FR3081553A1 - METHOD FOR SECURING A METHOD OF DETECTION BY SPINNING OR MAGNETOSCOPY - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for securing a method for the detection by penetrant or magnetic particle of a matter discontinuity in an object (S), characterized in that: the method comprises a step of identifying the object (S); ) by installing a support (1) near said object, which support integrates a unique identifier readable remotely by a mobile reading terminal (3), - a reading of the unique identifier by the mobile reading terminal (3), is necessary to implement the detection method.

Description

METHOD FOR SECURING A DETECTION METHOD BY

DRYING OR MAGNETOSCOPY

Description

Technical field of the invention.

The subject of the invention is a method for securing a detection method by penetrant testing or magnetic particle testing.

It relates to the technical field of non-destructive testing methods for an object liable to exhibit discontinuities of matter, by means of a testing product, such as in particular PT and magnetic particle techniques. It relates more generally to the procedures for secure traceability of non-destructive controls.

State of the art.

PT makes it possible to detect the presence of a discontinuity (pores, microcracks, cracks, ...) and opening onto the surface of an object, for example a weld. PT is applicable regardless of the material of the object to be checked.

In a first step, we clean the surface of the object to be checked with a cleaning product, to remove pollutants (oil, grease, rust, oxidation, ...) that can clog the discontinuity.

A colored penetrating product is then applied to the cleaned surface. This product has a viscosity such that it penetrates by capillarity into the discontinuity to be detected.

-2The penetrant is left on the surface of the object for a period generally from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. It is a first waiting condition to ensure its good penetration in the discontinuity. At the end of this period, the surface is again cleaned to remove the penetrant which would not have actually entered the discontinuity.

A revealing product (powder, suspension or solution) is applied to the cleaned surface, for example talc functioning as a "blotter". By leaving the developer to act for a determined period of time (for example 20 minutes), the penetrant will come out of the discontinuity, and cause the appearance of spots revealing the presence of a discontinuity. The developer’s action time is a second waiting condition.

The spots, their position, their shape and their dimensions are recorded in a precise manner by a technician, generally by means of taking photographs recorded in a report. Several observations shifted in time allow the technician, depending on the shape and dimensions of the spots during successive observations, to determine with a certain degree of precision the shapes and dimensions of the different discontinuities thus detected and therefore to determine if they pose a risk and act accordingly.

After this series of observations, the traces of revealing product and penetrating product which have leaked out are removed by appropriate cleaning of the surface.

In an installation, certain surfaces to be checked, such as welds, are more difficult to access than others. It may therefore happen that a technician does not wish to check a difficult-to-access ‘A’ weld. In this case, he could perform a penetrant operation on a weld ‘B’ which is easier to access and indicate in his report that the photographs he took correspond to the penetrant operation on weld ‘A’.

In addition, it is possible that an ill-intentioned technician may not respect the waiting conditions mentioned above. For example, to save time, a technician can shorten the penetration and / or developer action time. In this

-3cases, discontinuities may not be detected and / or their consequences minimized.

Magnetoscopy is an alternative non-destructive testing technique that detects the presence of a discontinuity in an object (whether or not it emerges at the surface). This technique consists in creating a magnetic flux on the surface of a ferromagnetic material (iron, cast iron, steels, welds, sheets, ...).

As with PT, we start by cleaning the surface to be checked to remove pollutants.

A developer is then applied to the cleaned surface. This product is usually in the form of a liquid mixed with colored or fluorescent metallic particles.

The surface to be checked is then magnetized using a sufficiently high magnetic field. In the presence of a discontinuity, the lines of the magnetic field undergo a distortion which generates a “magnetic leakage field”, also called “magnetic flux leakage”, which, by attracting metallic particles, provides characteristic indications of the discontinuity . These indications are observed, photographed and recorded in a report drawn up by the technician.

For a ferromagnetic object to be checked, magnetoscopy is preferred to penetrant testing because it is faster. Indeed, the aforementioned waiting conditions are no longer necessary. However, there are still the drawbacks linked to the implementation of the method by an ill-intentioned technician who does not wish to control an object that is difficult to access.

The invention aims to remedy this state of affairs. In particular, an objective of the invention is to propose a process making it possible to trace and secure non-destructive checks, in particular to ensure that all the surfaces to be checked have been properly checked and that the operating protocols have been respected.

An additional objective of the invention is to automate the establishment of control reports as much as possible.

-4Disclosure of the invention.

The solution proposed by the invention is a method for securing a method of penetrant or magnetic particle detection of a discontinuity of material in an object. This process is remarkable in that:

- it includes a step consisting in identifying the object by installing a support near said object, which support includes a unique identifier readable remotely by a mobile reading terminal,

- a reading of the unique identifier by the mobile reading terminal is necessary to implement the detection method.

The full implementation of the detection method therefore requires at least a reading of the unique identifier. Without this reading, all or part of the steps of the detection method cannot be carried out. It is therefore certain that the detection method is well implemented at the right object. To use the above example, the technician who has to check a weld ‘A’ which is difficult to access, can no longer perform a penetrant operation on a weld ‘B’ which is easier to access. Each weld is now associated with its own unique identifier. A controller can easily see that the detection method was not carried out at the weld niveau A ’but at the weld‘ B ’.

