Non-destructive inspection apparatus having an ergonomic grip and associated method
US9057686B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jun 16, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 26, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/044
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A non-destructive inspection apparatus, system and associated method are provided to facilitate the inspection of a workpiece. The non-destructive inspection apparatus includes an ultrasonic sensor configured to be placed in operable contact with the workpiece. The ultrasonic sensor is configured to emit ultrasonic signals into the workpiece and to receive return signals from the workpiece. The non-destructive inspection apparatus also includes a grip operably connected to the ultrasonic sensor such that the grip and the ultrasonic sensor are movable in concert. The grip is configured to support an operator's palm, such as a majority of the operator's palm, such that force applied to the ultrasonic inspection apparatus by the operator is transferred via the grip to the ultrasonic sensor. The non-destructive inspection system may also include a computer in communication with the non-destructive inspection apparatus to receive information relating to the return signals received by the ultrasonic sensor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.