplitude representing a local maximum was determined for an adjacent transmitting position at least the selected ultrasonic echo signals are evaluated. 1. A method for testing a workpiece using ultrasound in a curved area of the surface of said workpiece , having the following steps:(a) a plurality of ultrasonic signals are emitted from a plurality of transmitting positions under different pivot angles lying in a pivoting range by means of at least one ultrasonic transducer and are injected into the workpiece,(b) a corresponding ultrasonic echo signal is received for each ultrasonic signal and the amplitude of the ultrasonic echo generated upon entering the workpiece or on the rear wall of the workpiece is determined,(c) for each transmitting position the ultrasonic echoes having amplitudes representing local maxima are determined,(d1) if a single ultrasonic echo having an amplitude representing a local maximum has been determined for a transmitting position in step (c), the associated ultrasonic echo signal of said echo is selected,(d2) if in step (c) a plurality of ultrasonic echoes having an amplitude representing a ...

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09-03-2017 дата публикации

Method and device for the testing of ultrasound probes

Номер: US20170067858A1
Автор: Björn SEGALL
Принадлежит: BBS FORSALJNINGS AB

There is provided a device for testing ultrasound probes comprising a plurality of transducing elements, said device comprising a plurality of ultrasound transmitter/receiver circuits, a computing device and a control device arranged to control the transmitter/receiver circuits and the computing device arranged to select an interrogation protocol from a plurality of different interrogation protocols, where each interrogation protocol comprises instructions for the order in which the plurality of transmitter/receiver circuits shall send voltage pulses to the transducers of the ultrasound probe.

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07-03-2019 дата публикации

Ultrasonic Probe, Ultrasonic Flaw Detection Apparatus and Method

Номер: US20190072526A1
Принадлежит:

There is provided, for example, an ultrasonic probe capable of improving the accuracy of testing of a curved-surface structure. An array sensor (ultrasonic array sensor) includes multiple elements (oscillators) to generate an ultrasonic wave. Water (propagation member) is disposed between the array sensor and steel (test target) to propagate the ultrasonic wave. At least one reflection section reflects the ultrasonic wave reflected and returned from the surface of or the inside of the steel, and causes the ultrasonic wave to fall on any of the elements. 1. An ultrasonic probe comprising:an ultrasonic array sensor that is formed of a plurality of oscillators to generate an ultrasonic wave;a propagation member that is disposed between the ultrasonic array sensor and a test target to propagate the ultrasonic wave; andat least one ultrasonic reflection member that reflects the ultrasonic wave reflected and returned from the surface of or the inside of the test target, and causes the ultrasonic wave to fall on any of the oscillators.2. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic reflection member has a flat surface perpendicular to a plane on which the oscillators are arrayed claim 1 , and reflects the ultrasonic wave from the flat surface.3. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2 , wherein two ultrasonic reflection members are included and disposed at opposing ends of the array of the oscillators.4. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1 , wherein the propagation member is formed of a solid body claim 1 , and wherein the ultrasonic reflection member differs in acoustic impedance from the propagation member.5. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 4 , wherein the propagation member is formed of resin claim 4 , and wherein the ultrasonic reflection member is formed of metal.6. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 4 , wherein the propagation member is formed of resin claim 4 , and wherein the ultrasonic reflection member is formed of a ...

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07-03-2019 дата публикации

COMPACT IMMERSION SCANNING SYSTEM FOR HIGH-FREQUENCY SOUND WAVES

Номер: US20190072527A1
Принадлежит:

An apparatus, system, program product, and method are disclosed for a compact immersion scanning system. An apparatus includes an XY scanning mechanism, a first transducer configured to transmit a sound wave, a second transducer configured to receive the sound wave, and a tray configured to hold a material. The tray is coupled to the XY scanning mechanism and located beneath the first transducer and the second transducer is located on a bottom side of the tray below the material. The tray is moved in an XY pattern along an X axis and a Y axis in response to an XY scanning mechanism controller mechanically moving the XY scanning mechanism while the first transducer is positioned in a stationary location along a vertical axis perpendicular to the tray. The first transducer transmits sound waves into the material and the second transmitter receives the transmitted sound waves at each XY position. 1. An apparatus , comprising:an XY scanning mechanism configured to mechanically move in an XY pattern by an XY scanning mechanism controller;a first transducer configured to transmit a sound wave;a second transducer configured to receive the sound wave; anda tray configured to hold a material, the tray coupled to the XY scanning mechanism and located beneath the first transducer, the second transducer located on a bottom side of the tray below the material,wherein the tray is moved in an XY pattern along an X axis and a Y axis in response to the XY scanning mechanism controller mechanically moving the XY scanning mechanism while the first transducer is positioned in a stationary location along a vertical axis perpendicular to the tray, the first transducer transmitting sound waves into the material in the tray at each XY position as the tray moves, the second transmitter receiving the transmitted sound waves at each XY position for determining characteristics of the material based on the received sound waves.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the second transducer ...

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05-03-2020 дата публикации

WEAR SOLE FOR ULTRASONIC INSPECTION AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

Номер: US20200072796A1
Принадлежит:

A method for forming a wear sole includes forming a plurality of layers from a frame material, adjacent layers bonded to one another to define a frame. The frame can include a proximal surface configured to secure the frame to a probe holder, a distal surface configured to contact a portion of a target, a body extending between proximal and distal surfaces, an aperture extending through proximal and distal surfaces and the body, and a channel extending from the proximal surface to a chamber in fluid communication with the distal surface. The method can optionally include placing a membrane within the aperture. The membrane can be coupled to the body by a seal, inhibiting passage of a fluid through the proximal surface via the aperture. The chamber can extend within the body between a distal surface of the membrane and the distal surface of the frame. 1. A method , comprising: a proximal surface configured to secure the frame to a distal end of a probe holder,', 'a distal surface configured to contact a portion of a target surface;', 'a frame body extending between the proximal and distal surfaces;', 'an aperture extending through the proximal surface, the body, and the distal surface; and', 'a channel extending from the proximal surface to a chamber in fluid communication with the distal surface., 'forming a plurality of layers from at least one frame material, wherein adjacent ones of the plurality of layers are bonded to one another to define a frame of a wear sole including2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising placing a membrane within the aperture claim 1 , adjacent to the proximal surface claim 1 , wherein the membrane is coupled to the frame body by a substantially fluid-tight seal so as to inhibit passage of a fluid through the proximal surface via the aperture.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the chamber extends within the frame body between a distal surface of the membrane and the distal surface of the frame.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ...

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26-03-2015 дата публикации

BIOMETRIC SENSORS FOR PERSONAL DEVICES

Номер: US20150082890A1
Принадлежит:

Methods and systems may provide for a system having a flexible substrate, an ultrasonic transducer array coupled to the flexible substrate and a processor coupled to the ultrasonic transducer array. The processor may identify a fingerprint based on a signal from the ultrasonic transducer array. The system may also include an external component having a curved profile, wherein the ultrasonic transducer array is embedded in the external component and includes a read surface that conforms to the curved profile. In one example, the external component includes a button having a function that is separate from identification of the fingerprint. 1. A system comprising:a flexible substrate;an ultrasonic transducer array coupled to the flexible substrate;a processor coupled to the ultrasonic transducer array, the processor to identify a fingerprint based on a signal from the ultrasonic transducer array; andan external component including a curved profile, wherein the ultrasonic transducer array is embedded in the external component and includes a read surface that conforms to the curved profile.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the external component includes one of a grip of a security device or a skin of a computing platform.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the external component includes a button having a function that is separate from identification of the fingerprint.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the button includes a target indicator adjacent to the read surface.5. The system of claim 1 , further including a position sensor coupled to the processor claim 1 , the processor to use the fingerprint and a signal from the position sensor to conduct an authentication of a user.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the processor is to deactivate one or more features of a system containing the apparatus if the authentication is unsuccessful.7. The system of claim 5 , wherein the signal from the position sensor is to trigger the authentication.8. The system of claim 5 , ...