Other advantageous characteristics of the process which is the subject of the invention are listed below. Each of these characteristics can be considered alone or in combination with the remarkable characteristics defined above and be the subject of one or more divisional patent applications, which remarkable characteristics are not necessarily essential as such for resolution. technical problems that the characteristics below propose to solve:

Advantageously, a reading of the unique identifier by the mobile reading terminal leads to the opening of a time window during which at least one photograph of the object is taken after and / or before the execution of a step of the detection method.

- The method may include a step of writing the unique identifier visibly to the naked eye on the support, and photographing the object so that the unique identifier visible to the naked eye on the support is visible in the photograph.

Advantageously, a photograph of the object, after the execution of a step of the detection method, is necessary to execute the next step of said method.

Advantageously, the photograph of the object is taken from the mobile reading terminal, which terminal incorporating a device for taking photographs.

- The process may include a step consisting in time stamping each photograph taken of the object.

Advantageously, a reading of the unique identifier, from the mobile reading terminal, after the execution of a step of the detection method, is necessary to execute the next step of said method.

- The method can include a step consisting in reading beforehand the unique identifier from the mobile reading terminal before executing the first step of the detection method, this prior reading causing the opening, on a graphic interface of said terminal, of '' a file to relate the progress of the stages of the detection method.

- The method may include steps consisting in: - associating, in a computer memory or a computer database, the unique identifier with additional information relating to the object; - interrogate the computer memory or the computer database following the prior reading of the unique identifier from the mobile reading terminal; - generate a pre-filled report in which are recorded the additional information contained in the computer memory or the computer database and which are associated with the identifier

- 6 only read; - open the file on the graphical interface of the mobile reading terminal, which file is in the form of the pre-filled report.

- The detection method can be a penetrant detection method comprising a step of cleaning a surface of the object and a step of applying a colored penetrating product to said cleaned surface, the method comprising the steps of: - taking a cleaned surface photograph of the object; - apply the penetrating product to the cleaned surface of the object; - take a first photograph of the cleaned surface of the object on which the penetrating product is applied; - take a second photograph of the cleaned surface of the object on which the penetrating product is applied, which second photograph is taken at the end of a determined period of time starting from the taking of the first photograph.

The detection method can be a penetrant detection method comprising a step consisting in applying a revealing product to a surface of the object, the method comprising the steps consisting in taking a first photograph of the surface of the object on which the developer is applied; take a second photograph of the surface of the object on which the revealing product is applied, which second photograph is taken at the end of a determined period of time counting from the taking of the first photograph.

- The method can include steps consisting in using a support in the form of a label, a necklace or a plate, and in writing the unique identifier in an RFID chip, in a barcode or in the form of a series of encrypted or encrypted characters adapted to be read by an optical character recognition device.

Description of the figures.

Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear better on reading the description of a preferred embodiment which will follow, with reference

-7 to the accompanying drawings, produced by way of indicative and non-limiting examples and in which:

- Figure 1 illustrates the installation of a support plate at a pipe weld,

FIG. 2 illustrates an arrangement of different elements of a computer server capable of being used in the invention,

- Figure 3 illustrates an arrangement of different elements of a mobile reading terminal,

FIG. 4 illustrates steps of a method for controlling a penetrant detection method,

FIG. 5 illustrates steps of another method for controlling a penetrant detection method,

FIG. 6 illustrates the steps of a method for monitoring a detection method by videoscopy,

- Figure 7 illustrates steps of another method of monitoring a magnetic particle detection method.

Preferred embodiments of the invention.

The following description refers to a technique of penetrant or magnetic particle detection of a discontinuity of material in a pipe weld. The invention is however applicable to the control of other types of objects such as welded assemblies, forge products, foundry products, mechanical parts, surgical prostheses, etc.

FIG. 1 illustrates a pipe T having a weld S to be checked. This weld S is identified by installing a support 1 near it. This support 1 can for example be fixed on the wall of the pipe T, within a radius of 1 cm to 20 cm from the weld S. The support 1 is advantageously in the form of a self-adhesive label stuck on the wall of the pipe T , rectangular, of a

-8 length of about 5 cm, and a width of about 4 cm. To avoid any fraud or falsification, the label can be unstuck, that is to say that it tears or crumbles if we try to peel it off.

It is also possible to use a plate, rigid or flexible, permanently fixed to the wall of the pipe T, for example by screwing or welding. It is also possible to use a support plate attached to the pipe T, at the level of the weld S to be checked, by means of a plastic or steel collar which is attached around the said pipe. This collar is preferably provided with a secure lock preventing its detachment from the pipe T. It is also possible to use a support 1 which is presented directly in the form of a collar (without plate).

