Patent Description:
In welding, portions of two or more members are joined to each other by melting. The welded members are inspected for whether or not the welded portion (hereinbelow, called the weld portion) is joined appropriately. For example, in a non-destructive inspection, a human (an inspector) that grips a probe causes the probe to contact the weld portion. An ultrasonic wave is transmitted from the probe toward the weld portion, and an inspection device verifies the existence or absence of the joint based on the reflected wave.

In the inspection, the tilt of the probe with respect to the weld portion affects the inspection result. Therefore, when inspecting, it is desirable for the inspector to be able to easily ascertain information relating to the inspection such as the tilt of the probe with respect to the weld portion, how the tilt should be changed, etc..

Document <CIT> relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for notifying an operator of the posture angle of an ultrasound probe with respect to an examination part of a subject.

Document <CIT> relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for use in medical care.

Document <CIT> relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for presenting a degree of deviation with respect to an optimum state of an ultrasonic probe.

Documents <CIT> and <CIT> relate to an inspection system including a probe that includes a plurality of ultrasonic sensors.

The present invention is defined with the appended independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are defined in the appended dependent claims.

According to one embodiment, a display control system acquires a tilt of a detector with respect to a weld portion. The detector includes a plurality of detection elements arranged along a first arrangement direction and a second arrangement direction. The first arrangement direction and the second arrangement direction cross each other. The tilt is calculated based on a detection result of a reflected wave obtained by transmitting an ultrasonic wave from the plurality of detection elements. The system displays a user interface, displays a symbol and a tolerance range in a region included in the user interface, and updates the display of the symbol in the region according to the acquiring of the tilt. The region spreads two-dimensionally. The symbol indicates the tilt. The tolerance range is of a target value of the tilt.

Various embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The drawings are schematic and conceptual; and the relationships between the thickness and width of portions, the proportions of sizes among portions, etc., are not necessarily the same as the actual values. The dimensions and proportions may be illustrated differently among drawings, even for identical portions.

In the specification and drawings, components similar to those described previously or illustrated in an antecedent drawing are marked with like reference numerals, and a detailed description is omitted as appropriate.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a display control system and a display system according to an embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the display control system <NUM> according to the embodiment includes a display control device <NUM> and a memory device <NUM>. The memory device <NUM> stores data relating to the weld inspection. The display control device <NUM> displays the data relating to the weld inspection in a user interface.

The display system <NUM> according to the embodiment includes the display control system <NUM>, a display device <NUM>, and an input device <NUM>. The display control device <NUM> causes the display device <NUM> to display the user interface. The user easily can confirm the data relating to the weld inspection via the user interface displayed by the display device <NUM>. Also, the user can use the input device <NUM> to input data to the display control device <NUM> via the user interface.

Here, the weld inspection will be described in detail. A non-destructive inspection of the weld portion is performed in the weld inspection.

<FIG> is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of an inspection system according to the embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the inspection system <NUM> according to the embodiment includes a detector having multiple detection elements.

The detector is, for example, a probe <NUM> having a stick-shaped that can be gripped by the hand of a human, as illustrated in <FIG>. The detector includes the multiple detection elements for inspecting the weld portion. The human that grips the probe <NUM> inspects a weld portion <NUM> by causing the tip of the probe <NUM> to contact the weld portion <NUM>. Hereinafter, the human (e.g., the inspector) that grips the probe <NUM> and performs the weld inspection is called the user.

<FIG> is a schematic view illustrating the internal structure of the probe tip of the inspection system according to the embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a matrix sensor <NUM> is provided inside the probe <NUM> tip. The matrix sensor <NUM> includes the multiple detection elements. The detection element may be an ultrasonic sensor <NUM> capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic sensors <NUM> are, for example, transducers. The multiple ultrasonic sensors <NUM> are arranged along an X-direction (a first arrangement direction) and a Y-direction (a second arrangement direction) that cross each other. In the example, the X-direction and the Y-direction are orthogonal to each other. The X-direction and the Y-direction may not be orthogonal.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a state of inspecting a member <NUM>. The member <NUM> is made by spot-welding a metal plate <NUM> (a first member) and a metal plate <NUM> (a second member) at the weld portion <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, a solidified portion <NUM> is formed at the weld portion <NUM> by a portion of the metal plate <NUM> and a portion of the metal plate <NUM> melting, mixing, and solidifying.

