EP4107521A1

EP4107521A1 - Ultrasonic probe couplant monitoring

Info

Publication number: EP4107521A1
Application number: EP21757664.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Luca SCACCABAROZZI; Ulrich ROES
Original assignee: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
Current assignee: Baker Hughes Oilfield Operations LLC
Priority date: 2020-02-21
Filing date: 2021-02-11
Publication date: 2022-12-28
Also published as: WO2021167835A1; EP4107521A4

Abstract

Couplant monitoring ultrasonic testing system and methods for using the same are provided. A first ultrasonic signal can be generated by an ultrasonic probe and directed towards a target. A delay line can be acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic probe. The delay line and an ultrasonic coupling medium can be interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target. A second ultrasonic signal can be received by the ultrasonic probe. The second ultrasonic signal can represent a portion of the first ultrasonic signal reflected from an interface between the delay line and the target in which the ultrasonic coupling medium is positioned. An amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal can be compared to a predetermined amplitude threshold by a controller to determine a condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium. A notification representing the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium can be provided by the controller and based upon the comparison.

Description

ULTRASONIC PROBE COUPLANT MONITORING

BACKGROUND

[0001] In some instances, non-destructive testing (NDT) can include a class of analytical techniques that can be used to inspect characteristics of a target, without causing damage, to ensure that the inspected characteristics satisfy required specifications. For this reason, NDT can be used in a number of industries, such as aerospace, power generation, and oil and gas transport or refining. NDT can be useful in industries that employ structures that are not easily removed from their surroundings (e.g., pipes or welds) or where failures would be catastrophic.

[0002] NDT can include ultrasonic testing. Ultrasound can include acoustic (sound) energy in the form of waves that have an intensity (strength) which varies in time at a frequency above the human hearing range. In ultrasonic testing, one or more ultrasonic waves, referred to as an ultrasonic pulse or ultrasonic signal, can be generated by an ultrasonic probe and directed towards a target. As the ultrasonic pulse penetrates the target, one portion can reflect from features such as outer surfaces and interior defects (e.g., cracks, porosity, etc.), while another portion can be transmitted through these features. This propagated portion of the ultrasonic pulse can be further reflected from and/or transmitted through other features within the target.

The ultrasonic probe can acquire ultrasonic measurements (e.g., acoustic strength as a function of time) that can include these reflected ultrasonic waves, referred to as ultrasonic echoes or ultrasonic signals. Subsequently, measured ultrasonic echoes can be analyzed to determine target characteristics. As an example, the time at which ultrasonic echoes are received, and their amplitude, can be measured to determine a variety of target characteristics, such as target geometry and the presence and/or location of defects.

SUMMARY

[0003] In general, a feature can be considered as an interface between two media. As an example, an internal flaw or an external surface can be an interface between the target and air.

The amplitude of ultrasonic waves transmitted through and reflected from an interface can depend upon the amplitude of the ultrasonic wave incident upon the interface and a difference in acoustic impedance between the two media. [0004] Ultrasonic coupling can refer to the relative magnitude of the acoustic impedance difference, or mismatch, across the interface. When the acoustic impedance mismatch across the interface is small, acoustic coupling can be characterized as relatively high. Under this circumstance, the amplitude an ultrasonic pulse transmitted through the interface to the target can be a relatively large fraction of the amplitude of the incident ultrasonic pulse, and the amplitude of the ultrasonic echo reflected from the interface can be a relatively small fraction of the amplitude of the incident ultrasonic pulse. In contrast, when acoustic impedance mismatch across the interface is high, acoustic coupling can be characterized as relatively low. Under this circumstance, the amplitude of the ultrasonic pulse transmitted through the interface can be a relatively small fraction of the amplitude of the incident ultrasonic pulse, and the amplitude of the ultrasonic echo reflected from the interface can be a relatively large fraction of the amplitude of the incident ultrasonic pulse.