The support 1 integrates a unique identifier readable remotely by a mobile reading terminal 3. In FIG. 1, this identifier is stored in the memory of an RFID chip 10. The latter is for example in the form of a circuit electronic bonded or embedded in the support 1, and comprising an antenna associated with an electronic chip allowing it to receive and respond to radio requests sent from the mobile reading terminal 3. The unique identifier can also be written in an NFC chip, in a barcode (1D barcode, QRCode, ...). The identifier can also be noted in the form of a series of encrypted (or encrypted) characters. The mobile reading terminal 3 then integrates an optical character recognition device (in English Optical Character Recognition or OCR) adapted to read the series of encrypted or encrypted characters and extract the identifier thereof.

The unique identifier entered in the RFID chip 10, preferably consists of a series of letters and / or numbers and / or symbols. By way of example, and to illustrate the present invention, the identifier “C231A226” is associated with the solder S. In FIG. 1, this identifier “C231A226” is also written visibly on the support with the naked eye. 1.

To facilitate the identification of a S weld in an installation, each weld is advantageously associated with geolocation information when it is made. For example, as soon as the welder has made the weld, he can record his position, and therefore that of the weld, by means of a touch pad, which pad integrates a geo-location program allowing for example to associate coordinates GPS with the identifier of the weld S. The RFID chip 10 can also be read by means of an RFID chip reader integrating a GPS module capable of recording GPS coordinates. When reading the chip 10, the GPS coordinates recorded are collected. It is then possible to associate these GPS coordinates with the unique number of the chip 10 and incidentally with the identifier of the weld S.

During the manufacture of the support 1, the unique identifier of the weld S is written in the memory of the RFID chip 10. This incrementation is carried out automatically using software of the type known to those skilled in the art. It is also possible to integrate into the support 1, and more particularly into the memory of the RFID chip 10, geo-location information associated with the weld S. It may for example be the aforementioned GPS coordinates. In this way, by scanning the RFID chip 10, an operator can check that he is properly installing the support 1 at the corresponding weld S.

The RFID chip memory 10 can also integrate additional information relating to the weld S such as: name of the installation, name of the welder, location of the weld, material of the weld, thickness of the weld, date of the last check. , etc.

This additional information is preferably recorded in a computer memory or a computer database, for example integrated in a remote computer server. The computer memory or the computer database integrates for example a table in which each identifier

- 10unique is associated with additional information relating to the weld (or object) concerned.

This computer server can consist of a physical server or, in certain cases, be made up of several distinct computers which communicate and interact on a network to carry out the functions described further on in the description. This server is preferably "remote" in the sense that it is not located in the room where the pipe T and the weld S are located, but outside of it.

Referring to FIG. 2, this computer server 4 comprises in particular one or more processors or microprocessors 40, one or more computer memories or computer databases 41, a network interface 42, which are mutually connected via a bus 43. One or several computer applications - or computer programs - are stored in the memory or memories 41 and whose instructions, when they are executed by the processor or processors 40 make it possible to carry out the functionalities described further on in the description.

The network interface 42 is a wired or wireless communication interface suitable for establishing communication with the mobile reading terminal 3. To secure the exchange of data between the mobile reading terminal 3 and the server 4, the connection between these two elements can be achieved through a virtual private network VPN, a secure internet network, or a wired link. It should be noted that the technical characteristics of household electrical appliances stored in memory 41 can be stored in database 5 (in addition to or in substitution for said memory).

The memory or database 41 can be hosted directly in the server 4, or in another server or in a server network such as Cloud Computing, or in a computer, or even directly in the mobile reading terminal 3.

- 11 The mobile reading terminal 3 (Figures 1 and 3) is in the form of an electronic terminal, for example a touchscreen electronic tablet (of the iPad®, Samsung GalaxyTab® type, etc.), operating with a system Windows, Mac, iOS, Android operating systems, or in the form of a mobile phone or smartphone (smartphone) such as iPhone®, Samsung Galaxy®, etc. The terminal 3 is adapted to be operated by a natural person, who, in practice, is the technician who implements the detection method by penetrant testing or magnetic particle testing.

Referring to FIG. 3, the mobile terminal 3 comprises in particular one or more processors or microprocessors 30, one or more memories 31, a network interface 32, a graphic interface 33, a reader 34 adapted to the nature of the unique identifier to be read (RFID chip reader, NFC chip reader, barcode or QR-Code scanner, etc.), a device for taking photographs 35, these elements being mutually connected via a common bus 36. A or several computer applications - or computer programs - are stored in the memory or memories 31 and whose instructions (or codes), when they are executed by the processor or processors 30 make it possible to carry out the functionalities described further on in the description.

The memory or memories 31 must be considered as a storage device also suitable for storing data and / or data files. It can be native memory or add-on memory such as a Secure Digital (SD) card.

The processor 30 and the memory 31 can be integrated into a SIM card (from the English Suscriber Identity Module), the latter being connected to the bus 36.

The network interface 32 is in particular suitable for establishing communication with the remote server 4. The network interface 32 can for example comprise a GSM module providing network connectivity to the mobile terminal 3. In general, the network interface 32 has for the function of managing the connections between the mobile terminal 3 and a telecommunications network via network technologies such as, but not limited to, GSM, EDGE, 2G, 3G, 4G, etc.

