Acoustic inspection productivity can be enhanced using techniques to perform compression of acquired acoustic data, such as data corresponding to elementary A-scan or other time-series representations of received acoustic echo data. In various approaches described herein, time-series data can be decimated for efficient storage or transmission. A representation of the time-series data can be reconstructed, such as by using a Fourier transform-based up-sampling technique or a convolutional interpolation filter, as illustrative examples. The techniques described herein can be used for a variety of different acoustic measurement techniques that involve acquisition of time-series data (e.g., A-Scan data). Such techniques include Full Matrix Capture (FMC) applications, plane wave imaging (PWI), or PAUT, as illustrative examples.
Acoustic evaluation of a target can be performed using an array of electro-acoustic transducers. For example, a technique for such evaluation can include generating pulses for transmission by respective ones of a plurality of electro-acoustic transducers in a transducer array to contemporaneously establish respective acoustic beams corresponding to at least two different acoustic beam steering directions for an acquisition, the pulses comprising at least a first sequence having pulses of defining a profile having a first polarity, the first sequence corresponding to a first beam steering direction (e.g., angle or spatial beam direction), and a second sequence having pulses defining a profile having a second polarity opposite the first polarity, the second sequence corresponding to a second beam steering direction. In response to transmission of the pulses, respective acoustic echo signals can be received and aggregated to form an image of a region of interest on or within the target.
An eddy current probe assembly for analyzing an article is provided. The eddy current probe assembly includes a housing, an eddy current probe disposed on or within the housing, and a barrier layer. The housing has a coolant passage that extends into the housing and forms a loop within the housing. The coolant passage allows for coolant flow through the housing. The eddy current probe thermally couples with a first portion of the coolant passage at a first surface of the eddy current probe. The barrier layer is on a second surface of the eddy current probe opposite the first surface of the eddy current probe.
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
4.
ADAPTABLE APPARATUS FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION
Non-destructive testing of an elongate object can include using an adaptable apparatus to support objects having different cross-sectional profiles. For example, an adaptable inspection fixture can support inspection probes for acoustic or eddy current inspection, as illustrative examples. Generally, the apparatus comprises opposing portions which are pivotable and connected by a linkage to maintain the opposing portions in a specified orientation relative to each other while permitting independent rotational orientations of each respective opposing portion such as to accommodate test objects. For example, the opposing portions can be substantially parallel across multiple configurations. Optionally, the apparatus can maintain a specified orientation of one or more radius probes with respect to an object under test.
G01N 37/00 - Details not covered by any other group of this subclass
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
G01N 27/904 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents with two or more sensors
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details
Techniques for compensating the sensitivity variations induced by lift-off variations for an eddy current array probe. The techniques use the eddy current array probe coils in two separate ways to produce a first set of detection channels and a second set of lift-off measurement channels without the need to add coils 5 dedicated to the lift-off measurement operation.
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
G01N 27/904 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents with two or more sensors
6.
VOLUMETRIC INSPECTION USING ROW-COLUMN ADDRESSED PROBE
An ultrasound probe is capable of detecting flaws in an object in a non-destructive manner. The probe includes a row-column addressed (RCA) array with a plurality of row and column electrodes. The probe can perform volumetric inspection of an object using the RCA array in different transmission and reception configurations.
Examples of the present subject matter provide techniques to accurately size flaws using acoustic inspection without expending significant computing resources and time. Examples described herein include techniques to convert amplitude-based inspection images, such as TFM or phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) images, into sizing images based on Acoustic Influence Maps (AIMs).
Examples of the present subject matter provide techniques for enhancing images taken from non-destructive inspection techniques, such as acoustic inspection. A source 3D data may be acquired representing an object. Rather than displaying the source 3D data, signal processing may be employed to enhance the flaws or defects in the source 3D data. A geometry template of the object may be created using the source 3D data. The source 3D data may be compared to the geometry template, and based on the comparison, an enhanced 3D image may be generated.
An inspection system for inspecting an article, such as a railway wheel, is provided. The inspection system includes a robotic arm and a bath having a couplant. The inspection system has three sensors in the bath and in fluid communication with the couplant. The first sensor couples with the bath and is positioned within the bath to inspect a first area of an article. The second sensor couples with the bath different from the first sensor and is positioned to inspect a second area of the article. The third sensor is coupled with the bath and is positioned within the bath to inspect a third area of the article. One of the sensors couples with the bath such that during an inspection of the article within the bath the sensor may be adjusted to inspect a fourth area of the article.