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31-03-2022 дата публикации

Ultrasonic probe having flexible stabilizing element for probe alignment

Номер: US20220099631A1
Принадлежит: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC

A stabilized ultrasonic probe includes a housing, at least one ultrasonic transducer, a flexible delay line, and a stabilizing element. The housing can be tubular and extend from a proximal to a distal end and define a cavity therein. The transducer can be positioned within the housing. The delay line can include recessed and tip portions. The recessed portion can be within the cavity and extend from the transducer(s) to the housing distal end. The tip portion can extend from the housing distal end to a distal terminal end of the delay line. The stabilizing element can be coupled to the housing distal end and extend distally from the housing distal end to a target facing surface. The stabilizing element can circumferentially surround at least part of the delay line tip portion. A stabilizing element modulus can be greater than or equal to a delay line modulus.

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12-03-2020 дата публикации

METHOD FOR ACQUIRING SIGNALS BY ULTRASOUND PROBING, CORRESPONDING COMPUTER PROGRAM AND ULTRASOUND PROBING DEVICE

Номер: US20200080969A1
Принадлежит:

A method for acquiring signals via ultrasound probing including: controlling L emission transducers and N reception transducers in order to simultaneously receive, for each of M successive emissions, N measurement signals; obtaining a matrix of ultrasound time signals having a size of N×M. An initial matrix ([MC′]), having a size of L×M', for encoding the successive emissions is previously defined for a number M′ of successive initial emissions strictly greater than M. A calculation of acoustic field is carried out for each of the M′ initial emissions. A reduced encoding matrix ([MC]), having a size of L×M, is obtained by removal of M′−M columns of the initial encoding matrix ([MC′]) on the basis of a selection criterion applied to the M′ calculations of acoustic fields. Finally, the control of the L emission transducers for the M successive emissions is encoded using the reduced encoding matrix ([MC]). 1. A method for acquiring signals via ultrasound probing , comprising the following steps:controlling L emission transducers for M successive emissions of ultrasound waves towards a zone of interest,controlling N reception transducers in such a way as to receive simultaneously and over a predetermined time, for each of the M successive emissions, N measurement signals, measuring in particular echoes caused by reflections of the emission in question in the zone of interest,{'sub': 'i,j', 'claim-text': [{'sub': 'i,j', 'an initial matrix [MC′], having a size of L×M′, for encoding the successive emissions is previously defined for a number M′ of successive initial emissions strictly greater than M, each coefficient MC′of this matrix representing a multiplication factor applied to a common excitation time signal e(t) for its emission by the i-th emission transducer at the time of the j-th emission,'}, 'a calculation of acoustic field is carried out for each of the M′ successive initial emissions,', 'a reduced encoding matrix [MC], having a size of L×M, is obtained from ...

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25-03-2021 дата публикации

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ACQUIRING ULTRASONIC TESTING DATA LEVERAGING A SLIDING RECEIVER APERTURE DEFINED ACCORDING TO THE PRINCIPLE OF ACOUSTIC RECIPROCITY

Номер: US20210088480A1
Автор: Lepage Benoit

Example embodiments of the present invention relate to methods, systems, and a computer program product for acquiring phased array ultrasonic testing data leveraging a sliding receiver aperture defined according to a principle of acoustic reciprocity. The method includes triggering each of a set of ultrasonic probe elements to pulse as a pulser element. For each pulser element, a respective subset of the ultrasonic probe elements may be defined as the sliding receiver aperture according to a principle of acoustic reciprocity to act as receiver elements to receive response signals. Data corresponding to the respective response signals for each pair of pulser element and receiver element then may be stored. 1. A method for acquiring ultrasonic testing data leveraging a sliding receiver aperture defined according to a principle of acoustic reciprocity comprising:triggering each of a set of ultrasonic probe elements to pulse as a pulser elementfor each pulser element, receiving response signals from a respective sliding receiver aperture defined according to the principle of acoustic reciprocity as a respective set of receiver elements comprised of a subset of the ultrasonic probe elements; andstoring data corresponding to the respective response signals for each pair of pulser element and receiver element.2. The method of wherein receiving response signals from a respective sliding receiver aperture defined according to the principle of acoustic reciprocity as a respective set of receiver elements comprised of a subset of the ultrasonic probe elements comprises:determining for which ultrasonic probe elements response signals may be deduced by the principle of acoustic reciprocity according to response signals received from triggering the other ultrasonic probe elements as pulser elements;defining as the set of receiver elements in the sliding receiver aperture the ultrasonic probe elements for which response signals may not be deduced by the principle of acoustic ...

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25-03-2021 дата публикации

PORTABLE PHASED ARRAY TEST INSTRUMENT

Номер: US20210088481A1
Принадлежит:

Inventive features of a portable ultrasonic phased array test instrument are disclosed. The instrument has a battery rack that can be repurposed to host a re-programming module for testing and re-programming electronic components. 2. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the left arm and the right arm are made of a flexible polyurethane material.3. The instrument of claim 1 , wherein the upper handle part and the lower handle part are made of a rigid plastic material.4. The instrument of wherein the left arm claim 1 , the right arm claim 1 , the upper handle part and the lower handle part are molded plastic parts.6. The instrument of wherein the dongle connector is a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector.7. The instrument of wherein the dongle is interchangeably a Wi-Fi® or a Bluetooth® dongle.8. The instrument of wherein the sliding support comprises a post configured to be inserted into a slot in the casing assembly claim 5 , wherein motion of the sliding support between the inner position and the outer position is guided by the post sliding within the slot.9. The instrument of wherein the slot has an inner position hole at a first slot end and an outer position hole at a second slot end claim 8 , and wherein the sliding support is in the inner position when the post is in the inner position hole and the sliding support is in the outer position when the post is in the outer position hole.10. The instrument of further comprising a spring exerting a spring force on the sliding support claim 5 , wherein the spring force is effective to facilitate motion of the sliding support between the inner and outer position claim 5 , and to retain the sliding support in either the inner position or the outer position. This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/523,339 filed Jun. 22, 2017 entitled AN IMPROVED PORTABLE PHASED ARRAY TEST INSTRUMENT, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.The invention ...

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05-05-2022 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTION DEVICE

Номер: US20220137002A1
Автор: HAMANO Toshiaki
Принадлежит: IHI CORPORATION

An ultrasonic flaw detection device includes: an ultrasonic probe that detects waveform data of ultrasonic echoes emitted to an inspection area of an inspection target; a processing unit that stores pieces of sampling data obtained by sampling the waveform data obtained by the ultrasonic probe at predetermined sampling intervals in a storage unit continuously in time series; and a display control unit that divides the inspection area into a plurality of divided areas and displays each of the plurality of divided areas on a display, wherein the processing unit directly or indirectly links a divided area of the plurality of divided areas to one or more waveform data containing sampling data of one or more sampling point included in the divided area.