[0005] In general, air gaps can be present at the interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target and result in large acoustic impedance mismatch (poor ultrasonic coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target). Due to this acoustic impedance mismatch and pronounced attenuation in air, the amplitude of an ultrasonic wave transmitted through the interface (e.g., an ultrasonic pulse entering the target or an ultrasonic echo exiting the target) can be a relatively small fraction of its incident amplitude. Thus, poor ultrasonic coupling can significantly attenuate the amplitude of ultrasonic echoes exiting the target, making them difficult to detect and reducing the accuracy of flaw detection performed by ultrasonic testing.

[0006] Accordingly, it can be desirable to reduce acoustic impedance mismatch, and provide high acoustic coupling, at the interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target. Ultrasonic couplants have been developed to achieve this goal. An ultrasonic couplant, herein referred to as a coupling medium, can be a flowable material, such as a liquid, gel, or paste, that is positioned at the interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target. The ultrasonic couplant can displace air from the interface and bridge the space between the ultrasonic probe and the target.

However, the use of ultrasonic couplant at the ultrasonic probe-target interface may not guarantee satisfactory ultrasonic coupling (e.g., low acoustic impedance mismatch). In one aspect, flow characteristics of the ultrasonic couplant (e.g., viscosity, wetting, etc.) can be unsuitable for completely displacing air from the interface, resulting in the presence of voids that can reduce ultrasonic coupling at the interface, despite the presence of the ultrasonic couplant.

In another aspect, an ultrasonic couplant can fail to inhibit chemical attack (e.g., corrosion). Accordingly, it can be desirable to monitor the couplant to confirm that satisfactory ultrasonic coupling is present at the interface during ultrasonic testing and thereby ensure the accuracy of measurements acquired by an ultrasonic testing system.

[0007] While techniques have been developed for couplant monitoring, these techniques can have several drawbacks. In one example, ultrasonic coupling can be characterized by measuring the amplitude of an ultrasonic echo reflecting from the backwall of the target (e.g., a backwall echo). However, a backwall echo can be absent under some circumstances, for example, due to the target geometry (e.g., poor reflection of the backwall echo), attenuation of the incident ultrasonic pulse in the target, and/or attenuation of the backwall echo (e.g., the backwall can be too distant from the ultrasonic probe). Thus, for some targets, ultrasonic coupling cannot be characterized by backwall monitoring.

[0008] In general, systems and methods are provided for couplant monitoring in an ultrasonic testing system. The amplitude of ultrasonic echoes reflected from an interface including the couplant and an outer surface of the target are measured to determine the condition of the couplant. The condition of the couplant can be used to estimate whether acceptable or unacceptable acoustic coupling is present at the interface.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an operating environment including a ultrasonic testing system with couplant monitoring capabilities that includes an ultrasonic probe and controller;

[0011] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an ultrasonic probe including an ultrasonic transducer and a delay line; [0012] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an ultrasonic probe including an ultrasonic transducer and a delay line;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an ultrasonic probe including an ultrasonic transducer and a delay line;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an ultrasonic probe including an ultrasonic transducer and a delay line with satisfactory coupling between an ultrasonic probe and a target;

[0015] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an operating environment including unsatisfactory coupling between an ultrasonic probe and a target;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an operating environment including satisfactory coupling between an ultrasonic probe and a target;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an operating environment including an ultrasonic transducer and a wedge and unsatisfactory coupling between an ultrasonic probe and a target;

[0018] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a ultrasonic probe;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a C-Scan illustrating unsatisfactory coupling between an ultrasonic probe and a target;

[0020] FIG. 11 is a C-Scan illustrating unsatisfactory coupling;

[0021] FIG. 12 is a C-Scan illustrating satisfactory coupling; and

[0022] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method for coupling condition monitoring during ultrasonic testing.

[0023] It is noted that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Embodiments of ultrasonic sensing systems and corresponding methods for identifying the integrity of ultrasonic measurements in real time are discussed herein. However, embodiments of the disclosure can be employed to identifying the integrity of other measurements without limit.

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an operating environment including a ultrasonic testing system with couplant monitoring capabilities and a target. The ultrasonic testing system can include an ultrasonic probe and a controller.