G01N 37/00 - Details not covered by any other group of this subclass
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details providing acoustic coupling
In acoustic inspection, if a probe assembly fails to maintain a controlled lateral position relative to a structure such as a weld being inspected, as the probe assembly is translated along a scan axis, a nearby flaw could be missed or mistaken for an earlier-observed feature. Apparatus and techniques described herein can assist in tracking the lateral displacement of a probe assembly relative to a region of interest such as an edge or centerline of a weld. Such a technique can, for example, be used to gate the received ultrasonic data or to update a presentation to a user, such as for updating an overlay (e.g., a weld template) and ruler position in an S-scan or other image representation.
Examples of the present subject matter provide techniques for calculating amplitude fidelity (AF) for a variety of grid resolutions using a single TFM image of a specified flaw. Thus, the grid resolution may be set so that it yields a desired AF using a calculation process without performing a blind iterative process. Moreover, examples of the present subject matter may measure AF in more than one axis, improving accuracy.
Flaw detection information, acquired by one or more NDT modalities, can be applied to a trained machine learning model to automatically associate a detected flaw with a cluster of similar flaws. Then, a flaw identification output can be generated based on the association, such as indicted the flaw and an associated probability. In this manner, the described techniques can automatically classify and identify each detected flaw and, in some cases, no flaw conditions. These techniques can shorten the time between part rejection and flaw diagnosis and allow for automated process control.
G01N 37/00 - Details not covered by any other group of this subclass
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
G01S 15/89 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
A shoe for analyzing a component is provided. The shoe includes a housing, a NDT probe disposed on a side of the housing, and a shoe interface. The shoe interface is disposed at the side of the housing and contacts the component during the analyzing of the component. The shoe interface separates the NDT probe from the component during the analyzing of the component and moves along the component during the analyzing of the component. The shoe also includes first and second wear indicators. The first wear indicator indicates that the shoe interface is usable during the analyzing of the component. The second wear indicator indicates that the shoe interface should be replaced. Both of the wear indicators are configured similar to the shoe interface and move along the component while the shoe analyzes the component.
G01N 37/00 - Details not covered by any other group of this subclass
G01N 27/9093 - Arrangements for supporting the sensorCombinations of eddy-current sensors and auxiliary arrangements for marking or for rejecting
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details
Examples of the present subject matter provide techniques for gathering inspection data (e.g., c-scan) from a plurality of probes, such as ECA probes. Each probe may generate inspection data obtained from different in-plane probe orientations on a surface, such as providing indications from disturbances or flaws located in different in-plane directions relative to a probe sensitivity axis. The inspection data may then be combined while indications at different orientations may be preserved and then merged to generate a composite. Pattern recognition using templates defining flaws or abnormalities may then be performed to determine the type of indication, e.g., detrimental flaw or non-detrimental abnormality.
G01N 27/904 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents with two or more sensors
15.
ACOUSTIC IMAGING TECHNIQUES USING MACHINE LEARNING
A computerized method of image processing using processing circuitry to apply a previously trained machine learning model in a system for non-destructive testing (NDT) of a material is described. The method can include acquiring acoustic imaging data of the material, the acoustic imaging data acquired at least in part using an acoustic imaging modality, generating an acoustic imaging data set corresponding to an acoustic propagation mode, applying the previously trained machine learning model to the acoustic imaging data set, and generating an image of the material depicting a probability of a flaw per pixel or voxel based on the application of the previously trained machine learning model.
A system for non-destructively inspecting tubes is provided. The system may include a tank filled with a fluid, e.g., water. The tank may define an axial passage within it for tube insertion, and the tank may include an opening to the axial passage. A transducer probe may be disposed inside the tank and oriented toward the opening to the axial passage. The system may also include a movable seal including a chamber, configured to move axially in the axial passage, and a membrane positioned in the opening of the tank. During inspection, an acoustic pathway may be provided between the transducer probe and the tube, the pathway including fluid in the tank, the membrane, and fluid in the chamber.