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09-04-2015 дата публикации

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

Номер: US20150096380A1
Принадлежит: IHI Southwest Technologies,Inc.

A computer with a proper program generates a phased array sequence of signals. In a pulser with delays, the signals are fed through a multiplexor into multiple water wedges that are 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 the 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 comparing the signals received with a known standard for that type valve, proper operation, or lack thereof, of the valve under test can be determined. 1. A method of testing a valve while in use , said valve having a top and a valve body , said testing to determine if said valve is operating properly by comparing against standard waveforms for said valve , said method comprising the following steps:(a) first attaching a top probe of first piezoelectric devices to said top;(b) second attaching a lower probe of second piezoelectric devices to said valve body; said top probe being generally opposite said lower probe on said valve body;(c) sending a first start signal from a phased array acquisition control to a sending multiplexer to create first parallel signals;(d) feeding said first parallel signals to a sending pulser with delays to create first phased pulse signals;(e) connecting said first phased pulse signals to either (1) said top probe, or (2) said lower probe to generate first phased array sequential scanning signals in said valve;(f) receiving first reflected signals back where said first phased array sequential scanning signals were generated to give first reflected phase pulse signals;(g) converting said first reflected phase pulse signals in a receiving multiplexer into first reflected energy pulses;(h) changing said first reflected energy pulses in a receiver with delays ...

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09-04-2015 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC SCANNING FIXTURE ASSEMBLY

Номер: US20150096382A1
Автор: JR. James A., Voor
Принадлежит: SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATION

An apparatus for use in scanning a material includes a top member having a first body with a first plurality of holes; a bottom member having a second body with a second plurality of holes; and an interconnecting member connecting the top member and the second member to provide a gap between the top member and the bottom member. Each hole in the top member is aligned with a corresponding hole in the bottom member to form a hole-pair. 1. An apparatus for use in scanning a material , comprising:a top member having a first body with a first plurality of holes;a bottom member having a second body with a second plurality of holes; andan interconnecting member connecting the top member and the second member to provide a gap between the top member and the bottom member;wherein each hole in the top member is aligned with a corresponding hole in the bottom member.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the first plurality of holes is configured to receive a corresponding shaped sensor.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the second plurality of holes is configured to receive a corresponding shaped sensor.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the interconnecting member is coupled to each of the top member and the bottom member along a longitudinal edge of the fixture assembly.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the interconnecting member is coupled to each of the top member and the bottom member with a plurality of screws.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of wheels coupled to each of the top member and the bottom member.7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of wheels are configured for rotational engagement with an edge of the material.8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the top member is made from a polyethylene or a metal.9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bottom member is made from a polyethylene or a metal.10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the interconnecting member is made from a polyethylene or a ...

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29-03-2018 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS, PROBE HEAD, ULTRASONIC PROBE, ELECTRONIC MACHINE, AND ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS

Номер: US20180091235A1
Автор: Matsuda Hiroshi
Принадлежит:

An ultrasonic measurement apparatus has an ultrasonic transducer device including an ultrasonic element array, a first through n-th first end-side terminal XA to XAn provided to a first end side, and a first through n-th second end-side terminal XB to XBn provided to a second end side opposing the first end side; a first transmission circuit outputting first drive signals VTA to VTAn to the first through n-th first end-side terminals XA to XAn; and a second transmission circuit outputting second drive signals VTB to VTBn to the first through n-th second end-side terminals XB to XBn. 1. An ultrasonic measurement apparatus comprising:an ultrasonic transducer device including an ultrasonic element array, a first first end-side terminal through an n-th (where n is an integer two or greater) first end-side terminal provided to a first end side of the ultrasonic element array, and a first second end-side terminal through an n-th second end-side terminal provided to a second end side of the ultrasonic element array opposing the first end side of the ultrasonic element array;a first drive electrode line through an n-th drive electrode line, each drive electrode line having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the first end-side terminal and the second end being connected to the second end-side terminal;a first transmission circuit configured to output first drive signals to the first first end-side terminal through the n-th first end-side terminal; anda second transmission circuit configured to output second drive signals to the first second end-side terminal through the n-th second end-side terminal,an amplitude of at least one of the first drive signals and the second drive signals being variably set.2. The ultrasonic measurement apparatus as set forth in claim 1 , whereina set position of a scan plane, which is a plane running along a direction of scanning of a beam of ultrasonic waves emitted from the ultrasonic transducer device, is changed by ...

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19-03-2020 дата публикации

ULTRASOUND MATRIX INSPECTION

Номер: US20200088691A1
Принадлежит:

A device and method for performing ultrasound scanning of a substantially cylindrical object, the device comprising a cuff adapted to fit around a circumference of the object, a carrier mounted slidably on the cuff and adapted to traverse the circumference of the object, an ultrasound probe mounted on the carrier and positioned to scan the circumference of the object as the carrier traverses the circumference of the object, a carrier motor mounted on the cuff or the carrier and used to drive the movement of the carrier about the circumference of the object, and one or more data connections providing control information for the carrier motor and the ultrasound probe and receiving scanning data from the ultrasound probe. 132-. (canceled)33. A method for performing ultrasound scanning of a solid object , comprising:providing an ultrasound array having a plurality of ultrasound elements arrayed substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the object;positioning the ultrasound array to project ultrasound signals toward an external surface of the object at a first point about the surface of the object; transmitting an ultrasound signal from a first ultrasound element in the ultrasound array;', 'sensing and recording ultrasound signals received by each other ultrasound element in the ultrasound array; and', 'repeating the steps of transmitting, sensing and recording, wherein the step of transmitting is performed in turn by each ultrasound element in the ultrasound array other than the first ultrasound element;, 'performing a full-matrix-capture scan of the first point about a surface of the object, comprisingrepositioning the ultrasound array at a second point about the surface of the object;performing a full-matrix-capture scan of the second point about the surface of the object; andrepeating the steps of repositioning and performing a full-matrix-capture scan.34. The method of claim 33 , further comprising claim 33 , before performing each full-matrix-capture scan: ...

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01-04-2021 дата публикации

FLEXIBLE MAGNETOSTRICTIVE GUIDED WAVE PIPE INSPECTION SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED MAGNETS

Номер: US20210096107A1
Принадлежит: FBS, INC.

A system includes a magnetostrictive strip configured to be wrapped at least partially around an outer surface of a structure. A plurality of coil circuits are disposed on at least one flexible PCB that is configured to be disposed adjacent to the magnetostrictive strip. Each coil circuit is individually controllable by a plurality of channels to at least one of excite or detect guided waves in the structure. A plurality of magnets are configured to induce a magnetic field in the magnetostrictive strip. A connector is configured electrically connect at least one of the plurality of coil circuits and at least one the plurality of channels. A body constructed from a flexible material is sized and configured to at least partially encapsulate at least one other component of the system. 1. A system for non-destructive inspection of a structure , comprising:at least one magnetostrictive strip configured to be wrapped at least partially around an outer surface of a structure;a plurality of coil circuits disposed on at least one flexible printed circuit board assembly, the at least one flexible printed circuit board assembly is configured to be disposed adjacent to said at least one magnetostrictive strip, each coil circuit of the plurality of coil circuits is individually controllable to at least one of excite or detect guided waves in said structure;a plurality of magnets configured to induce a bias magnetic field in the at least one magnetostrictive strip; anda body constructed from a flexible material, the body sized and configured to at least partially encapsulate at least one other component of the system.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein each coil circuit of said plurality of coil circuits is individually controllable e using at least one of active phased-array focusing or synthetic phased-array focusing of the guided waves.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein said body is formed from at least one of urethane claim 1 , silicone claim 1 , neoprene claim 1 , Viton claim ...