- 12 The graphical interface 33 offers the user the possibility of entering, selecting and / or entering data or instructions. It is for example in the form of a touch screen, a screen connected to a keyboard, etc.

The reader 34 is particularly suitable for receiving and transmitting signals for wireless communication with the support 1, and more particularly with the chip 10 (or the barcode or the QR-Code, etc.). These signals can be radio frequency signals using a Bluetooth, ISM, Wifi, ANT, ZIGBEE, etc. protocol. The reader can be directly integrated into terminal 3, or be connected to the latter in a wired or wireless manner.

The device 35 is for example a camera and / or a camera integrated in the mobile terminal 3. It is also possible to use a device remote from the mobile terminal 3, connected to the latter in a wired or wireless manner.

The user may be required to install one or more computer applications in his mobile terminal 3 to implement all or part of the invention from said terminal, and in particular the pairing procedure. These computer applications can be preinstalled on terminal 3. The user can however search for these computer applications from a dedicated website, and then download them to his terminal 3.

Different stages of a method for securing a penetrant detection method will now be described with reference to FIG. 4. In this embodiment, it is more a succession of readings of the unique identifier integrated in the support 1 which makes it possible to ensure that the operating protocol runs smoothly.

Preliminary phase

This preliminary phase is optional.

Step E1: the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the unique identifier integrated in the support 1 which is installed near the weld S. The terminal 3 reads, for example, the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10 (or the identifier written in the NFC chip, barcode, QR-Code, ...).

- 13Step E2: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

Step E3: the terminal 3 interrogates the memory or the database 41 by transferring to it the unique identifier read.

EV4 event: server 4 searches its table for additional information associated with the unique identifier received. This event EV4 can be carried out in the terminal 3 in the case where the memory or the database 41 is housed in said terminal.

Step E5: the server 4 transmits this additional information to the terminal 3.

EV6 event: terminal 3 generates a pre-filled report in which the additional information received is recorded (name of the installation, name of the welder, identification and location of the weld, material of the weld, thickness of the weld, date of last check, ...). This report opens on the graphical interface 33 of terminal 3 on which it is displayed. The technician may need to complete this report with other information such as his name, first name, position, date and time, etc. More generally, the prior reading of the identifier carried out in step E1, results in the opening, on the graphic interface 33 of the terminal 3, of a file (preferably the aforementioned pre-filled report) which will allow the technician to relate the progress of the stages of the penetrant detection method.

Execution of the steps of the penetrant detection method

The file opened on the graphical interface 33 of terminal 3 indicates in particular to the technician the instructions to follow for the progress of each step and makes it possible to relate the progress of the steps of the detection method.

EV7 event: terminal 3 automatically displays instructions on the graphical interface 33 to clean the surface of the weld S. The technician cleans this surface with a cleaning product, to remove the pollutants likely to clog the discontinuity.

Step 14 E8: after executing the cleaning step (event EV7), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This reading instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33.

Step E9: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV10 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the identifier from terminal 3 (steps E8 and E9), which automatically opens a time window during which the technician must take at least one photograph of the weld S cleaned. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a countdown, for example 5 seconds to 30 seconds, during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting. The duration of this time window is adjusted to be long enough for the technician to properly take the photograph, but too short for an ill-intentioned technician to have the time to take a photograph of another weld already cleaned. In addition, the support 1 being installed near the weld S, the identifier “C231A226” visibly written on the support 1 is also visible in the photograph. We are therefore certain that it is the correct weld that has been cleaned and photographed. To further trace the step of cleaning the weld S and / or to ensure that the photograph taken of the latter has not been falsified, said photograph is advantageously time-stamped, by the device 35 or by the terminal 3. The photograph is automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV11 event: the technician applies the colored penetrating product to the cleaned surface of the weld S. This instruction appears on the graphic interface 33. The technician is not authorized to apply the penetrating product if he has not previously photographed the cleaned surface of the weld S (event EV10). In other words, taking a photograph of the cleaned surface of the S-weld is necessary (this is the trigger) to apply the penetrating product. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for applying the penetrating product, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been

- 15 respected. In an alternative embodiment, it is a new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10 after the EV10 event which is the triggering element authorizing the application of the penetrating product.

Step E12: after applying the penetrating product (event EV11), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This reading instruction appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to apply the penetrating product (event EV11).

Step E13: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV14 event: the technician takes a first photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S on which the penetrating product is applied. This first photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from the terminal 3. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the identifier from the terminal 3 (steps E12 and E13) which causes the automatic opening of a time window during which the technician must take this first photograph. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a countdown, for example between 4 seconds and 30 seconds, during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting.

EV15 event: the technician takes a second photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S on which the penetrating product is applied. This second photograph is taken at the end of a determined period of time counting from the taking of the first photograph (event EV14). Advantageously, it is the taking of the first photograph which causes a countdown, for example between 5 minutes and 20 minutes, during which the camera 35 is blocked so that the technician cannot take this second photograph. In an alternative embodiment, this count runs from a new reading of the identifier on the support 1 after the EV14 event. This ensures good penetration of the product penetrating into a possible discontinuity in the weld S (first waiting condition mentioned in the preamble). At the end of this count, the graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count for

- 16which camera 35 must be activated for taking the second photograph. This second photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

Step E16: after taking the second photograph (event EV15), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This reading instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example as soon as it is taken of the second photograph (event EV15).