[0026] The ultrasonic probe can include one or more ultrasonic transducers (not shown) positioned within a housing of the ultrasonic probe and configured to generate ultrasonic pulses (e.g., a first ultrasonic signal) at a selected angle and strength (e.g., ultrasonic amplitude) referred to as incident ultrasonic pulses. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer(s) can be configured to detect ultrasonic echoes reflected back to the ultrasonic transducer(s). For example, the ultrasonic transducer can detect ultrasonic echoes reflected from an interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target and reflected from features (e.g., interfaces) within the target, such as defects.

[0027] Ultrasonic echoes reflected from the target in response to an incident ultrasonic pulse can be received and measured by the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic probe can be positioned proximate to the target (e.g., in contact with or near to the target). Furthermore, the ultrasonic probe can be acoustically coupled to the target at an interface (e.g., the ultrasonic probe-target interface). The ultrasonic probe-target interface can include an outer surface of the target and a distal facing surface of the delay element. The target can be a part, material, medium, and/or the like. For example, the target can be a hollow axle. Other examples can include cylindrical parts (e.g. pipes, bars, disks), flat surfaces (e.g. plates, sheet), complex objects as forged valves, 3D printed objects, etc. [0028] The delay element can also be positioned within the housing of the ultrasonic probe, and can include, for example, a delay line and/or a wedge. Other examples can include flexible membrane or liquid filled chambers. Furthermore, the delay element can be configured to introduce a time delay between the generation of the incident ultrasonic pulses and the arrival of any reflected waves. For example, when no delay element is present, an ultrasonic echo from an ultrasonic probe-target interface can arrive at the ultrasonic probe before the ultrasonic probe finishes generating the incident ultrasonic pulse.

[0029] Additionally, the delay element can introduce the incident ultrasonic pulse at a variety of fixed and/or adjustable angles of incidence. For example, the delay element (e.g., delay line) can introduce the incident ultrasonic pulse approximately normal to the interface. In another example, the delay element (e.g., wedge) can introduce the incident ultrasonic pulse at a pre determined non-normal angle of incidence to the interface. For example, the delay element can introduce a refracted shear wave into the target. The incident ultrasonic pulse can reflect from an interface (e.g., ultrasonic probe-target interface external to the target, feature internal to the target, and/or the like) and can be received and/or measured by the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic probe can transmit the ultrasonic echo and/or ultrasonic echo measurements to the controller (e.g., as data, signals, and/or the like characterizing the ultrasonic echo measurements).

[0030] The controller can be in electronic communication with the ultrasonic probe, and can be configured to receive data from the ultrasonic probe. The data can include ultrasonic measurements of the target acquired by the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic measurements can include ultrasonic echoes corresponding to reflections of incident ultrasonic pulses generated by the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic echoes can be reflections from an ultrasonic probe-target interface and/or from features within a target, such as a defect, flaw, fault, and/or backwall.

[0031] The controller can be in electrical communication with a memory. The memory can be configured to store a coupling threshold. The coupling threshold can correspond to a predetermined amplitude of an ultrasonic echo. For example, the coupling threshold can include a predetermined amplitude value, frequency value, pressure value, and/or the like. The coupling threshold can be received by the controller from the memory. For example, the controller can be configured to receive a signal representing the coupling threshold from the memory. [0032] The controller can be configured to analyze an ultrasonic echo to determine the condition of the coupling medium. For example, the controller can be configured to identify a peak amplitude of an ultrasonic echo. The controller can be configured to compare the peak amplitude of the ultrasonic echo to the predetermined amplitude represented by the coupling threshold. For example, the peak amplitude of the ultrasonic echo can be greater than and/or equal to the predetermined amplitude represented by the coupling threshold, and ultrasonic coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target can be determined to be unsatisfactory. In another example, the peak amplitude of the ultrasonic echo can be less than the predetermined amplitude represented by the coupling threshold, and the coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target can be determined to be satisfactory.