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12-05-2022 дата публикации

Energy efficient simplified analogue phased array transducer for beam steering

Номер: US20220146461A1
Принадлежит: NovioScan B.V.

The present invention relates in a first aspect to an energy efficient simplified analogue phased array transducer for ultrasound beam steering, in a second aspect to a product, such as a small wearable ultrasound device for signalling changes in a human or animal body, such as a liquid volume in a body cavity of a human or an animal, in a third aspect to a use of said device, and in a fourth aspect to a method of operating an ultrasound device. 1. Phased array transducer for ultrasound beam steering comprisingan array of n*m transducer elements operating at a frequency of 20 kHz-50 MHz, preferably wherein at least two neighbouring transducer elements are at a mutual distance of approximately 0.5 wavelength (λ±10%), preferably at least 1*m transducers,transmission control electronics for beam steering of the array comprising at least one high-voltage pulse source, preferably of >12 V, wherein sources are linked to a low-voltage timing circuit, preferably of <5.5V for timing of the at least one pulse sources,receiving control electronics simplified to limit energy consumption when processing received ultrasound, wherein the receiving control electronics is selected from (i) at least one and preferably all ultrasound receiving transducer element are adapted for determining ultrasound energy in connection with a rectifying amplifier and the rectifying amplifier in connection with an analogue adder for adding the outputs of the rectifying amplifiers, (ii) <50%, preferably <20%, of the n*m transducer elements connected or connectable to receive electronics, and (iii) combinations thereof, andan electrical power source in electrical connection with the array or an electrical connection for providing electrical power to the array.2. Phased array transducer according to claim 1 , wherein the rectifying amplifier is selected from circuits like a diode claim 1 , a quadratic amplifier claim 1 , a convertor for converting a negative amplitude into a positive amplitude and for ...

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28-03-2019 дата публикации

Immersible ultrasonic probe for nondestructive examination and imaging in harsh and high temperature media and method of making

Номер: US20190094186A1
Принадлежит: Battelle Memorial Institute Inc

Immersible ultrasonic probes and methods of making are disclosed that provide nondestructive examination, imaging, and assessment of submerged targets in various liquid media including corrosive and optically opaque media at harsh conditions. In one embodiment the probe is a phased-array ultrasonic testing probe that includes an array of piezoelectric elements configured to transmit ultrasonic signals at selected frequencies through an opaque medium that enables nondestructive examination, characterization, and imaging of targets in the opaque medium.

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23-04-2015 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCER AND ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME

Номер: US20150107362A1
Принадлежит: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.

An ultrasonic transducer and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus are provided. An ultrasonic transducer includes a substrate including a trench formed in a lower surface of the substrate; and a first element and a second element formed on an upper surface of the substrate and are located adjacent to each other, wherein the trench is positioned between the first element and the second element, wherein the first element and the second element each include a plurality of ultrasonic cells that are two-dimensionally arranged; wherein a first contour line of the first element and a second contour line of the second element, which are adjacent to each other, each form a zig-zag line which are complementary with each other, and the trench is formed in a zig-zag pattern between the first contour line and the second contour line. 1. An ultrasonic transducer comprising:a substrate including a trench formed in a lower surface of the substrate; anda first element and a second element formed on an upper surface of the substrate and are located adjacent to each other;wherein the trench is positioned between the first element and the second element,wherein the first element and the second element each include a plurality of ultrasonic cells that are two-dimensionally arranged,wherein a first contour line of the first element and a second contour line of the second element, which are adjacent to each other, each form a zig-zag line which are complementary with each other, and the trench is formed in a zig-zag pattern between the first contour line and the second contour line.2. The ultrasonic transducer of claim 1 , wherein the first contour line is a line configured to connect edges of a plurality of first ultrasonic cells adjacent to the trench from among the plurality of ultrasonic cells in the first element claim 1 , and the second contour line is a line connecting edges of a plurality of second ultrasonic cells adjacent to the trench from among the plurality of ultrasonic cells in ...

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02-06-2022 дата публикации

METHODS FOR PERFORMING TASKS INHERENTLY SAFELY IN A TANK CONTAINING HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

Номер: US20220170890A1
Принадлежит: TANKBOTS, INC.

A method of performing a selected task in a tank at least partially filled with an energetic substance includes, in part, configuring a mobile platform to be inherently safe by positioning spark-generating components in either or both of: (i) an inherently safe enclosure that prevents a spark occurring inside the inherently safe enclosure from passing to an exterior of the inherently safe enclosure, and (ii) a spark-neutralizing body formed of at least one non-flammable substance and positioned inside an enclosure, the spark-neutralizing body blocking direct contact between a spark from the enclosed spark-generating component and an energetic substance from occurring inside the at least one enclosure. The method also includes positioning at least one spark-generating component not inside any inherently safe enclosure that prevents a spark occurring inside the inherently safe enclosure from passing to an exterior of the inherently safe enclosure. The sparks are capable of igniting the energetic substances. 21700. The method of claim 1 , further characterized in that the at least one spark-neutralizing body () includes at least one of: (i) a gas claim 1 , (ii) a liquid claim 1 , (iii) a solid claim 1 , (iv) a particulate solid claim 1 , and (v) mixtures thereof.317001710. The method of claim 1 , further characterized in that the at least one spark-neutralizing body () is a solid that completely encapsulates the at least one spark-generating component ().417001710. The method of claim 1 , further characterized in that the at least one spark-neutralizing body () includes a liquid in which the at least one spark-generating component () is completely immersed.517001710. The method of claim 1 , further characterized in that the at least one spark-neutralizing body () includes a particulate solid in which the at least one spark-generating component () is completely immersed.617001214208200. The method of claim 1 , further characterized in that the at least one spark- ...

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02-06-2022 дата публикации

AUTOMATIC ULTRASONIC IMAGING INSPECTION METHOD AND SYSTEM BASED ON SIX-AXIS MANIPULATOR

Номер: US20220170891A1
Принадлежит:

An automatic ultrasonic imaging inspection method and system based on a six-axis manipulator. The method includes: controlling, by a motion control card, a six-axis manipulator to perform scanning and an external axis motor to move; when scanning, feeding back, by a probe, an echo signal; when the probe moves to another scanning line, sending, by a controller, a displacement information of the probe along a stepping direction to an ultrasonic imaging device; when the external axis motor works, feeding back, by an encoder, a displacement information of the probe along a scanning direction to the ultrasonic imaging device; allowing the external axis motor to work when the probe moves along a scanning line; and generating, by the ultrasonic imaging device, a two-dimensional scanning image according to the echo signal, and the displacement information of the probe along the stepping direction and the scanning direction. 1. An automatic ultrasonic imaging inspection method based on a six-axis manipulator , comprising:performing acquisition and programming of key points along a scanning path of a probe by a teach pendant and sending a program command to a controller; and parsing, by the controller, the program command into a running command of the six-axis manipulator and a running command of an external axis motor followed by sending to a motion control card, so as to allow the motion control card to control the six-axis manipulator to drive the probe to perform scanning in a scanning plane above a workpiece to be inspected according to the running command of the six-axis manipulator and allow the motion control card to control the external axis motor to rotate according to the running command of the external axis motor; wherein the scanning plane is divided into a plurality of scanning lines along a scanning direction; and the plurality of the scanning lines are connected in sequence along a stepping direction to form the scanning path;the probe is arranged on a flange ...