A couplant <NUM> is coated onto the surface of an inspection object when inspecting so that an ultrasonic wave propagates easily between the inspection object and the probe <NUM>. Each of the ultrasonic sensors <NUM> transmits an ultrasonic wave US toward the member <NUM> coated with the couplant <NUM> and receives reflected waves RW from the member <NUM>.

As one specific example as illustrated in <FIG>, one ultrasonic sensor <NUM> transmits the ultrasonic wave US toward the weld portion <NUM>. A portion of the ultrasonic wave US is reflected by the upper surface or the lower surface of the member <NUM>, etc. Each of the multiple ultrasonic sensors <NUM> receives (detects) the reflected waves RW. The ultrasonic sensors <NUM> sequentially transmit the ultrasonic wave US, and the reflected waves RW are received by the multiple ultrasonic sensors <NUM>.

The inspection device <NUM> calculates the tilt of the probe <NUM> with respect to the weld portion <NUM> by using the detection result of the obtained reflected waves and inspects the weld portion <NUM>. Here, the angle between the normal direction of the surface of the weld portion <NUM> and the direction of the probe <NUM> is called the tilt. For example, the direction of the probe <NUM> corresponds to a Z-direction that is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic sensors <NUM>. The tilt is zero when the probe <NUM> contacts the weld portion <NUM> perpendicularly.

The inspection device <NUM> stores the calculation result of the tilt and the inspection result of the weld portion <NUM> in the memory device <NUM>. The display control device <NUM> refers to the calculation result of the tilt stored in the memory device <NUM>. Or, the inspection device <NUM> may transmit the calculation result of the tilt and the inspection result of the weld portion <NUM> to the display control device <NUM>. An example will now be described in which the calculation result of the tilt and the inspection result are transmitted directly from the inspection device <NUM> to the display control device <NUM>.

The inspection device <NUM> is connected to the probe <NUM> and the display control device <NUM> via wired communication, wireless communication, or a network. One processing device may function as the display control device <NUM> and the inspection device <NUM>.

<FIG> is an example of the user interface displayed by the display control system according to the embodiment.

<FIG> is a schematic view illustrating a state of the weld inspection.

<FIG> are drawings for describing the processing according to the display control system according to the embodiment.

<FIG> are examples of user interfaces displayed by the display control system according to the embodiment.

The display control device <NUM> displays information corresponding to the data stored in the memory device <NUM> and the data transmitted from the inspection device <NUM> in the user interface. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, a user interface <NUM> includes a region <NUM>.

The region <NUM> is a display region spreading two-dimensionally. A symbol <NUM> and a tolerance range <NUM> are displayed in the region <NUM>. The position of the symbol <NUM> in the region <NUM> indicates the tilt of the probe <NUM>. Specifically, the position in some one direction in the region <NUM> indicates an angle of the probe <NUM> around the X-direction with respect to the weld portion <NUM>. The position in another one direction in the region <NUM> indicates the angle around the Y-direction of the probe <NUM> with respect to the weld portion <NUM>.

For example, a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 that are orthogonal to each other spread in the region <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, the first direction D1 is the lateral direction, and the second direction D2 is the vertical direction. In the description hereinafter, the first direction D1 is taken to be the lateral direction, and the second direction D2 is taken to be the vertical direction. For example, the position in the lateral direction of the symbol <NUM> indicates the angle around the Y-direction of the probe <NUM> with respect to the weld portion <NUM>. The position in the vertical direction of the symbol <NUM> indicates the angle around the X-direction of the probe <NUM> with respect to the weld portion <NUM>.

The display control device <NUM> updates the display of the symbol <NUM> in the region <NUM> according to the reception of a new calculation result of the tilt. For example, the display control device <NUM> updates the display of the symbol <NUM> in the region <NUM> each time a new calculation result of the tilt is received. The tolerance range <NUM> indicates the range of the tolerated error for the target value of the tilt. The size of the tolerance range <NUM> is determined so that an appropriate inspection result is obtained when the symbol <NUM> is within the tolerance range <NUM>.