G01B 7/00 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details providing acoustic coupling
A couplant feeding circuit is provided. The couplant feeding circuit has a first set of walls extending from a bottom surface and a second set of walls extending from the bottom surface and between the first set of walls. A membrane extends between the first and second set of walls such that the first and second set of walls along with the membrane form a couplant cavity. The couplant feeding circuit also has a couplant port disposed in one of the first or second set of walls that allows routing of couplant to the couplant cavity. Moreover, the couplant feeding circuit also has a vacuum port disposed in one of the first or second set of walls that allows removal of at least a portion of the couplant from the couplant cavity. Furthermore, the couplant port and the vacuum port form a closed loop within the couplant feeding circuit.
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details providing acoustic coupling
An ultrasound probe can detect flaws in an object in a non-destructive manner. The probe includes a row-column addressed (RCA) array with a plurality of row and column electrodes. The row and column electrodes are configurable to have at least four states: 1) a transmission state, 2) a reception state, 3) a ground state, and 4) a high impedance state. The probe also includes a control circuit to operate the RCA array in different transmission and reception configurations.
A scanning device is provided. The scanning device includes a frame having a first portion and a second portion pivotably coupled to the first frame portion. The scanning device also has a first set of wheels coupled with the first frame portion and a second set of wheels coupled with the second frame portion. In addition, the scanning device has a rail movably disposed on the first frame portion that includes a channel and a rail along with a rail arm coupled with the channel. The scanning device has a sensor assembly that includes sensor forks, a sensor coupled with the sensor forks and a sensor arm. The sensor arm is coupled with the sensor forks and with the rail arm. In addition, the sensor is adjustable between a first position and a second position via the rail.
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details providing acoustic coupling
An ultrasound probe can detect flaws in an object in a non-destructive manner. The probe includes a row-column addressed (RCA) array with a plurality of row and column electrodes. The row and column electrodes are configurable to have at least four states: 1) a transmission state, 2) a reception state, 3) a ground state, and 4) a high impedance state. The probe also includes a control circuit to operate the RCA array in different transmission and reception configurations.
G01S 15/88 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications
B23K 31/12 - Processes relevant to this subclass, specially adapted for particular articles or purposes, but not covered by any single one of main groups relating to investigating the properties, e.g. the weldability, of materials
21.
LONGITUDINAL AND CIRCUMFERENTIAL ULTRASOUND SCANNER
A scanning device is provided. The scanning device includes a frame having a first portion and a second portion pivotably coupled to the first frame portion. The scanning device also includes a couplant source disposed in the first frame portion along with a couplant assembly. The couplant assembly includes a first couplant line disposed completely within the first frame portion and the second frame portion. The couplant assembly also includes a second couplant line extending from the first couplant line and out of the second frame portion at a first end of the second couplant line. The couplant assembly has a couplant line branch extending from the second couplant line where a sensor assembly of the ultrasound scanning device couples with the couplant line branch at an end opposite the second end of the second couplant line.
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details providing acoustic coupling
Examples of the present subject matter provide techniques for compressive sampling of acoustic data. A probe may sample in a compression mode, such that the entire matrix is not sampled at full-time resolution or spatial resolution. Therefore, the initial amount of data captured by the probe is reduced, allowing for lower density hardware (e.g., fewer analog-to-digital conversion channels or related analog front-end hardware) to be used at a lower data rate.
Systems and methods are disclosed for conducting an ultrasonic-based inspection. The systems and methods perform operations comprising: receiving, by one or more processors, data indicative of a detected tag on a specimen, the tag associated with one or more ultrasonic-based inspections that were previously performed on the specimen; retrieving, by the one or more processors, based on the detected tag, configuration data for a non-destructive testing (NDT) instrument, the configuration data being associated with the one or more ultrasonic-based inspections that were previously performed on the specimen; generating, by the one or more processors, new configuration data for the NDT instrument to perform a new inspection of the specimen at least in part using the received configuration data; and performing the new inspection of the specimen based on spatially positioning the NDT instrument relative to a position of the tag on the specimen.
G01N 29/30 - Arrangements for calibrating or comparing, e.g. with standard objects
G01S 7/52 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
A phase-based approach can be used for one or more of acquisition, storage, or subsequent analysis, e.g., A-scan reconstruction or Total Focusing Method imaging, in support of acoustic inspection. For example, binarization or other quantization technique can be used to compress a data volume associated with time-series signal acquisition. A representation of phase information from the time-series signal can be generated, such as by processing the binarized or otherwise quantized time-series signal. Using the representation of the phase information, a phase summation technique can be used to perform one or more of A-scan reconstruction, such as for pulse-echo A-scan inspection, or a TFM imaging technique can be used, as illustrative examples. In such a phase summation approach, time-series representations of phase data can be summed, such as where each time-series can be delayed (or phase rotated) by an appropriate delay value and then aggregated.