[0033] The determination of unsatisfactory coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target can indicate poor, bad, and/or unsatisfactory couplant conditions in the interface interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target. For example, unsatisfactory couplant conditions can include air bubbles in the couplant at the ultrasonic probe-target interface and/or a lack of couplant at the interface. The determination of satisfactory coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target can indicate good and/or satisfactory couplant conditions in the ultrasonic probe- target interface. For example, satisfactory couplant conditions can include an ultrasonic probe- target interface fully filled with couplant.

[0034] The controller can be configured to output a notification signal (e.g., a first notification signal, a second notification signal, and/or a plurality of notification signals). For example, a notification signal (e.g., a first notification signal and/or a determination of unsatisfactory coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target) can be output when the peak amplitude of the ultrasonic echo (e.g., the first ultrasonic echo) is determined to be greater than and/or equal to the predetermined amplitude represented by the coupling threshold. In another example, a notification signal (e.g., a second notification signal and/or a determination of satisfactory coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target) can be output when the peak amplitude of the ultrasonic echo (e.g., the first ultrasonic echo) is determined to be less than the predetermined amplitude represented by the coupling threshold. [0035] The controller can be in electronic communication with a graphical user interface. The graphical user interface can be configured to display a notification representing the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium. For example, the graphical user interface can display a first notification corresponding to the first notification signal, a second notification corresponding to the second notification signal, and/or the like. In some cases, the graphical user interface can include graphical icons, visual indicators, and/or the like such that users can interact with some aspects of the current subject matter presented in a visual manner on a display, such as a computer monitor, a mobile device touch screen, and/or the like.

[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates transmitted incident ultrasonic pulses and reflected ultrasonic echoes in an operating environment including a delay line and a target. For example, the ultrasonic probe can generate an initial incident ultrasonic pulse (e.g., E_{in l}). The initial incident ultrasonic pulse can propagate through a delay line. The delay line can have a length D and an acoustic impedance Z_1. Couplant can be acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic probe at an interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target. The incident ultrasonic pulse generated by the ultrasonic probe can have energy E_{in l}, and that energy can propagate through the couplant to the target.

[0037] Two different mediums (e.g., ultrasonic probe including a delay line, wedge, and/or the like and target), with acoustic impedances Z and Z₂ respectively, can be coupled. The coefficient of transmission, T, and coefficient of reflection, G, of sound energy at the interface between the two mediums can be simplified under conditions of orthogonal incidence as the ratio of the acoustic impedances, as illustrated in equations (1) and (2) below.

(1)

(2)

[0038] Assuming no loses due to attenuation or the reduction in amplitude of the ultrasonic pulse as a function of distance through the imaging medium, and/or due to other phenomena, the law of conservation of energy can imply that the transmission coefficient and reflection coefficient sum to one, (e.g., G + T = 1).

[0039] The interface between an ultrasonic probe and a delay element can be an ideal transmission interface (e.g., small acoustic impedance mismatch across the ultrasonic probe- delay element interface), and the interface between the delay element and the target (e.g., ultrasonic probe-target interface) can be realized with a couplant. The couplant in the ultrasonic probe-target interface can be monitored, for example, to determine the quality of ultrasonic coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target. The amount of energy transmitted, or propagating, into the second material due to the initial incident ultrasonic pulse, E_{T 1}, can be calculated using the transmission coefficient, T, and the amount of energy reflected away from the second material, E_{R 1}, can be calculated using the reflection coefficient, G, as illustrated in equations (3) and (4) below. Since every wave that is transmitted and reflected can generate new transmitted and reflected waves, equations (3) and (4) can be extended with an infinite series.

For example, E_{T 2} can represent the backwall signal that can be used in backwall monitoring as a monitoring signal for the couplant conditions.