Step E17: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

Event EV18: the technician cleans the surface of the weld S in order to remove the penetrant which would not have actually entered the discontinuity. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33 following the reading of the identifier in steps E16 and E17. This reading of the identifier in steps E16 and E17 is necessary to execute the cleaning phase. Without this reading, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the surface of weld S, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed.

Step E19: after performing the cleaning step (event EV18), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33, for example in at the same time as the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S (event EV18).

Step E20: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV21 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the identifier unique from terminal 3 (steps E19 and E20) which automatically opens a time window during which the technician must take a photograph of the cleaned weld S. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. She is

- 17 also time stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV22 event: the technician applies the developer product to the cleaned surface of the weld S. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33. Preferably, the technician is not authorized to apply the developer product if he has not previously photographed the cleaned surface of weld S (event EV18). In other words, taking a photograph of the cleaned surface of the S-weld is necessary (this is the trigger) to apply the developer. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for applying the revealing product, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed. In an alternative embodiment, it is a new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10 after the EV21 event which is the triggering element for applying the penetrating product.

Step E23: after applying the revealing product (event EV22), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to apply the developer (event EV22).

Step E24: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV25 event: the technician takes a first photograph of the surface of the weld S to which the revealing product is applied. This first photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from the terminal 3. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the unique identifier from the terminal 3 (steps E23 and E24) which results in the automatic opening of a time window during which the technician must take this first photograph. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting.

EV26 event: the technician takes a second photograph of the surface of the weld S to which the revealing product is applied. This second

- 18photography is taken at the end of a fixed period of time starting from the taking of the first photograph (event EV25). Advantageously, it is the taking of the first photograph which causes a countdown, for example of 20 minutes, during which the camera 35 is blocked so that the technician cannot take this second photograph. In an alternative embodiment, this count runs from a new reading of the identifier on the support 1 after the EV25 event. This ensures that the penetrant will come out of the discontinuity and cause the appearance of spots revealing the presence of a discontinuity (second waiting condition mentioned in the preamble). At the end of this count, the graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for taking the second photograph. This second photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

Step E27: after taking the second photograph (event EV26), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This reading instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example as soon as it is taken of the second photograph (event EV26).

Step E28: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV29 event: the technician cleans the surface of the weld S in order to remove traces of revealing product and penetrating product that has evolved. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33 after reading the identifier in steps E27 and E28. This reading of the identifier in steps E27 and E28 is necessary to execute the cleaning phase. Without this reading, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the surface of weld S, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed.

Step E30: after executing the cleaning step (event EV29), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33 for example at the same time time for the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S (event EV29).

- 19 Step E31: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV32 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the identifier unique from terminal 3 (steps E30 and E31) which automatically opens a time window during which the technician must take a photograph of the cleaned weld S. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226 is also on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

Step E33: the terminal 3 transmits to the server 4 the file or report in which the progress of each step of the penetrant detection method is reported, with the various photographs taken. This transmission can be initiated automatically after taking the photograph of the cleaned surface (event EV32), or following a new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10, or be initiated by the technician after pressing a dedicated button on terminal 3.

FIG. 5 illustrates a variant of the method for securing a penetrant detection method. In this embodiment, it is more a succession of photographs taken of the weld S which makes it possible to ensure the good progress of the operating protocol.

Preliminary phase

This optional preliminary phase is identical to that described previously with reference to FIG. 4.

Execution of the steps of the penetrant detection method

-20Step E70: the technician uses terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33 after opening the file (event E6).

Step E80: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV90 event: The technician takes a photograph of the surface of the weld S before cleaning. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33, after reading the identifier in steps E70 and E80. This reading automatically opens a time window during which the technician must take at least one photograph of the weld S. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a countdown, for example between 4 seconds and 30 seconds during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is on the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV100 event: terminal 3 automatically displays on the graphic interface 33 instructions for cleaning the surface of the weld S, for example when the photograph is taken (event EV90). The technician cleans this surface with a cleaning product, to remove the pollutants likely to clog the discontinuity. The technician is not authorized to clean the weld if he has not previously photographed its surface before cleaning (event EV90). In other words, taking a photograph of the raw surface of the weld S is necessary (this is the trigger) to clean it. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the S weld, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed.

EV110 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of weld S to which the penetrating product is applied. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example in

-21 at the same time as the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S (event EV100).

EV120 event: the technician applies the colored penetrating product to the cleaned surface of the weld S. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33. Preferably, the technician is not authorized to apply the penetrating product if he has not previously photographed the cleaned surface of the weld S (event EV110). In other words, taking a photograph of the cleaned surface of the S-weld is necessary (this is the trigger) to apply the penetrating product. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for applying the penetrating product, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed.

