Active washers for monitoring bolted joints
US7698949B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 9, 2005 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 14, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/101
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting and monitoring bolted joints of metallic and composite structures for defects such as delamination and fatigue cracking are provided that incorporate ultrasonic transducers with load bearing washers. These active washers may be used for inspecting and monitoring a structure beneath such load bearing fasteners as bolts and nuts. Active washers may be used for continuous, periodic, and controlled inspections of bolted joints. Ultrasonic transducers may be permanently applied to a surface of a washer or recessed in a cavity on a surface of the washer. Inspection signals may be transmitted from ultrasonic transducers into a structure and reflected in pulse-echo application or received by another active washer on the opposing side of the structure in a through-transmission application.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.