An acoustic technique can be used for performing non-destructive testing. For example, a method for acoustic evaluation of a target can include generating respective acoustic transmission events via selected transmitting ones of a plurality of electroacoustic transducers, and in response to the respective acoustic transmission events, receiving respective acoustic echo signals using other receiving ones of the plurality of electroacoustic transducers, and coherently summing representations of the respective received acoustic echo signals to generate a pixel or voxel value corresponding to a specified spatial location of the target. Such summation can include weighting contributions from the respective representations to suppress contributions from acoustic propagation paths outside a specified angular range with respect to a surface on or within the target, such as to provide an acoustic path-filtered total focusing method (PF-TFM).
Example embodiments of the present subject matter relate to methods, systems, and a computer program product for performing assisted ultrasonic inspection flaw screening. The method includes analyzing a plurality of ultrasonic responses having scan axis and ultrasound axis positions. For a plurality of respective scan axis-ultrasound axis positions, an ultrasonic response representative of ultrasonic responses for the scan axis-ultrasound axis position is selected. The selected ultrasonic responses then may be associated for ultrasonic inspection flaw screening.
Systems and methods are disclosed for conducting an ultrasonic-based inspection. The systems and methods perform operations comprising: receiving a plurality of scan plan parameters associated with generating an image of at least one flaw within a specimen based on acoustic echo data obtained using full matrix capture (FMC); applying the plurality of scan plan parameters to an acoustic model, the acoustic model configured to determine a two-way pressure response of a plurality of inspection modes based on specular reflection and diffraction phenomena; generating, by the acoustic model based on the plurality of scan plan parameters, an acoustic region of influence (AROI) comprising an acoustic amplitude sensitivity map for a first inspection mode amongst the plurality of inspection modes; and generating, for display, a first image comprising the AROI associated with the first inspection mode for capturing or inspecting the image of the at least one flaw.
An eddy current object testing system includes an EC probe and an acquisition channel which is configured to receive an EC signal from the EC probe and to generate a visual output, namely an impedance plane representation, of the output. A display is coupled to the acquisition channel to display the visual output. The at least one probe is provided with a test loop substantially surrounding it and has a series switch which can be selectively closed or opened to thereby cause the image plane to assume a state that is indicative of a fault, if any, in the EC probe.
G01R 33/12 - Measuring magnetic properties of articles or specimens of solids or fluids
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
29.
Monitoring temperature variation in wedge of phased-array probe for weld inspection
A coupling wedge for use with a ultrasonic phased array inspection system has a body with a bottom side configured to face the object to be tested and a front side generally oriented at an angle to the bottom side and a top side to be coupled with a phased array probe. The probe includes a plurality of apertures. The front side of the wedge has grooves formed with a plurality of reflectors that are positioned on the front side of the wedge, leaving a distance from the bottom side. The change in TOF values from the reflector to a specific aperture enable the determination of the temperature change in the wedge. An alarm to an operator or alternation of focal laws in the system for temperature compensation can be applied.
G01N 29/26 - Arrangements for orientation or scanning
G01N 29/28 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object Details providing acoustic coupling
G01N 29/32 - Arrangements for suppressing undesired influences, e.g. temperature or pressure variations
30.
Apparatus for and a method of improved timing control for non-destructive testing and inspection
A pulse generation circuit and method includes using digital signals to trigger a first and second varying analog signals and detecting when they reach one or more reference levels. In response to the first and second varying analog signals reaching one or more reference levels, a first and a second digital control signals are produced and provided as input to a pulser producing a voltage excitation pulse having a width and timing defined by the first and second digital control signals.
H01L 41/04 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements
G01N 29/34 - Generating the ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
G01B 7/06 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring length, width, or thickness for measuring thickness
H01L 21/66 - Testing or measuring during manufacture or treatment
32.
Method of manipulating impedance plane with a multi-point touch on touch screen
A touch screen is disclosed which responds to a user's touch for re-drawing, re-scaling, re-translating and re-positioning an impedance plane signal received from non-destructive testing equipment, such as an eddy current sensor. The impedance plane is manipulated by slidingne, two or more fingers simultaneously to an end position to effectuate a complete re-drawing operation of the image.