The tolerance range is shown using a shape. In the example of <FIG>, the tolerance range is shown using a circle. The shape that indicates the tolerance range is modified as appropriate. For example, the shape of the tolerance range may be elliptical or quadrilateral. The tolerance range may be shown using a cluster of multiple points or a cluster of multiple lines. The user that grips the probe <NUM> uses the display of the region <NUM> as a reference to adjust the tilt of the probe <NUM> so that the symbol <NUM> is within the tolerance range <NUM>.

By displaying the user interface <NUM> in which the tilt of the probe <NUM> and the tolerance range of the tilt are shown, the user easily can ascertain the information relating to the weld inspection. In other words, according to the display control system <NUM> according to the embodiment, the information that relates to the weld inspection can be displayed to the user in a more easily understandable way.

A first axis <NUM> and a second axis <NUM> also are displayed in the example of <FIG>. The first axis <NUM> is parallel to the first direction D1 (the lateral direction). The second axis <NUM> is parallel to the second direction D2 (the vertical direction). The first axis <NUM> is positioned at the vertical-direction center of the region <NUM>. The second axis <NUM> is positioned at the lateral-direction center of the region <NUM>. The crossing point of the first axis <NUM> and the second axis <NUM> indicates the target value of the tilt. In other words, the tilt of the probe <NUM> is zero when the symbol <NUM> is positioned at the crossing point of the first axis <NUM> and the second axis <NUM>. The center of the tolerance range <NUM> is positioned at the crossing point of the first axis <NUM> and the second axis <NUM>.

When the tilt of the probe <NUM> is changed, it is favorable for the movement direction of the symbol <NUM> to be associated with the change direction of the tilt of the probe <NUM>. For example, the symbol <NUM> moves in the lateral direction on the region <NUM> when the tilt of the probe <NUM> toward the lateral direction is changed in the state in which the movement direction of the symbol <NUM> is associated with the change direction of the tilt. The symbol <NUM> moves in the vertical direction on the region <NUM> when the tilt of the probe <NUM> is changed frontward or backward. A change of the tilt of the probe <NUM> toward the lateral direction means a change of the angle of the probe <NUM> around the longitudinal direction. Similarly, a change of the tilt of the probe <NUM> frontward or backward means a change of the angle of the probe <NUM> around the lateral direction. By associating the movement direction of the symbol <NUM> with the change direction of the tilt, the user can associate the display of the region <NUM> and the actual tilt of the probe <NUM> more intuitively. Based on the positional relationship between the symbol <NUM> and the tolerance range <NUM>, it can be understood intuitively how the probe <NUM> should be tilted.

For example, a marker or the like for associating the movement direction of the symbol <NUM> and the change direction of the tilt is provided in the probe <NUM>. By orienting the marker in a designated direction, the user U associates the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic sensors <NUM> and a direction when viewed by the user U. For example, the X-direction in which the ultrasonic sensors <NUM> are arranged is parallel to the lateral direction when viewed by the user U. When the association of these directions ends, the user U causes the probe <NUM> to contact the weld portion <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. At this time, frontward, backward, leftward, rightward, upward, and downward when viewed by the user U are as illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>. In this state, for example, the user U changes the tilt of the probe <NUM> leftward as illustrated in <FIG>. The tilt of the probe <NUM> after the change is calculated by the inspection device <NUM>. Based on the newly calculated tilt, the display control device <NUM> updates the display of the symbol <NUM> in the region <NUM>. At this time, the symbol <NUM> moves leftward on the region <NUM>.

Similarly, the symbol <NUM> moves rightward when the user U changes the tilt of the probe <NUM> rightward. The symbol <NUM> moves upward when the user U changes the tilt of the probe <NUM> frontward. The symbol <NUM> moves downward when the user U changes the tilt of the probe <NUM> backward. Thus, by associating the direction of tilting the probe <NUM> and the movement direction of the symbol <NUM>, the user U easily determines how the probe <NUM> should be tilted when referring to the region <NUM>.

The display control device <NUM> may change the form of the display of the symbol <NUM> according to a first difference between the tilt of the probe <NUM> and the target value and a second difference between the tilt of the probe <NUM> and the tolerance range. For example, the display control device <NUM> displays the symbol <NUM> to flash. The display control device <NUM> changes the period of the flash of the symbol <NUM> according to the first difference or the second difference. For example, the display control device <NUM> shortens the period of the flash as the first difference or the second difference decreases. The display control device <NUM> may change the color of the symbol <NUM> as the first difference or the second difference decreases.

