Forrest D Hopkins

US Patent:

47259639, Feb 16, 1988

Filed:

May 9, 1985

Appl. No.:

6/732301

Inventors:

Morris Taylor - Austin TX
Ira L. Morgan - Austin TX
Hunter D. Ellinger - Austin TX
Forrest F. Hopkins - Austin TX
Thomas Stephens - Leander TX

Assignee:

Scientific Measurement Systems I, Ltd. - Austin TX

International Classification:

G01N 2302
G01B 1506
G06F 1546

US Classification:

364507

Abstract:

An apparatus and method of non-contacting, non-destructive, on-line dimensional analysis and flaw detection of tubular products are disclosed. The apparatus includes penetrating radiation sources and detectors arranged about the product to be examined and a high-speed data processing system which employs novel computed tomography techniques to provide high precision dimensional estimates and flaw detection. The apparatus is capable of continuously determining the outside diameter, inside diameter, wall thickness, ovality, eccentricity, and weight-per-foot over a wide range of temperatures for essentially tubular products produced on a unit or continuous basis. The apparatus can also detect process-induced flaws in the products.