G06F 3/045 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means using resistive elements, e.g. a single continuous surface or two parallel surfaces put in contact
33.
Method and instrument for identifying jewelry with plated element using x-ray florescence
The method uses an XRF instrument for identifying a specified element on a jewelry sample by illuminating its surface with excitation radiation and measuring first and second intensities of characteristic emission lines of a specified element and calculating the ratio between the intensities to establish a measured thickness and to determine based on a certain range criteria whether the sample can be considered to be plated jewelry.
G01N 23/223 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material by irradiating the sample with X-rays or gamma-rays and by measuring X-ray fluorescence
34.
Apparatus for and a method of improved timing control for non-destructive testing and inspection
A pulse generation circuit and method includes using digital signals to trigger a first and second varying analog signals and detecting when they reach one or more reference levels. In response to the first and second varying analog signals reaching one or more reference levels, a first and a second digital control signals are produced and provided as input to a pulser producing a voltage excitation pulse having a width and timing defined by the first and second digital control signals.
A phased array system and the inspection method which is configured to inspect the weld seam of an HSAW for all standard types of flaws located both near pipe's internal and external surfaces in one scan pass, diminishing the need of making mechanical adjustment for the probes during the one pass of scan. The configuration includes the usage of at least one linear PA probe for Lamination inspection right above HAZ zone, at least one pair of PA probes for longitudinal defects inspection and holes detection and at least two pairs of PA probes for transversal defect inspections.
The present invention relates to a method of detecting non-linear operation of a measuring device comprising an array of transducers and at least one receiver channel portion. The method comprises receiving measured signals through transducers of the array, processing the measured signals from the transducers through the receiver channel portion, combining the processed measured signals to produce a combined measurement signal, and detecting non-linearity of the combined measurement signal and non-linear operation of the measuring device by detecting saturation of the receiver channel portion. In one embodiment, the receiver channel portion comprises an analog-to-digital converter, a threshold is assigned to a digital output of the analog-to-digital converter, and saturation of the receiver channel portion is detected when the digital output of the analog-to-digital converter oversteps the assigned threshold. In one application of the invention, the measuring device is a non-destructive testing device.
The present invention relates to a method of detecting non-linear operation of a measuring device comprising an array of transducers and at least one receiver channel portion. The method comprises receiving measured signals through transducers of the array, processing the measured signals from the transducers through the receiver channel portion, combining the processed measured signals to produce a combined measurement signal, and detecting non-linearity of the combined measurement signal and non-linear operation of the measuring device by detecting saturation of the receiver channel portion. In one embodiment, the receiver channel portion comprises an analog-to-digital converter, a threshold is assigned to a digital output of the analog-to-digital converter, and saturation of the receiver channel portion is detected when the digital output of the analog-to-digital converter oversteps the assigned threshold. In one application of the invention, the measuring device is a non-destructive testing device.
An eddy current probe assembly suitable for inspecting a test object with longitudinal shape, being passed through the assembly in the object's axial direction during an inspection session, the probe assembly comprising multiple probe modules being disposed in a radial plane and with the modules partially overlaying on each other forming an iris structure encircling an inspection zone, wherein a movement in unison of each of the probe modules closer to or further away from the center of the inspection zone makes the inspection zone enlarged or contracted. Spring tension is applied on each of the probe modules so that constant life-off in maintained between the probe modules and the test surface. Array of eddy current elements for each probe module and multiple layers of probe modules can be employed to achieve complete coverage of the test surface. The radial cross-sectional shapes of the test objects can be of round or polygonal.
G01N 27/82 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws
G01N 27/72 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables
A method and system related to phased array ultrasonic systems identifies faults in individual element on a regular basis. The method and system are based on a simple approach of calculating energy levels in response signals from each individual element and then identifying any discontinuities or unexpected drops in energy levels sensed during a typical phased array operation, by comparing responses for individual transducer elements to the group response.
A method and apparatus for effecting ultrasonic flaw detection of an object processes an echo signal received from the object being tested in at least three signal channels, wherein the echo signal is scaled to different degrees along each channel to increase and extend the dynamic range of an associated A/D converter system, in a manner which dispenses with the need for using numerous analog high pass and low pass filters and a variable gain amplifier. This reduces complexity and avoids performance limitations. The digital to analog converters sample the differently scaled input signal and a selection circuit selects the output of the digital output obtained from that analog to digital converter which has the highest gain, but which has not overflowed. The digital outputs are seamlessly merged to produce an output that can be displayed as a scan display which shows the location of faults.