When the display control device <NUM> is connected to an acoustic device, the display control device <NUM> may cause the acoustic device to output a sound corresponding to the first difference or the second difference. For example, the display control device <NUM> causes the sound to be output discontinuously when displaying the symbol <NUM>. The display control device <NUM> may shorten the period of the sound that is output as the first difference or the second difference decreases. The display control device <NUM> may change the timbre that is output as the first difference or the second difference decreases.

The display control device <NUM> may be configured to accept an operation of adjusting the size of the tolerance range <NUM>. The user can set the size of the tolerance range <NUM> arbitrarily according to the precision necessary in the weld inspection. For example, the user uses the input device <NUM> to input an operation to the display control device <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, an adjuster <NUM> for adjusting the size of the tolerance range <NUM> is displayed in the user interface <NUM>. The adjuster <NUM> is illustrated using a slider. The user moves a pointer <NUM> onto a bar <NUM> inside the slider and uses the input device <NUM> to move the bar <NUM> by drag & drop. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the size of the tolerance range <NUM> changes according to the position of the bar <NUM>.

An input field of a value indicating the tolerance range may be displayed as the adjuster <NUM>. For example, the user can adjust the size of the tolerance range by inputting a value to the input field. Or, the user may be able to adjust the size of the tolerance range <NUM> displayed by the region <NUM> by using the pointer <NUM> to perform drag & drop of the tolerance range <NUM>.

A switcher <NUM> for switching to an automatic adjustment of the tolerance range may be displayed in the user interface <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, the switcher <NUM> is an icon. The switcher <NUM> may be a checkbox. The size of the tolerance range is adjusted automatically when the user clicks the switcher <NUM> by operating the pointer <NUM>.

The size of the tolerance range is set based on a previous calculation result of the tilt and a previous inspection result stored in the memory device <NUM>. The tilt of the probe <NUM> affects the inspection result of the weld portion <NUM>. For example, the diameter of the weld portion <NUM> is calculated to be less than the actual value if the tilt of the probe <NUM> is too large. The diameter of the weld portion <NUM> that is calculated increases as the tilt of the probe <NUM> decreases. The diameter of the weld portion <NUM> that is calculated substantially no longer changes when the tilt of the probe <NUM> is sufficiently small. Such relationships between the tilt of the probe <NUM> and the diameter of the weld portion <NUM> that are calculated previously are stored in the memory device <NUM>.

The display control device <NUM> determines a boundary value based on the data stored in the memory device <NUM> so that the change of the diameter of the weld portion <NUM> with respect to the change of the tilt of the probe <NUM> becomes small. The display control device <NUM> sets the size of the tolerance range based on the boundary value. For example, the display control device <NUM> sets the boundary value as the size of the tolerance range. Or, to increase the accuracy of the inspection, the display control device <NUM> may set, as the tolerance range, a value that is less than the value calculated based on the boundary value.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a setter <NUM> and an operation part <NUM> also may be displayed in the user interface <NUM>.

The user can use the setter <NUM> to set parameters relating to the weld inspection. Input fields 931a to 931c, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and 935a to 935c are displayed in the example of <FIG>.

The thicknesses of the welded members are input to the input fields 931a to 931c. The diameter of the tip of the probe <NUM> is input to the input field <NUM>. The threshold of the diameter of the weld portion <NUM> is input to the input field <NUM>. For example, when inspecting a spot weld, the diameter of the weld portion <NUM> can be calculated based on the detection result of the reflected waves. The weld is determined to be good when the calculated diameter is not less than a threshold. The value of the input field <NUM> may be input automatically based on the values input to the input fields 931a to 931c. For example, the display control device <NUM> calculates the diameter necessary for joining the members having the thicknesses input to the input fields 931a to 931c according to a standard relating to welding. The calculated value is input automatically to the input field <NUM>.

The number of voxels set when calculating the tilt and when inspecting the weld portion <NUM> is input to the input field <NUM>. The lengths in the X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction of the voxels are input respectively in the input fields 935a to 935c. The details of the voxels are described in the estimation of the range of the weld portion <NUM> described below.