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02-04-2020 дата публикации

LASER ULTRASOUND SCANNING FOR VISUALIZING DAMAGE OR IRREGULARITIES

Номер: US20200103375A1
Принадлежит:

Methods and systems may be configured to integrate data from fixed nondestructive inspection sensors positioned on a test specimen and data from laser ultrasound scans of the test specimen, in order to monitor and track damage and stress indications in the test specimen in real-time during mechanical stress testing of the test specimen. Data from the laser ultrasound scans may identify emergent areas of interest within the test specimen that were not predicted by stress analysis, and further allow for reconfiguration of the test plan in view of the emergent areas of interest, without having the stop the test. Laser ultrasound scans may be performed on the entire test specimen, with high-resolution scans being performed on emergent areas of interest. Thus, stress indications, or stress effects, in the test specimen may be measured, identified, and tracked in real-time (e.g., as growth is propagating) in a test specimen undergoing structural tests. 1. A method of testing a test specimen , the method comprising:monitoring the test specimen with a fixed non-destructive inspection (NDI) sensor fixed with respect to the test specimen, wherein the NDI sensor is configured to monitor indications of damage in or on the test specimen, and wherein the NDI sensor is configured to produce fixed sensor data related to the test specimen;scanning at least a portion of the test specimen using a laser ultrasound device, thereby producing a first laser ultrasound scan of stress effects within the test specimen;storing the first laser ultrasound scan; andintegrating scan data from the first laser ultrasound scan with the fixed sensor data from the NDI sensor.2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising:determining one or more emergent areas of interest by comparing the first laser ultrasound scan with a second laser ultrasound scan produced by a second performance of the scanning at least the portion of the test specimen; andscanning a respective emergent area of interest ...

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11-04-2019 дата публикации

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING FASTENERS

Номер: US20190107514A1
Принадлежит: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

A fastener probe assembly includes a disc configured to rotate about a first axis of a fastener, an ultrasound probe coupled to the disc, and an encoder configured to determine an orientation of the ultrasound probe relative to the first axis of the fastener during an inspection of the fastener. The ultrasound probe is configured to interface with an axial end of the fastener, to emit ultrasound signals into the axial end of the fastener, and to receive ultrasound signals from the fastener. 1. A fastener probe assembly comprising:a disc configured to rotate about a first axis of a fastener;an ultrasound probe coupled to the disc, wherein the ultrasound probe is configured to interface with an axial end of the fastener, to emit ultrasound signals into the axial end of the fastener, and to receive ultrasound signals from the fastener; andan encoder configured to determine an orientation of the ultrasound probe relative to the first axis of the fastener during an inspection of the fastener.2. The fastener probe assembly of claim 1 , comprising a housing configured to at least partially receive the axial end of the fastener and to interface with the fastener to align the first axis of the fastener with a second axis of the disc.3. The fastener probe assembly of claim 2 , wherein the housing comprises a manual lock feature configured to maintain an orientation of the housing relative to the fastener.4. The fastener probe assembly of claim 2 , wherein the housing comprises a plurality of biased pins configured to interface with driving surfaces of the fastener to maintain an orientation of the housing relative to the fastener.5. The fastener probe assembly of claim 1 , comprising a sensor configured to determine an identity of a fastener based at least in part on an identifier of fastener.6. The fastener probe assembly of claim 5 , wherein the sensor is configured to detect a radio frequency identification tag corresponding to the identity of the fastener.7. The fastener ...

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26-04-2018 дата публикации

Phased array weld inspection system with assisted analysis tools

Номер: US20180113100A1

Disclosed is an assisted analysis unit for facilitating phased array defect inspection. The analysis unit comprises an identification & merging module, and a sizing module. The modules are capable of displaying defect contours from multiple groups of indications, and of recommending defect merging candidates and defect sizing methods. However both modules also accept user input so that the final decisions rest with the operator.

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26-04-2018 дата публикации

Method And Apparatus For Low-Power Ultraportable Ultrasound Imaging

Номер: US20180113205A1
Принадлежит:

Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed for ultrasound imaging comprising Time Delay Spectrometry. A frequency swept signal can be transmitted through a medium, such as human tissue. The signal can be a low-voltage signal (e.g., 0 volts to 5 volts peak-to-peak) transmitted for long duration (e.g., 20 milliseconds) at various frequencies. As the signal propagates through the medium it can be reflected and delayed. A delay associated with the signal the can cause a change in the associated frequencies. The signal can be filtered to retain only frequencies in an audio frequency range. The signal can be beamformed and processed to produce an image. 1. A method comprising:transmitting, from a source via a transmit channel of a transducer, a swept frequency signal through a medium;determining, based on a time delay associated with the swept frequency signal, a plurality frequencies, wherein the time delay associated with the swept frequency signal is based the signal propagating through the medium;determining, based one or more components of the signal received via a receive channel of the transducer and a range, one or more frequencies associated with the swept frequency signal; anddetermining, based on the one or more frequencies and a steering angle, an image.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the image is an electrical representation of a region of interest associated with the medium.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the medium is a tissue.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the one or more frequencies associated with the swept frequency signal comprises a Fourier Transformation of at least a portion of the swept frequency signal.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the swept frequency signal is comprises a voltage of five volts or less.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the image is determined in real-time.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the transmit channel of the transducer comprises a two-channel transmit element and the receive channel of the ...

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07-05-2015 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC TESTING SENSOR AND ULTRASONIC TESTING METHOD

Номер: US20150122029A1
Принадлежит:

The transmission sensor T and the reception sensor R are disposed so as to sandwich a testing target therebetween. The reception sensor R receives a false signal arising from a GL generated upon ML scanning by a scanning angle equal to or greater than a minimum scanning angle Φmin but equal to or smaller than a maximum scanning angle Φmax. 1. An ultrasonic testing sensor , comprising:a transmission sensor configured from ultrasonic elements of a parallelepiped arrayed one-dimensionally, the transmission sensor transmitting ultrasonic waves whose center frequency has a wavelength λ; anda reception sensor configured from ultrasonic elements of a parallelepiped arrayed one-dimensionally, the reception sensor receiving reflected waves of the ultrasonic waves, whereinthe reception sensor receives a grating lobe in accordance with a main lobe, the grating lobe being reflected within a testing range scanned by the main lobe having a scanning angle equal to or greater than a minimum scanning angle Φmin but equal to or smaller than a maximum scanning angle Φmax.4. An ultrasonic testing method , comprising the steps of:calculating a generation angle Δφ a grating lobe;evaluating, on the basis of a shape of a testing target and positions of a transmission sensor and a reception sensor with respect to the testing target, whether there exists a reflection source in a grating lobe generation direction;measuring a reception position of a reflected wave by the reception sensor; andcomparing the reception position of the grating lobe based on the calculated generation angle Δφ and the measured reception position of the reflected wave with each other to evaluate whether the reflected wave is a reflected wave of the grating lobe.5. The ultrasonic testing method according to claim 4 , further comprising the steps of:transmitting a main lobe in the grating lobe generation direction; anddetermining, when a reflected wave by the main lobe is measured at the reception position of the ...