EV130 event: the technician takes a first photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S on which the penetrating product is applied. This instruction for taking the first photograph preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction for applying the penetrating product (event EV120). This first photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV140 event: the technician takes a second photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S on which the penetrating product is applied. This second photograph is taken at the end of a determined period of time counting from the taking of the first photograph (event EV130). It is the taking of the first photograph which causes a countdown, for example of 5 minutes to 20 minutes, during which the camera 35 is blocked so that the technician cannot take this second photograph. At the end of this count, the graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for taking the second photograph. This second photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

-22Event EV150: the technician cleans the surface of the weld S in order to remove the penetrant which would not have actually entered the discontinuity. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33 following the taking of the second photograph (event EV140). We can consider that this photo taking is necessary to carry out the cleaning phase. Without this second photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the surface of weld S, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed.

EV160 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S ( EV150 event). This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV170 event: the technician applies the developer product to the cleaned surface of the weld S. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33. Preferably, the technician is not authorized to apply the developer product if he has not previously photographed the cleaned surface of weld S (event EV160). In other words, taking a photograph of the cleaned surface of the S-weld is necessary (this is the trigger) to apply the developer. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for applying the revealing product, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed.

EV180 event: the technician takes a first photograph of the surface of the weld S to which the revealing product is applied. This instruction for taking the first photograph preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction for applying the revealing product (event EV170). This first photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

-23Event EV190: the technician takes a second photograph of the surface of the weld S to which the developer product is applied. This second photograph is taken at the end of a fixed period of time counting from the taking of the first photograph (event EV25). It is the taking of the first photograph which causes a countdown, for example of 20 minutes, during which the camera 35 is blocked so that the technician cannot take this second photograph. At the end of this count, the graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for taking the second photograph. This second photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV200 event: the technician cleans the surface of the weld S in order to remove traces of revealing product and penetrating product which has evolved. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33 following the taking of the second photograph (event EV190). We can consider that this photo taking is necessary to carry out the cleaning phase. Without this second photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the surface of weld S, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed.

EV210 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S ( EV200 event). This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

Step E220: the terminal 3 transmits to the server 4 the file or report in which the progress of each step of the penetrant detection method is reported, with the various photographs taken. This transmission can be initiated automatically after taking a photograph of the cleaned surface (event EV210), or following a new reading of the identifier entered in the chip

-24RFID 10, or be initiated by the technician after pressing a dedicated key on terminal 3.

Different steps of a method for securing a magnetic particle detection method will now be described with reference to FIG. 6. In this embodiment, it is more a succession of readings of the unique identifier integrated in the support 1 which makes it possible to ensure that the operating protocol runs smoothly.

Preliminary phase

This optional preliminary phase is identical to that described previously with reference to FIG. 4.

Execution of the steps of the magnetic detection method

The file opened on the graphical interface 33 of terminal 3 indicates in particular to the technician the instructions to follow for the progress of each step and makes it possible to relate the progress of the steps of the detection method.

EV700 event: terminal 3 automatically displays on the graphical interface 33 instructions for cleaning the surface of the weld S. The technician cleans this surface with a cleaning product, to remove the pollutants.

Step E800: after executing the cleaning step (event EV700), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This reading instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33.

Step E900: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV1000 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the identifier from terminal 3 (steps E800 and E900) which automatically opens a time window during which the technician must take at least one photograph of the cleaned weld S. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a count during which

-25Camera 35 must be activated for shooting. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV1100 event: the technician applies the revealing product to the cleaned surface of weld S, this product containing colored or fluorescent metallic particles. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33. The technician is not authorized to apply the revealing product if he has not previously photographed the cleaned surface of weld S (event EV1000). In other words, taking a photograph of the cleaned surface of the S-weld is necessary (this is the trigger) to apply the developer. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for applying the revealing product, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed. In an alternative embodiment, it is a new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10 after the EV1000 event which is the trigger element for applying the revealing product.

EV1200 event: the technician magnetizes the S weld using a magnetic field high enough to generate a "magnetic leakage field" capable of providing characteristic indications of the discontinuity. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33. A new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10 after the EV1100 event may be the triggering element authorizing the magnetization of the S weld.

Step E1300: after magnetizing the weld S (event EV1200), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to magnetize the weld S (event EV1200).

Step E1400: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV1500 event: the technician takes at least one photograph of the weld S after magnetization and on which appears or not a “magnetic leakage field”. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention,

-26 is the reading of the identifier in steps E1300 and E1400 which results in the automatic opening of a time window during which the technician must take a photograph of the weld S after magnetization. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3. Several photographs can be taken so that the entire controlled surface is photographed

Step E1600: after taking the photograph (event EV1500), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This reading instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example when taking the photography (event EV1500).

Step E1700: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV1800 event: the technician cleans the surface of the weld S in order to remove the revealing product. This instruction appears on the graphic interface 33 following the reading of the identifier in steps E1600 and E1700. This reading of the identifier in steps E1600 and E1700 is necessary to execute the cleaning phase. Without this reading, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the surface of weld S, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed.