A menu for operating the inspection system <NUM> is displayed in the operation part <NUM>. Icons <NUM> to <NUM> are displayed in the example of <FIG>. When the icon <NUM> is clicked, the transmission of the ultrasonic waves from the probe <NUM> is started, and the calculation of the tilt is performed. Accordingly, the symbol <NUM> is displayed in the region <NUM>. When the icon <NUM> is clicked, the inspection of the weld portion <NUM> is performed. For example, the inspection is performed using the detection result of the reflected waves directly before the icon <NUM> is clicked. When the icon <NUM> is clicked, the transmission of the ultrasonic waves from the probe <NUM> stops.

For example, the display of the setter <NUM> can be switched between collapsed and expanded by clicking an icon <NUM>. Similarly, the display of the operation part <NUM> can be switched between collapsed and expanded by clicking an icon <NUM>. The setter <NUM> and the operation part <NUM> may be displayed in the same window as the region <NUM> or may be displayed in another window.

When the symbol <NUM> is confirmed to have entered the tolerance range <NUM>, the user clicks the icon <NUM>. Thereby, the inspection of the weld portion <NUM> is performed in a state in which the tilt of the probe <NUM> is sufficiently small, and a more accurate inspection result is obtained. Other than the icon <NUM>, a button for starting the inspection may be provided in the probe <NUM> or the inspection device <NUM>.

Or, the inspection of the weld portion <NUM> may be performed automatically when the user changes the tilt of the probe <NUM> and the symbol <NUM> enters the tolerance range <NUM>. For example, the display control device <NUM> pre-transmits the setting data of the tolerance range <NUM> to the inspection device <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> determines whether or not the tilt is within the tolerance range when calculating the tilt of the probe <NUM>. The inspection of the weld portion <NUM> is started automatically when the tilt is within the tolerance range. It is unnecessary for the user to operate the icon <NUM> because the inspection is performed automatically. If the next reflected wave is detected after the symbol <NUM> enters the tolerance range <NUM> and before the icon <NUM> is operated, the inspection is performed based on the detection result of the reflected waves. If the symbol <NUM> is outside the tolerance range <NUM> when the newest detection result is acquired, there is a possibility that a correct inspection result may not be obtained. Such a problem can be solved by the inspection being performed automatically.

The inspection device <NUM> may determine whether or not the probe <NUM> appropriately contacts the object. If the probe <NUM> is not in contact, a detection result that reflects the state of the weld portion <NUM> is not obtained. If the calculation of the tilt or the inspection is performed using the detection result when the probe <NUM> is not in contact, there is a possibility that a mistaken result may be output. For example, the inspection device <NUM> determines whether or not the probe <NUM> contacts the object appropriately based on the intensity of the reflected wave. The intensity of the detected reflected wave is low when the probe <NUM> does not contact the object. The inspection device <NUM> determines the contact of the probe <NUM> by comparing the intensity of the reflected wave to a prescribed threshold.

In other words, the determination of whether or not the probe <NUM> contacts the object is the determination of whether or not the detection result of an appropriate reflected wave is obtained. For example, the probe <NUM> may not directly contact the object and may contact via a couplant. In such a case, the ultrasonic wave propagates sufficiently between the probe <NUM> and the object via the couplant. Therefore, a detection result that is suited to the calculation of the tilt or the inspection is obtained. Even when the probe <NUM> directly contacts the inspection object, there is a possibility that an appropriate detection result may not be obtained if the couplant is not filled sufficiently between the probe <NUM> and the inspection object. Here, the determination based on the detection result of the reflected waves that the detection result is usable in the calculation of the tilt or the inspection is called the probe <NUM> being in contact with the object.

For example, the inspection device <NUM> calculates the tilt of the probe <NUM> when determining that the probe <NUM> contacts the object. The inspection device <NUM> transmits the calculated tilt to the display control device <NUM>. The display control device <NUM> updates the display of the symbol <NUM> according to the reception of the tilt. The inspection device <NUM> does not calculate the tilt when determining that the probe <NUM> does not contact the object. The inspection device <NUM> does not transmit the calculation result to the display control device <NUM>. Or, the inspection device <NUM> may transmit, to the display control device <NUM>, data indicating that the calculation of the tilt is invalid.