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07-05-2015 дата публикации

Methods and systems for non-destructive inspection

Номер: US20150122055A1
Принадлежит: Boeing Co

Disclosed non-destructive inspection methods comprise non-contact determination of the location of a non-destructive inspection probe and identification of the location on a test structure where test data is acquired by the probe. Determination may include capturing the positions of the probe and the test structure with one or more electronic cameras. Identification may include associating the acquired test data with the location of the probe relative to the test structure. Further, methods may comprise visualization of the test data relative to the identified location. Disclosed non-destructive inspection systems comprise a probe, one or more electronic cameras, a computer, and a display, together configured to determine the location of the probe, to acquire test data with the probe, to identify a location on a test structure associated with the test data, and to visualize the test data in relation to the test structure.

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27-04-2017 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR THE NON-DESTRUCTIVE ULTRASOUND TESTING OF WORKPIECES WITH IMPROVED HANDLING AND METHOD

Номер: US20170115254A1
Автор: RATERING Ralf
Принадлежит:

The present embodiments relate to a device for the non-destructive ultrasound testing of workpieces. The device comprises an ultrasonic test probe with an ultrasonic transducer, the ultrasonic test probe being configured for generating and coupling ultrasonic signals into a workpiece or/and for receiving ultrasonic signals from the workpiece. Furthermore, an electronic control unit is provided. The ease of operation is improved as a whole by a special configuration of the test probe and the control unit. Furthermore, the embodiments relate to a method for the non-destructive ultrasound testing of workpieces. 1. A device for the non-destructive ultrasound testing of workpieces , comprising:an ultrasonic test probe with an ultrasonic transducer, the ultrasonic test probe being configured for generating and coupling ultrasonic signals into a workpiece or/and for receiving ultrasonic signals from the workpiece;an electronic control unit; andan input unit, which is disposed on the ultrasonic test probe and configured for a communication with the electronic control unit in order to transmit control commands by a user issued by the input unit to the electronic control unit.2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the electronic control unit comprises one of:a transmitting/receiving unit configured for communication with the ultrasonic transducer for the purpose of transmitting or/and receiving ultrasonic signals, oran evaluation unit configured for a communication with a transmitting/receiving unit in order to process received ultrasonic signals, the transmitting/receiving unit being configured for communication with the ultrasonic transducer for the purpose of transmitting or/and receiving ultrasonic signals.3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the input unit is configured as a mechanical operating element claim 1 , which is sensitive to one or more of the following input parameters or/and their change over time: actuating force claim 1 , angle of rotation ...

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09-04-2020 дата публикации

Robotic Platforms and Robots for Nondestructive Testing Applications, Including Their Production and Use

Номер: US20200108501A1

Robotic platforms and methods of use are disclosed that include: at least one robot or robotic device, at least one computer-based control system, wherein the system is at least in part located on the at least one robot, at least one communications system, wherein the communications system is designed to communicate between the computer-based control system and the at least one robot, and at least one evaluation system that is designed to implement and process at least one nondestructive testing method.

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09-04-2020 дата публикации

PROCESS FOR FINDING POTENTIAL DEFECT INDICATIONS IN REAL TIME WHILE ULTRASONICALLY SCANNING A WELD

Номер: US20200110062A1
Принадлежит: VeriPhase, Inc.

A process is disclosed in which a computing device reads electronic data from an ultrasonic scanning probe and processes that data in real time to determine if any potential weld defects are encountered as the probe head moves along scanning the weld. The method receives weld scan data in the form of scanning slices and determines if any of the encountered indications match a predetermined criterion. The process utilizes a moving scan data window of scan slices and processes each window for indications of weld defects. The processing of the data window is optimized using a rule-based, indications counting set so that any found defect indications triggers the issuance of a signal to an operator, in various forms, such as activating a marking module, issuing an alert signal, or printing a report. 1. A process for producing a signal indicating a potential weld flaw indication , comprising the steps of:a. scanning a weld for indications of potential flaws in said weld using a scanning probe head;b. receiving weld scan data from said probe head in a computer device;c. in said computer device, processing in real time said received scan data to remove non-meritorious defect indications;d. after said processing step, determining if any remaining defect indications satisfy a predetermined criterion;e. keeping a running tally of criteria matching defect indications; and,f. responsive to said criteria determination step, issuing a signal indicative of the existence of any said remaining meritorious indications.2. The process as recited in claim 1 , wherein said step of processing said received scan data in real time comprises the steps of:a. establishing a first scanning data window of scanning slices of said weld;b. processing said scanning data window for weld defect indications;c. establishing an indications set representing the number of indications found in said scanning data window;d. processing successive scanning data windows received from said scanning probe upon ...

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05-05-2016 дата публикации

APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR INSPECTING A COMPONENT

Номер: US20160123934A1
Принадлежит:

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. 1. An apparatus for inspecting a component , comprising:a first feature inspector comprising at least one wave transducer configured to inspect a first feature of the component, the first feature inspector further comprising 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; anda second feature inspector comprising at least one wave transducer configured to inspect a second feature of the component, the second feature inspector further comprising 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.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first feature inspector further comprises first and second housings spaced longitudinally apart from each other along the first feature claim 1 , and wherein each of the first and second housings of the first feature inspector houses at least one wave transducer.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the first feature inspector comprises a first displacement sensor movably coupled to the ...

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03-05-2018 дата публикации

ARRAYS OF ACOUSTIC TRANSDUCERS FOR PHYSICAL ANALYSIS OF BATTERIES

Номер: US20180120261A1
Принадлежит:

Systems and methods for analyzing physical characteristics of a battery include arrangements of two or more transducers coupled to the battery. A control module controls one or more of the two or more transducers to transmit acoustic signals through at least a portion of the battery, and one or more of the two or more transducers to receive response acoustic signals. Distribution of physical properties of the battery is determined based at least on the transmitted acoustic signals and the response acoustic signals. 1. An apparatus comprising:an arrangement of two or more transducers coupled to a battery;a control module configured to control one or more of the two or more transducers to transmit acoustic signals through at least a portion of the battery, and one or more of the two or more transducers to receive response acoustic signals; andan analyzer configured to determine a distribution of physical properties of the battery based on the transmitted acoustic signals and the response acoustic signals.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the arrangement comprises an array of the two or more transducers claim 1 , wherein a shape of the array is based on a surface of the battery that the arrangement of the two or more transducers are coupled to or a direction of the distribution of the physical properties.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the array is a linear array or a curved array claim 2 , based on whether the shape or direction is radial claim 2 , through claim 2 , axial claim 2 , or areal.4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the array is one-dimensional or two-dimensional.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein a distance between two or more transducers in the arrangement of two or more transducers is based on a tightly spaced arrangement or a sparsely spaced arrangement.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the control module is configured to control relative timing between two or more pulses transmitted through two or more transducers based on a desired ...