A user configured measurement display system and method for a non-destructive testing device and instrument (NDT/NDI) with high input data rate is disclosed. The system and the method provide the means for NDT/NDI instruments display measurement values that satisfies user designated measurement criterion occurring during any measurement time intervals (MTIs). The present disclosure overcomes the shortcomings of conventional ways of picking and displaying measurement values at fixed MTIs, by which the values truly satisfying the measurement criterion that occurs at random MTIs (other than scheduled MTIs) are often skipped.
G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof
G01N 11/00 - Investigating flow properties of materials, e.g. viscosity or plasticityAnalysing materials by determining flow properties
G01N 27/82 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws
G01N 29/06 - Visualisation of the interior, e.g. acoustic microscopy
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
42.
Portable environmentally robust enclosure optimized for size, weight, and power dissipation
An enclosed electronic apparatus including a first continuous heat-transfer band forming at least a portion of the exterior surface of the enclosure, with continuous lateral edges on either side thereof, and mounting points on an internal side of the continuous heat transfer band to which a printed circuit board assembly is mountable. A printed circuit board assembly is mounted to the heat transfer band at the mounting points, with a thermally conductive portion forming a thermal path between a heat-producing electronic component of the printed circuit board assembly and the heat transfer band. A thermally conductive gasket between the printed circuit board assembly and the heat transfer band at the mounting points facilitates heat transfer. Opposing first and second enclosure portions seal the respective continuous lateral edges of the heat transfer band against penetration of fluid or debris. It is small, compact, lightweight, rugged and otherwise ergonomic for ease of use and protection from accidental impact caused by, for example, dropping the unit. The reliability of the system is improved because the internal electronic components are protected from moisture, dust, and other liquid or particle contaminants, all while maintaining an internal temperature that is lower than a maximum permissible operating temperature.
An enhanced wireless eddy current probe is disclosed which has means to wirelessly couple to a non-destructive inspection (NDI) system situated some distance away from an inspection point on a material under inspection. The disclosed enhanced wireless eddy current probe provides means for executing advanced functions necessary for a complex eddy current inspection operation. These functions include, but are not limited to, storing, loading, and executing a predetermined firing sequence on an array of coil elements, probe balancing, probe calibration, and providing bibliographic information specific to said probe to a wirelessly coupled NDI system.
G01N 27/82 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws
44.
Intelligent eddy current array probe with embedded firing sequence memory
An intelligent eddy current array probe comprising a plurality of coil elements and an embedded non-volatile memory element is disclosed. Prior to coupling the intelligent eddy current array probe to an NDI system, a data table describing a desired firing sequence for the array probe within a given inspection operation is created. This data table is then stored within the embedded non-volatile memory element of the intelligent eddy current array probe such that when the array probe is coupled to the NDI system, the elements of the NDI system can load and execute the stored firing sequence without operator intervention. In this way, a plurality of intelligent eddy current array probes, each with its own firing sequence, can be used interchangeably within a single NDI system without the need for mechanical adjustments to the NDI system.
G01N 27/82 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws
45.
Balanced mechanical resonator for powder handling device
A system incorporating a balanced mechanical resonator and a method for vibration of a sample composed of granular material to generate motion of a powder sample inside the sample holder for obtaining improved analysis statistics, without imparting vibration to the sample holder support.
A method and apparatus for effecting ultrasonic flaw detection of an object processes an echo signal received from the object being tested in at least three signal channels, wherein the echo signal is scaled to different degrees along each channel to increase and extend the dynamic range of an associated A/D converter system, in a manner which dispenses with the need for using numerous analog high pass and low pass filters and a variable gain amplifier. This reduces complexity and avoids performance limitations. The digital to analog converters sample the differently scaled input signal and a selection circuit selects the output of the digital output obtained from that analog to digital converter which has the highest gain, but which has not overflowed. The digital outputs are seamlessly merged to produce an output that can be displayed as a scan display which shows the location of faults.