ET.X ⁼ Ein.iT (3)

E_{R, t} = E_{in l}r (4)

[0040] Frequently, however, the target can have a geometry that doesn’t provide an adequate backwall reflection. FIG. 3 illustrates transmitted and reflected waves in an operating environment including an ultrasonic probe, a target, and an ultrasonic probe-target interface where the target has a geometry that doesn’t provide an adequate backwall reflection. The ultrasonic probe can include an ultrasonic probe and a delay line with length D. The delay line and target can be in acoustic communication at an interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target. The interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target can include ultrasonic couplant. An incident ultrasonic pulse (e.g., E_{in l}) can be generated by the ultrasonic probe and transmit through the delay line. The couplant can facilitate transmission of a portion of the incident ultrasonic pulse (e.g., E_{T 1}). An ultrasonic echo (e.g., E_{R 1}, a first ultrasonic echo, and/or the like) can include a portion of the incident ultrasonic pulse reflected from the interface between the ultrasonic probe and the target.

[0041] Alternatively, the target can have a strong attenuation, and the energy transmitted through the ultrasonic probe-target interface and/or reflected from a backwall of the target can dissipate within the target. Under such circumstances, adequate an adequate backwall signal cannot be measured. FIG. 4 illustrates transmitted and reflected waves in an operating environment with strong attenuation. In either case, the amount of energy transmitted, E_{T 2}, as illustrated in FIG. 2, may not be available in order to realize couplant monitoring. However, a sufficient delay line length, D, can separate the initially transmitted pulse from the reflected energy. The interface signal, E_{R 1}, can then be available to make a couplant evaluation.

[0042] Under satisfactory, or proper, couplant conditions, energy can propagate through the interface into the target in addition to reflecting away from the interface. FIG. 5 illustrates such couplant conditions. In the accompanying plot of amplitude as a function of time, the ultrasonic echo corresponding to the initial incident ultrasonic pulse reflecting from the interface that can include the couplant (e.g. first ultrasonic echo) is indicated.

[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates improper couplant conditions. Couplant may not be entirely present between the transducer and the target (e.g., air bubbles). In the accompanying plot of amplitude as a function of time, the echo corresponding to the ultrasonic pulse reflecting from the interface that can include the couplant (e.g. first ultrasonic echo) is indicated by an arrow. Under such conditions, no energy may be transmitted through the material, (e.g., E_{T 1} = 0), and the energy can be reflected back in its entirety, (e.g., E_{R 1} = E_{in l}), which may result in a significantly stronger ultrasonic echo due to the reflection from the couplant.

[0044] The amount of energy reflected by at the interface interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target can be monitored, and the couplant conditions responsible for the ultrasonic echo can be identified. For example, the same signal used for inspecting a material can be used for evaluating the couplant conditions. This can eliminate the need for a dedicated probe, or dedicated settings, to monitor the couplant. In this way, the couplant conditions can be directly related to the inspection signals. [0045] The sound wave angle of incidence can be non-perpendicular to the interface, and mode conversion can occur. Equations (1) and (2) can be corrected to take in account the angles of incidence, reflection and refraction. Equations (3) and (4) can be adjusted to represent energy distribution between the different generated modes of propagation. Furthermore, the incident ultrasonic pulse can be significantly lower when the angle of incidence is non-perpendicular to the interface. The incident ultrasonic pulse may be amplified proximate to the initial pulse area and the signal amplitude can be increased. For example, angle beam inspection with a solid wedge (e.g., plexiglass) can induce a monitoring echo, and the monitoring echo can be monitored as an indicator of the couplant conditions. However, the monitoring echo can be one of a plurality of echoes resulting from internal reflections in the wedge. Satisfactory couplant conditions between the wedge and target can result in optimal energy transmission, and consequently, a lower indication coming from the wedge can arise. Conversely, the lack of couplant between the wedge and target can result in maximal energy reflection, and can result in a stronger reflection in the wedge, and corresponding indication.

[0046] As described above, a signal can be monitored. In both perpendicular and angle beam incidence, the amplitude of the monitored signal can be proportional to the size and/or area of the couplant, and can indicate that couplant may be missing. The maximum echo can be generated when couplant may be fully non-present (e.g., the area of the missing couplant is equal to and/or bigger than the size of the beam). An amount of energy can propagate into the target when some couplant may be present, and the echo amplitude can be smaller (e.g., when an equivalent area is smaller than the beam size).