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16-04-2020 дата публикации

PHASED-ARRAY FLAW-DETECTION DEVICE AND METHOD

Номер: US20200116672A1

A plurality of ultrasonic transducers of the invented probe are separated in a concentric circle pattern, separated in rows that are orthogonal to a reference line L that passes through the center of circles, and positioned line symmetrically with respect to the reference line L. The detection surface of the invented probe has a circular shape having the diameter D, and has a plurality of segments divided into a plurality of arc-shaped portions that are symmetrical with respect to the reference line L. Further a controller which has a plurality of control channels for controlling pairs of the line symmetrical ultrasonic transducers under the same conditions is provided. 1. A phased-array flaw-detection device comprising:a phased-array probe having a plurality of ultrasonic transducers which are separated in a concentric circle pattern, separated in rows that are orthogonal to a reference line that passes through the center of circles, and positioned line symmetrically with respect to the reference line; anda controller which has a plurality of control channels for controlling pairs of the line symmetrical ultrasonic transducers under the same conditions.2. The phased-array flaw-detection device according to claim 1 ,wherein the phased-array probe has a circular detection surface for transmitting and receiving an ultrasonic beam, andthe detection surface has a plurality of segments divided into a plurality of arc-shaped portions that are symmetrical with respect to the reference line.3. The phased-array flaw-detection device according to claim 2 ,wherein dividing lines of the segments are composed of a plurality of concentric circular dividing lines that divide the circle into a plurality of annular portions, and a plurality of linear dividing lines which divide the annular portions into the arc-shaped portions and which are parallel to each other.4. The phased-array flaw-detection device according to claim 3 , wherein the linear dividing lines are orthogonal to the ...

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10-05-2018 дата публикации

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SPECIMEN INSPECTION USING ULTRASONIC WAVE GENERATION

Номер: US20180128784A1
Принадлежит: Quest Integrated, LLC

Systems and methods for specimen inspection using ultrasonic wave generation are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus for inspecting a solid object using ultrasound includes: a pulser having pulser ports for outputting electrical signals. The apparatus also includes a switching array for receiving the signals from the pulser ports as individual channels, and routing the signals to individual elements of a transmitter array. The apparatus also includes the transmitter array, where each element of the transmitter array generates ultrasound in the solid object in response to the signal received from the switching array. 1. An apparatus for inspecting a solid object using ultrasound , comprising:a pulser having a plurality of pulser ports configured to output electrical signals; receive the signals from the pulser ports as individual channels, and', 'route the signals to individual elements of a transmitter array; and, 'a switching array configured tothe transmitter array, wherein each element of the transmitter array is configured to generate ultrasound in the solid object in response to the signal received from the switching array,wherein at least two elements of the transmitter array are configured to receive the signals from different pulser ports, and wherein at least two elements of the transmitter array are configured to receive the signals from the same pulser port.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the individual elements of the transmitter array comprise piezoelectric fibers.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the individual elements of the transmitter array comprise coils.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the switching array is a transmitter switching array claim 1 , and the signals are transmitter signals claim 1 , the apparatus further comprising:a receiver array, wherein each element of the receiver array is configured to generate electrical receiver signals in response to ultrasound waves; and receive the receiver signals from the ...

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23-04-2020 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC SCANNER FOR PIPELINE USE

Номер: US20200122277A1
Автор: Rampersad Dale Rohan
Принадлежит: SHAWCOR, LTD.

A scanner assembly for pipeline inspection, having a pipe mounting section and a scanner frame which is laterally displaceable with respect to the pipe mounting section. 1. A scanner assembly for external inspection of a pipeline girth weld , the apparatus comprising:a pipe mount section, mountable by mounting means to a mounting band affixed to the pipeline and capable of rotating around the circumference of the pipeline by travelling around the mounting band;a scanner frame section, having scanner mounts;wherein the scanner frame section has displacement means relative to the pipe mount section, such that the scanner frame section can be displaced laterally in relation to the pipe mount section when said pipe mount section is affixed to the pipeline.2. The scanner assembly of claim 1 , wherein the displacement means comprise at least one linear ball bearing slide.3. The scanner assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of the scanner mounts comprise a scanner attachment means and a spring loaded mechanism claim 1 , having a travel distance claim 1 , for biasing the scanner attachment means towards the pipeline.4. The scanner assembly of claim 3 , wherein the travel distance of the spring loaded mechanism is shorter than a travel distance of the lateral displacement of the scanner frame section.5. The scanner assembly of claim 1 , having at least four scanner mounts.6. The scanner assembly of claim 5 , having at least 8 scanner mounts.7. The scanner assembly of claim 1 , wherein the mounting means comprise at least one claim 1 , preferably a set claim 1 , of fixed wheels and at least one claim 1 , preferably a set claim 1 , of opposing displaceable wheels claim 1 , configured such that the displaceable wheels can displace to frictionally mount or clamp onto a wheel engagement surface of the mounting band.8. The scanner assembly of claim 1 , wherein the pipe mount section also comprises a track engagement means claim 1 , driven by a motor claim 1 , capable of engaging and ...

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11-05-2017 дата публикации

BEAM FORMING AND STEERING OF HELICAL GUIDED WAVES IN PIPE-LIKE AND PLATE-LIKE STRUCTURES

Номер: US20170131242A1
Принадлежит: QI2 Elements, LLC

A method of inspecting a pipe for flaws includes emitting ultrasonic waves, controlling the emission of the ultrasonic waves, receiving reflections of the ultrasonic waves, and determining at least one characteristic of one or more flaws. The ultrasonic waves are emitted in a helical pattern through the pipe from an array of ultrasonic transducer elements. The emission of the ultrasonic waves from the array is controlled such that the ultrasonic waves are emitted at a plurality of helical angles within a range of helical angles. The reflections of the ultrasonic waves are caused by impingement of the ultrasonic waves on the one or more flaws. The at least one characteristic of the one or more flaws is determined based on the received reflections of the ultrasonic waves. 1. A method of inspecting a pipe for flaws comprising:emitting ultrasonic waves in a helical pattern through the pipe from an array of ultrasonic transducer elements;controlling the emission of the ultrasonic waves from the array such that the ultrasonic waves are emitted at a plurality of helical angles within a range of helical angles;receiving reflections of the ultrasonic waves, the reflections of the ultrasonic waves caused by impingement of the ultrasonic waves on one or more flaws; anddetermining at least one characteristic of the one or more flaws based on the received reflections of the ultrasonic waves.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one characteristic of the one or more flaws comprises one or more of a location of the one or more flaws claim 1 , a size of the one or more flaws claim 1 , an orientation of the one or more flaws claim 1 , or a shape of the one or more flaws.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one characteristic of the one or more flaws is determined based a presence or an absence of an anomalous signature claim 1 , the method further comprising:mapping the at least one characteristic based on at least one of an amplitude distribution in time, an ...