A peak visualization enhancement system for use with a non-destructive inspection (NDI) instrument using a digital display which replicates the haloing effect of analog cathode ray tube (CRT) displays. A peak detection algorithm is provided which intelligently selects the peak values from within the uncompressed digitized waveform while taking measures to prevent noise spikes and the like from being identified as valid waveform peaks. The digital display then highlights the identified peaks, or a subset of the identified peaks, on the compressed waveform display. In this way the effect of bright spots (halos) about the zero slope points on a waveform displayed on an analog CRT is replicated in a digitally compressed waveform display.
An ultrasonic inspection system utilizes a tunable digital filter with 4× interpolation. The system is used for scanning objects to be tested and includes a transmit/receive device to generate a test signal and receive an echo signal. A signal processing circuit processes the echo signal with one or more digital to analog converters for converting an analog version of the echo signal to a digital echo signal in the form of streaming digital data which is stored in a memory. The data is stored at a first data rate and read out at the second, slower data rate. An averaging decimator receives and processes the data from the memory and supplies it to an IIR filter and subsequently to an FIR filter and ultimately to a box car filter to effect processing thereon which increases the perceived resolution of the data by a given factor, preferably by a factor of 4.
A method and apparatus for effecting ultrasonic flaw detection of an object processes an echo signal received from the object being tested in at least three signal channels, wherein the echo signal is scaled to different degrees along each channel to increase and extend the dynamic range of an associated A/D converter system, in a manner which dispenses with the need for using numerous analog high pass and low pass filters and a variable gain amplifier. This reduces complexity and avoids performance limitations. The digital to analog converters sample the differently scaled input signal and a selection circuit selects the output of the digital output obtained from that analog to digital converter which has the highest gain, but which has not overflowed. The digital outputs are seamlessly merged to produce an output that can be displayed as a scan display which shows the location of faults.
A hand-held XRF analyzer including an x-ray source for emitting x-rays through a window to a sample. A detector behind the window is responsive to x-rays irradiated by the sample. A controlled volume about the x-ray source and the detector is maintained in a vacuum or a predetermined purge condition for a predetermined amount of time for increasing the sensitivity of the analyzer. A processor is responsive to the detector for analyzes the spectrum of irradiated x-rays and responsive to a pressure sensor for detecting a pressure change inside the controlled volume. The processor is configured to detect if the vacuum or the predetermined purge condition has been compromised.
G01N 23/223 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material by irradiating the sample with X-rays or gamma-rays and by measuring X-ray fluorescence
51.
Multiple mode digitization system for a non-destructive inspection instrument
A multiple mode digitization system for a non-destructive inspection instrument which makes use of a multiplexing circuit and a single set of analog to digital converters to efficiently digitize analog test signals from a plurality of inputs. In the preferred embodiment, each of the analog to digital converters in the system is driven with an independent and separate clock signal, allowing for propagation delay compensation among the plurality of test signals as well as interleaved sampling such that custom sampling rates can be used for each input without the need for more than one clock frequency. In an alternate embodiment, phase adjustments on the sampling clocks are used only for interleave sampling, and digital filters are used to provide signal propagation delay compensation.
A flexible array probe is disclosed suitable for use in the non-destructive testing and inspection of test pieces with varying cross-sectional geometries. Array elements—such as, but not limited to, eddy current sensors, piezoelectric sensor elements, and magnetic flux leakage sensors—are mounted on thin alignment fins and coupled together with pairs of pivot mechanisms along the axis of desired rotation. The pivot mechanisms allow rotation in exactly one dimension and force the flexible array probe to align its elements orthogonally to the surface of the structure under test. Alignment and coupling fixtures are also disclosed.
G01N 27/82 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws
G01N 27/90 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating magnetic variables for investigating the presence of flaws using eddy currents
53.
Method and algorithms for inspection of longitudinal defects in an eddy current inspection system
A collection of data processing algorithms which, used in concert, are suitable for use in place of a high pass filter stage in an eddy current inspection system and provide for a system optimized to inspect test pieces for elongated defects running parallel to the scan axis. The algorithms use mathematical techniques to eliminate baseline impedance offset between test pieces, correct for offset drift during a scan, and allow for system balancing using only a set of test pieces of unknown quality.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
An XRF system, preferably handheld, includes an X-ray source for directing X-rays to a sample, a detector responsive to X-rays emitted by the sample, and a filter assembly with multiple filter materials located between the X-ray source and the detector. An analyzer is responsive to detector and is configured to analyze the intensities of X-rays irradiated by the sample at one power setting and to choose a filter material which suppresses certain intensities with respect to other intensities. A device, controlled by the analyzer, automatically moves the filter assembly to the chosen filter material and then the analyzer increases the power setting to analyze certain non-suppressed intensities.