Step E1900: after executing the cleaning step (event EV1800), the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33 for example at the same time time for the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S (event EV1800).

Step E2000: the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV2100 event: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphical interface 33. According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, it is the reading of the identifier in steps E1900 and E2000 which involves

-27the automatic opening of a time window during which the technician must take a photograph of the cleaned S-weld. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a new count during which the camera 35 must be activated for shooting. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226 is visible in said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

Step E2200: the terminal 3 transmits to the server 4 the file or report in which the progress of each step of the detection method by penetrant is reported, with the various photographs taken. This transmission can be initiated automatically after taking the photograph of the cleaned surface (event EV2100), or following a new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10, or be initiated by the technician after pressing a dedicated button on terminal 3.

FIG. 7 illustrates a variant of the method for securing a detection method by videoscopy. In this embodiment, it is more a succession of photographs taken of the weld S which makes it possible to ensure the good progress of the operating protocol.

Preliminary phase

This optional preliminary phase is identical to that described previously with reference to FIG. 4.

Execution of the steps of the magnetic detection method

Step E700 ’: the technician uses the terminal 3 to read the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10. This read instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33 after opening the file (event E6).

Step E800 ': the RFID chip 10 returns the unique identifier to terminal 3.

EV900 event ’: The technician takes a photograph of the surface of weld S before cleaning. This photography instruction appears

-28 preferably on the graphical interface 33, after reading the identifier in steps E700 ’and E800’. This reading results in the automatic opening of a time window during which the technician must take at least one photograph of the weld S. The graphical interface 33 automatically displays a count during which the camera 35 must be activated for taking the view. This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV1000 event ’: terminal 3 automatically displays on the graphic interface 33 instructions for cleaning the surface of the weld S, for example when the photograph is taken (event EV900’). The technician cleans this surface with a cleaning product, to remove the pollutants. The technician is not authorized to clean the weld if he has not previously photographed its surface before cleaning (event EV900 ’). In other words, taking a photograph of the raw surface of the weld S is necessary (this is the trigger) to clean it. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for cleaning the S weld, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed.

EV1100 event ’: the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of weld S. This photograph is taken so that the identifier" C231A226 "is visible on said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to clean the surface of the weld S (EV1000 'event).

Event EV1200 ': the technician applies the revealing product to the cleaned surface of the weld S. This instruction appears on the graphic interface 33. The technician is not authorized to apply the revealing product if he has not previously photographed the cleaned surface of the weld S (event EV1100 '). In other words, taking a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S is necessary (this is the trigger) to apply the product

-29révélateur. Without this photograph, terminal 3 does not display the instructions for applying the revealing product, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not followed.

EV1300 event ’: the technician takes a photograph of the surface of weld S to which the developer is applied. This instruction for taking the photograph preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction for applying the revealing product (event EV1200 ’). This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV1400 event ’: the technician magnetizes the S weld using a magnetic field high enough to generate a“ magnetic leakage field ”capable of providing characteristic indications of the discontinuity. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33. Preferably, the technician is not authorized to magnetize the weld S if he has not previously photographed the weld S (event EV1300 ’). In other words, taking a photograph of the surface of the solder S to which the developer is applied is necessary (this is the triggering element) to magnetize the solder S. Without this photograph, the terminal 3 does not display not the instructions to magnetize the welding S, and the file or report will mention that the operating protocol was not respected.

EV1500 event ’: the technician takes a photograph of the S weld after magnetization and on which a“ magnetic leakage field ”appears or not. This instruction for taking a photograph preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction for magnetizing the weld S (event EV1400 ’). This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226" is visible in the photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

EV1600 event ’: the technician cleans the surface of the weld S in order to remove the revealing product. This instruction appears on the graphical interface 33 following the taking of the photograph at the EV1500 event. This photo is required to perform the cleaning phase. Without this photograph, the terminal does not display the instructions for cleaning the surface of the S weld, and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed.

Event EV1700 ': the technician takes a photograph of the cleaned surface of the weld S. This photographing instruction preferably appears on the graphic interface 33, for example at the same time as the instruction to clean the weld S (event EV1600 '). This photograph is taken so that the identifier "C231A226 is visible in said photograph. It is also time-stamped and automatically inserted into the file or report opened from terminal 3.

Step E1800 ’: the terminal 3 transmits to the server 4 the file or report in which the progress of each step of the penetrant detection method is reported, with the different photographs taken. This transmission can be initiated automatically after taking a photograph of the cleaned surface (event EV1700 '), or following a new reading of the identifier entered in the RFID chip 10, or be initiated by the technician after pressing a dedicated button on terminal 3.

The arrangement of the various elements and / or means and / or stages of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications can be made to these elements and / or means and / or stages, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In particular :

- Steps described with reference to Figure 4 and steps described with reference to Figure 5 can be combined with each other. Likewise, steps described with reference to FIG. 6 and steps described with reference to FIG. 7 can be combined with one another.