[0047] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating one exemplary method 1300 for monitoring the integrity of couplant at an interface interposed between an ultrasonic probe and a target. As shown, the method 1300 can include operations 1310-1350.

[0048] In operation 1310, an ultrasonic signal, such as a first ultrasonic signal, can be generated by an ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic signal can be generated, for example, upon initiation of a procedure to monitor the condition of an ultrasonic coupling medium interposed between the ultrasonic probe and a target. [0049] In operation 1320, the generated first ultrasonic signal can be directed towards the target. As described above, a delay element, such as a delay line, can be acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic probe. The delay line and the ultrasonic coupling medium can be interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target. As described above, the first ultrasonic signal can be directed towards the target at varying angles. For example, in some cases the first ultrasonic signal can be directed towards the target at an angle substantially normal to the surface of the target. As another example, in some cases the first ultrasonic signal can be directed towards the target at an angle substantially non-normal to the surface of the target, such as 35°, 45°, 60°, 70° and/or the like.

[0050] In operation 1330, a second ultrasonic signal can be received by the ultrasonic probe.

The second ultrasonic signal can represent a portion of the first ultrasonic signal reflected from the interface between the delay line and the target in which the ultrasonic coupling medium is positioned. For example, the second ultrasonic signal can be received by the ultrasonic transducer.

[0051] In operation 1340, an amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal can be compared to a predetermined amplitude threshold by a controller. By comparing the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal to the predetermined amplitude threshold, the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium can be determined. For example, the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal can be greater than or equal to the predetermined amplitude threshold and the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium can be determined to be unsatisfactory. As another example, the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal can be less than the predetermined amplitude threshold and the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium can be determined to be satisfactory.

[0052] In operation 1350, a notification of representing the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium can be provided by the controller and based upon the comparison between the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal and the predetermined amplitude threshold. In some cases, the notification can be output by the controller and displayed via a graphical user interface. For example, the controller can output the notification including a first notification signal representing a first notification that the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium is unsatisfactory and the first notification can be displayed via the graphical user interface. Unsatisfactory coupling between the ultrasonic probe and the target can include a determination of unsatisfactory condition of couplant in the interface interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target. Furthermore, a determination of unsatisfactory coupling can indicate that couplant may be missing. As another example, the controller can output the notification including a second notification signal representing a second notification that the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium is satisfactory and the second notification can be displayed via the graphical user interface.

[0053] Exemplary technical effects of the methods, systems, and devices described herein include, by way of non-limiting example, improved monitoring of ultrasonic coupling using ultrasonic measurements received from a single ultrasonic pulse for flaw detection. Using a single ultrasonic pulse for flaw detection to monitor couplant condition instead of dedicated couplant condition monitoring probes and/or dedicated couplant condition monitoring settings can allow for efficient couplant condition monitoring. Real-time couplant condition monitoring can also be achieved, reducing or eliminating the need for dedicated couplant condition monitoring probes and/or dedicated couplant condition monitoring settings. After an ultrasonic measurement is received, it can be utilized to determine whether the condition of couplant, and/or ultrasonic coupling, is satisfactory or unsatisfactory.

[0054] Certain exemplary embodiments have been described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Further, in the present disclosure, like-named components of the embodiments generally have similar features, and thus within a particular embodiment each feature of each like-named component is not necessarily fully elaborated upon. [0055] The subject matter described herein can be implemented in analog electronic circuitry, digital electronic circuitry, and/or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structural means disclosed in this specification and structural equivalents thereof, or in combinations of them. The subject matter described herein can be implemented as one or more computer program products, such as one or more computer programs tangibly embodied in an information carrier (e.g., in a machine-readable storage device), or embodied in a propagated signal, for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus (e.g., a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple computers). A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data, in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0056] The processes and logic flows described in this specification, including the method steps of the subject matter described herein, can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions of the subject matter described herein by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus of the subject matter described herein can be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[0057] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processor of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. Information carriers suitable for embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices); magnetic disks, (e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks); magneto-optical disks; and optical disks (e.g., CD and DVD disks). The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0058] To provide for interaction with a user, the subject matter described herein can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, (e.g., a mouse or a trackball), by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well. For example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback), and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