G01N 23/223 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material by irradiating the sample with X-rays or gamma-rays and by measuring X-ray fluorescence
An XRF system, preferably handheld, includes an X-ray source for directing X-rays to a sample, a detector responsive to X-rays emitted by the sample, and a filter assembly with multiple filter materials located between the X-ray source and the detector. An analyzer is responsive to detector and is configured to analyze the intensities of X-rays irradiated by the sample at one power setting and to choose a filter material which suppresses certain intensities with respect to other intensities. A device, controlled by the analyzer, automatically moves the filter assembly to the chosen filter material and then the analyzer increases the power setting to analyze certain non-suppressed intensities.
G01N 23/223 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material by irradiating the sample with X-rays or gamma-rays and by measuring X-ray fluorescence
G21K 4/00 - Conversion screens for the conversion of the spatial distribution of particles or ionising radiation into visible images, e.g. fluoroscopic screens
G21K 3/00 - Ionising radiation filters, e.g. X-ray filters
H05G 1/10 - Power supply arrangements for feeding the X-ray tube
A dual source tube XRF system and method wherein a first x-ray source is employed to direct x-rays in a first energy band at a sample and at least a second x-ray source is employed to direct x-rays in a second energy band at the sample. A detector is responsive to x-rays emitted by the sample after irradiation by the first and second x-ray sources. An analyzer is responsive to the detector and is configured to determine the amount of at least a first substance in the sample based on irradiation of the sample by the first x-ray source and to determine the amount of at least a second substance in the sample based on irradiation of the sample by the second x-ray source. A controller is responsive to the analyzer and is configured to energize the first and second x-ray sources either simultaneously or sequentially.
G01N 23/223 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material by irradiating the sample with X-rays or gamma-rays and by measuring X-ray fluorescence
A fuel analysis system and method wherein an x-ray source emits x-rays at an energy level below but proximate the absorption edge of sulfur. A monochromator is in the optical path between the source and a fuel sample for directing x-rays at a single energy level at the fuel sample to limit excitation of any sulfur in the fuel sample. A detector is responsive to x-rays emitted by the sample and an analyzer is responsive to the detector and configured to determine the amount of silicon and aluminum in the sample.
G01N 23/223 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of wave or particle radiation, e.g. X-rays or neutrons, not covered by groups , or by measuring secondary emission from the material by irradiating the sample with X-rays or gamma-rays and by measuring X-ray fluorescence
58.
Digital time variable gain circuit for non-destructive test instrument
In a non-destructive test instrument, there is provided a time variable gain (TVG) amplifier wherein the gain of the amplifier is dynamically changed to optimize the amplitude of a flaw echo signal. The TVG digital memory for a given TVG curve specifies and controls not only the start gain value, and the end game value, but the gain rate of change slope as well to generate TVG curve line segments.
An ultrasonic inspection system utilizes a tunable digital filter with 4× interpolation. The system is used for scanning objects to be tested and includes a transmit/receive device to generate a test signal and receive an echo signal. A signal processing circuit processes the echo signal with one or more analog to digital converters for converting an analog version of the echo signal to a digital echo signal in the form of streaming digital data which is stored in a memory. The data is stored at a first data rate and read out at the second, slower data rate. An averaging decimator receives and processes the data from the memory and supplies it to an IIR filter and subsequently to an FIR filter and ultimately to a box car filter to effect processing thereon which increases the perceived resolution of the data by a given factor, preferably by a factor of 4.
The present invention relates to a method of detecting non-linear operation of a measuring device comprising an array of transducers and at least one receiver channel portion. The method comprises receiving measured signals through transducers of the array, processing the measured signals from the transducers through the receiver channel portion, combining the processed measured signals to produce a combined measurement signal, and detecting non-linearity of the combined measurement signal and non-linear operation of the measuring device by detecting saturation of the receiver channel portion. In one embodiment, the receiver channel portion comprises an analog-to-digital converter, a threshold is assigned to a digital output of the analog-to-digital converter, and saturation of the receiver channel portion is detected when the digital output of the analog-to-digital converter oversteps the assigned threshold. In one application of the invention, the measuring device is a non-destructive testing device.
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