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02-05-2019 дата публикации

ULTRASONIC PHASED ARRAY TRANSDUCER APPARATUS FOR THE NONDESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF A COMPONENT UNDER TEST

Номер: US20190128855A1
Принадлежит: WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC COMPANY LLC

A phased array transducer apparatus includes a plurality of Phases Array Subassemblies (PASAs) that are arranged in three pairs in a single housing. The PASAs are each oriented at a compound angle with respect to a component under test in an environment such as a nuclear environment. The phased array transducer apparatus is carried into the environment by a tool, and the positioning of the PASAs on the phased array transducer apparatus results in the outputting of ultrasonic beams in various directions that avoids the need for the housing to be reoriented on the tool in order to complete an inspection of the object under test. 1. A phased array transducer apparatus structured to be connectable with a computer and to be carried by a tool into a nuclear environment to perform an ultrasonic inspection operation on a component under test within the nuclear environment , the phased array transducer apparatus comprising:a housing comprising a base, the base having an engagement surface that is structured to be engaged with the component under test during at least a portion of the ultrasonic inspection operation;a plurality of Phased Array SubAssemblies (PASAs) each comprising a plurality of ultrasonic elements and being situated on the base, the plurality of PASAs comprising a first PASA, a second PASA, a third PASA, a fourth PASA, a fifth PASA, and a sixth PASA;the first PASA being oriented at a first oblique angle with respect to the engagement surface and being structured to output a first ultrasonic signal into the component under test;the second PASA being oriented at a second oblique angle with respect to the engagement surface and being structured to output a second ultrasonic signal into the component under test;the third PASA being oriented at a third oblique angle with respect to the engagement surface and being structured to output a third ultrasonic signal into the component under test;the fourth PASA being oriented at a fourth oblique angle with respect to ...

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02-05-2019 дата публикации

Ultrasonic scanner with interchangeable wedge and flexible probe

Номер: US20190128856A1

An ultrasound probe assembly comprises a housing and a wedge, wherein wedges configured for pipes of different diameter may be easily interchanged in the assembly. Four wheels are attached to the housing, there being a front wheel pair and a rear wheel pair. Wheels of each pair are positioned on either side of a linear probe array, wherein the distance between wheels in each pair in a direction perpendicular to the array length is as small as possible. A position encoder monitors the position of the assembly during scanning, and a push lock switch is used to disable the encoder and the data acquisition while indexing to a new scan position on the pipe.

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07-08-2014 дата публикации

DEVICE FOR THE NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF A TEST OBJECT BY MEANS OF ULTRASOUND, METHOD FOR OPERATING SUCH A DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF A TEST OBJECT BY MEANS OF ULTRASOUND

Номер: US20140216160A1
Автор: Renzel Peter

The present invention relates to a device for the non-destructive testing of a test object by means of ultrasound. The device comprises a control unit provided for driving a phased array ultrasonic test probe and a display. The control unit is configured to operate the phased array test probe in the pulse echo operation and to control the insonification angle Θ of the phased array test probe into the test object. The pulse echo from the test object received by the phased array test probe is analyzed by the control unit, wherein the control unit generates an A-scan or/and a B-scan of a received pulse echo on the display. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a device and a method for the non-destructive inspection of a test object by means of ultrasound in accordance with the TCG method, using a phased array ultrasonic test probe. 115-. (canceled)16. A device for non-destructive inspection of a test object by means of ultrasound , the device comprising a control unit provided for driving a phased array ultrasonic test probe and a display , wherein the control unit is configured to:operate the phased array test probe in the pulse echo operation and to control the insonification angle Θ of the phased array test probe into the test object,analyze the pulse echo from the test object received by the phased array test probe,show an A-scan or/and a B-scan of a received pulse echo on the display,vary periodically the insonification angle Θ about a central insonification angle Θ0,determine the insonification angle Θmax at which the amplitude of the received pulse echo is at maximum, andto show an A-scan and a B-scan of the pulse echo on the display for the insonification angle Θmax, anddisplay, in the B-scan of the received pulse echo, a straight line G which represents the sound path at the insonification angle Θmax.17. The device according to claim 16 , wherein the control unit is further configured to analyze the received pulse echo at least over one ...

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17-05-2018 дата публикации

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VIEWING DATA GENERATED BY ROTATIONAL SCANNING IN NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING

Номер: US20180136172A1
Принадлежит:

A testing system for testing a work piece. The testing system may be non-destructive. An associated method. The method may include obtaining C-scan images and corresponding S-scan images. The C-scan images and the corresponding S-scan images are of the same portion of the work piece being tested. 1. A testing system for testing a work piece , the testing system comprising:an ultrasonic probe outputting at least one beam from a location within the work piece being tested;a control unit for controlling the ultrasonic probe from a location outside of the work piece being tested; andwherein the ultrasonic probe and the control unit configured to obtain at least one of C-scan images and corresponding S-scan images of the same portion of the work piece being tested.2. The testing system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic probe comprises a two-dimensional array probe.3. The testing system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic probe comprises a translational device.4. The testing system of claim 1 , comprising a hand-held display configured to display the C-scan images in a radar-like view with a beam cursor.5. The testing system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic probe produces a plurality of C-scan images.6. The testing system of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic probe produces a plurality of S-scan images.7. A non-destructive testing system for testing a work piece claim 1 , the non-destructive testing system comprising:an ultrasonic probe configured for a first S-scan image at a first direction orientation and the ultrasonic probe configured for a second S-scan image at a second direction orientation different from the first direction orientation.8. The non-destructive testing system of claim 1 , further comprising a motor for rotating the ultrasonic probe.9. The non-destructive testing system of claim 8 , wherein the motor comprises a position encoder in communication with the ultrasonic probe.10. A method of viewing non-destructive test data in connection with testing ...

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10-06-2021 дата публикации

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF VARIABLE ANGLE MANUFACTURING COMPONENTS

Номер: US20210172910A1
Принадлежит:

Disclosed herein is a non-destructive inspection apparatus that utilizes a biased probe housing to maintain ultrasonic coupling with a part. The apparatus includes an attachment body attached to a robotic arm that has a tool center point (TCP). The apparatus also includes a probe assembly coupled to the attachment body such that movement of the TCP results in a corresponding movement of the probe assembly, and a probe housing disposed around the probe assembly and moveably coupled to the attachment body. The apparatus also includes a biasing member disposed between the attachment body and the probe housing that urges the probe housing away from the attachment body. Also disclosed is a method that includes positioning a probe housing and a probe assembly adjacent a part, ultrasonically scanning the part for defects, and biasing the probe housing relative to the attachment body to maintain engagement of the part. 1. A non-destructive inspection (NDI) apparatus comprising:an attachment body configured to attach to a robotic arm, where the robotic arm defines a tool center point (TCP);an ultrasonic probe assembly fixedly coupled to the attachment body such that the ultrasonic probe assembly is non-moveably fixed relative to the TCP of the robotic arm and movement of the TCP by the robotic arm results in a corresponding movement of the ultrasonic probe assembly;a probe housing disposed around the ultrasonic probe assembly and moveably coupled to the attachment body such that the ultrasonic probe housing is moveable relative to the ultrasonic probe assembly; anda biasing member disposed between the attachment body and the probe housing, where the biasing member urges the probe housing away from the attachment body.2. The NDI apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a first housing rod slidably coupled with an opening in the probe housing claim 1 , wherein the biasing member is disposed between the opening of the probe housing and the attachment body and the first housing ...

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04-06-2015 дата публикации

Turbine blade testing device and testing method thereof

Номер: US20150153310A1

According to one embodiment, a testing device of a turbine blade includes: a non-compressive elastic medium brought into close contact with a platform of the turbine blade in a state fastened to a turbine rotor; a probe which has piezoelectric elements arranged in an array and transmits ultrasound waves toward a fastening portion of the turbine blade through the elastic medium and receives echo waves; and a display portion for imaging an internal region of the fastening portion on the basis of the echo waves and displaying the same.

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