Method and apparatus for inspecting a structure utilizing magnetically attracted probes
US6722202B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 16, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 16, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/106
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method for inspecting a structure are provided in which probes including respective sensing elements, such as ultrasonic transducers, are disposed proximate the opposed surfaces of a structure, but only one of the probes need be driven. In this regard, a tracking probe may be magnetically coupled to a driven probe and move in coordination therewith. The apparatus and method can therefore inspect structures in which one surface is inaccessible. The probes may permit liquid to be bubbled between the ultrasonic transducer and the structure in order to couple the ultrasonic signals. By utilizing a bubbled liquid as a couplant, the apparatus and method may operate in an ultrasonic array mode. Additionally, the probes may include at least one contact member, such as a plurality of wheels, for contacting the structure in order to maintain the desired orientation and spacing of the probes relative to the structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.