- The different stages of the process can be carried out in parallel. Indeed, the operator can implement process steps on a first weld and, in parallel, implement process steps on another weld. For example, an operator may decide to clean the surface of all welds to

- 31 check, then photograph all of these cleaned surfaces, then apply the penetrating or revealing product to each of these surfaces, etc. Similarly, during the waiting times imposed between two stages (eg EV14 and EV15) implemented on a weld, the operator can implement one or more other steps on another weld.

- The different photographs taken can be automatically digitally signed. It is thus ensured that the photographs have been properly processed by the mobile reading terminal 3 and / or by the software allowing the implementation of the process, without the possibility of falsification.

- Each container of product used (cleaning, penetrating, revealing, ...) is advantageously provided with an identifier readable remotely by the terminal 3. This identifier is preferably an RFID chip (or a barcode, ...) integrating in its memory the nature of the product, its pre-emption date, its batch number, its instructions for use, its exposure time, etc. This identifier can be read before each use of the product. When the terminal 3 reads this identifier, it can automatically determine the associated exposure time. For example, reading the RFID chip of the product entering event EV11 automatically calculates the count at event EV15 during which the camera 35 is blocked. Also, if at event EV11, the operator reads the identifier of a revealing product, terminal 3 can tell him that it is not the right product and that a penetrating product should be used. If the identifier of a penetrating product is not read then, terminal 3 blocks the procedure and the file or report will state that the operating protocol has not been followed. The same applies if the pre-emption date of the product whose identifier is read has passed.

- The process described in the previous paragraph can be applied to all the tools used for the implementation of the detection method. Thus, lamps used to illuminate the photographed surfaces and / or the magnetization device used to generate the "magnetic leakage field", can also be provided with an identifier. This identifier is preferably an RFID chip (or a barcode, ...) integrating, for example in its memory: the model of the tool, its serial number, its date of last revision, etc. So, at the end of the phase

- 32 beforehand, for example, after the EV6 event, the operator can read the tool identifier so that the information it contains is automatically mentioned in the file or report.

Claims (12)

claims 1. Method for securing a method of detection by penetrant testing or magnetoscopy of a discontinuity of material in an object (S), characterized by the fact that: - the method comprising a step consisting in identifying the object (S) by installing a support (1) near said object, which support includes a unique identifier readable remotely by a mobile reading terminal (3), - a reading of the unique identifier by the mobile reading terminal (3) is necessary to implement the detection method. 2. Method according to claim 1, in which a reading of the unique identifier by the mobile reading terminal (3) leads to the opening of a time window during which at least one photograph of the object is taken (S) after and / or before the execution of a step of the detection method. 3. Method according to claim 2, consisting of writing the unique identifier visibly with the naked eye on the support (1), and photographing the object (S) so that the unique identifier registered visible to the naked eye on the support (1) is visible in the photograph. 4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which a photograph of the object (S), after the execution of a step of the detection method, is necessary to execute the next step of said method . 5. Method according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the taking of the photograph of the object (S) is carried out from the mobile reading terminal (3), which terminal incorporates an apparatus (35) for taking of photographs. 6. Method according to one of claims 2 to 5, comprising a step of time stamping each photograph taken of the object (S). 7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which a reading of the unique identifier, from the mobile reading terminal (3), after the execution of a step of the detection method, is necessary for execute the next step of said method. 8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a step of reading beforehand the unique identifier from the mobile reading terminal (3) before executing the first step of the detection method, this prior reading causing the opening, on a graphical interface (33) of said terminal, of a file to relate the progress of the stages of the detection method. 9. Method according to claim 8, comprising steps consisting in: - associate, in a computer memory (41) or a computer database, the unique identifier with additional information relating to the object (S), - query the computer memory or the computer database (41) following the prior reading of the unique identifier from the mobile reading terminal (3), - generate a pre-filled report in which are recorded the additional information contained in the computer memory or the computer database (41) and which is associated with the unique identifier read, - open the file on the graphical interface (33) of the mobile reading terminal (3), which file is in the form of the pre-filled report. 10. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the detection method is a penetrant detection method comprising a step consisting in cleaning a surface of the object (S) and a step consisting in Applying a colored penetrating product to said cleaned surface, the method comprising the steps consisting in: - take a photograph of the cleaned surface of the object (S), - apply the penetrating product to the cleaned surface of the object (S), - take a first photograph of the cleaned surface of the object (S) on which the penetrating product is applied, - take a second photograph of the cleaned surface of the object (S) to which the penetrating product is applied, which second photograph is taken at the end of a determined period of time starting from the taking of the first photograph. 11. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the detection method is a penetrant detection method comprising a step consisting in applying a revealing product to a surface of the object (S), the method comprising the steps consisting at : - take a first photograph of the surface of the object (S) on which the revealing product is applied, - take a second photograph of the surface of the object (S) on which the revealing product is applied, which second photograph is taken at the end of a determined period of time starting from the taking of the first photograph. 12. Method according to one of the preceding claims, consisting in using a support (1) in the form of a label, a collar or a plate, and in writing the unique identifier in an RFID chip. (10), in a barcode or in the form of a series of encrypted or encrypted characters adapted to be read by an optical character recognition device.