[0059] The techniques described herein can be implemented using one or more modules. As used herein, the term “module” refers to computing software, firmware, hardware, and/or various combinations thereof. At a minimum, however, modules are not to be interpreted as software that is not implemented on hardware, firmware, or recorded on a non-transitory processor readable recordable storage medium (i.e., modules are not software per se). Indeed “module” is to be interpreted to always include at least some physical, non-transitory hardware such as a part of a processor or computer. Two different modules can share the same physical hardware (e.g., two different modules can use the same processor and network interface). The modules described herein can be combined, integrated, separated, and/or duplicated to support various applications. Also, a function described herein as being performed at a particular module can be performed at one or more other modules and/or by one or more other devices instead of or in addition to the function performed at the particular module. Further, the modules can be implemented across multiple devices and/or other components local or remote to one another. Additionally, the modules can be moved from one device and added to another device, and/or can be included in both devices. [0060] The subject matter described herein can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back-end component (e.g., a data server), a middleware component (e.g., an application server), or a front-end component (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described herein), or any combination of such back-end, middleware, and front-end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), e.g., the Internet. [0061] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

[0062] One skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, the present application is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. A method comprising: generating, by an ultrasonic probe, a first ultrasonic signal; directing the generated first ultrasonic signal towards a target, wherein a delay line acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic coupling medium are interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target; receiving, by the ultrasonic probe, a second ultrasonic signal, wherein the second ultrasonic signal represents a portion of the first ultrasonic signal reflected from an interface between the delay line and the target in which the ultrasonic coupling medium is positioned; comparing, by a controller, an amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal to a predetermined amplitude threshold to determine a condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium; and providing, by the controller and based upon the comparison, a notification representing the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining, by the controller, that the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal is greater than or equal to the predetermined amplitude threshold; outputting, by the controller, the notification including a first notification signal representing a first notification that the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium is unsatisfactory; and displaying, via a graphical user interface, the first notification.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining, by the controller, that the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal is less than the predetermined amplitude threshold; outputting, by the controller, the notification including a second notification signal representing a second notification that the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium is satisfactory; and displaying, via a graphical user interface, the second notification.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic probe includes an ultrasonic transducer.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the delay line includes a wedge.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the target includes a hollow axle.

7. A system, comprising: an ultrasonic probe configured to generate a first ultrasonic signal, direct the generated first ultrasonic signal towards a target, and receive a second ultrasonic signal; a delay line acoustically coupled to the ultrasonic probe, wherein the delay line and an ultrasonic coupling medium are interposed between the ultrasonic probe and the target; and a controller configured to compare an amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal to a predetermined amplitude threshold to determine a condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium and provide, based upon the comparison, a notification representing the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium; wherein the second ultrasonic signal represents a portion of the first ultrasonic signal reflected from an interface between the delay line and the target in which the ultrasonic coupling medium is positioned.

8. The system of claim 7, further comprising: a graphical user interface configured to display the notification representing the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal is greater than or equal to the predetermined amplitude threshold and output the notification including a first notification signal representing a first notification that the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium is unsatisfactory; and wherein the graphical user interface is configured to display the first notification.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the amplitude of the second ultrasonic signal is less than the predetermined amplitude threshold and output the notification including a second notification signal representing a second notification that the condition of the ultrasonic coupling medium is satisfactory; and wherein the graphical user interface is configured to display the second notification.

11. The system of claim 7, wherein the ultrasonic probe includes an ultrasonic transducer.

12. The system of claim 7, wherein the delay line includes a wedge.

13. The system of claim 7, wherein the target includes a hollow axle.