For example, the display control device <NUM> determines whether or not the tilt is transmitted continuously. The display control device <NUM> determines that the tilt cannot be acquired from the inspection system <NUM> when a prescribed period of time has elapsed from the reception of the directly-previous tilt, or when the data indicating invalidity is received. In such a case, the display control device <NUM> directly or indirectly displays in the user interface <NUM> that the probe <NUM> does not contact the object.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the probe <NUM> that contacts the weld portion <NUM> is moved in a direction away from the member <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> determines that the probe <NUM> does not contact the object. For example, the display control device <NUM> erases the symbol <NUM> that was displayed from the region <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. Thereby, the non-contact of the probe <NUM> is notified indirectly to the user via the user interface <NUM>. Or, the display control device <NUM> may display an error message <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. Thereby, the non-contact of the probe <NUM> is notified more directly to the user. By such notifications, the user can notice the non-contact of the probe <NUM> quickly. The user can restart the inspection more quickly by causing the probe <NUM> to appropriately contact the weld portion <NUM>.

After determining that the probe <NUM> does not contact the object, the inspection device <NUM> restarts the calculation of the tilt when determining that the probe <NUM> contacts the object. The inspection device <NUM> transmits the calculated tilt to the display control device <NUM>. When receiving the tilt, the display control device <NUM> restarts the display of the symbol <NUM>. At this time, for example, the error message <NUM> is closed automatically.

The inspection result may be transmitted to the display control device <NUM> when the inspection of the weld portion <NUM> is performed by the inspection device <NUM>. The display control device <NUM> causes the user interface <NUM> to display the inspection result. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, an inspection result <NUM> is displayed in the user interface. Items <NUM> to <NUM> are displayed in the example.

The item <NUM> shows the determination result of the inspection. For example, "OK", "NG", or "NA" is displayed in the item <NUM>. "OK" indicates that the weld is appropriate. "NG" indicates a non-weld. "NA" indicates that the inspection cannot be performed. The status of the weld portion <NUM> estimated from the detection result of the reflected waves is displayed in the item <NUM>. For example, as the status, information such as "welded", "not welded", "weld portion too thin", "diameter too small", or the like is displayed. The diameter of the weld portion <NUM> estimated from the detection result of the reflected waves is displayed in the item <NUM>. The longest diameter of the weld portion <NUM> is displayed in the item <NUM>. The shortest diameter of the weld portion <NUM> is displayed in the item <NUM>.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, a log of the operation of the inspection system <NUM> may be displayed in the user interface. For example, the log <NUM> that is illustrated in <FIG> displays the previous calculation results of the tilt, inspection results, etc..

For example, the display of the inspection result <NUM> can be switched between collapsed and expanded by clicking an icon <NUM>. Similarly, the display of the log <NUM> can be switched between collapsed and expanded by clicking an icon <NUM>. The inspection result <NUM> and the log <NUM> may be displayed in the same window as the region <NUM> or may be displayed in another window.

One specific example of the calculation method and the inspection method of the tilt will now be described.

<FIG> is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of an inspection control system according to the embodiment.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the weld inspection using the inspection control system according to the embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the inspection control system <NUM> according to the embodiment includes the display system <NUM> and the inspection system <NUM>. The user performs the weld inspection by using the inspection control system <NUM>. Here, an example is described in which the user that performs the weld inspection inspects by holding the probe <NUM>.

First, the user coats a couplant onto the weld portion <NUM> (step S1). The user causes the probe <NUM> to contact the weld portion <NUM> (step S2). In the state in which the probe <NUM> contacts the weld portion <NUM>, the multiple ultrasonic sensors <NUM> transmit the ultrasonic waves toward the member <NUM> including the weld portion <NUM> and receive the reflected waves. The probe <NUM> transmits the detection result of the reflected waves to the inspection device <NUM>. When receiving the detection result, the inspection device <NUM> estimates the range of the weld portion <NUM> in each of the X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction (step S3).

The inspection device <NUM> calculates the tilt of the probe <NUM> with respect to the weld portion <NUM> from the detection result of the reflected waves in the estimated range (step S4). The inspection device <NUM> transmits the calculated tilt to the display control device <NUM>. When receiving the tilt, the display control device <NUM> causes the user interface <NUM> to display the symbol <NUM> corresponding to the tilt (step S5). The user determines whether or not the symbol <NUM> is within the tolerance range <NUM> (step S6). When the symbol <NUM> is not within the tolerance range <NUM>, the user adjusts the tilt of the probe <NUM> so that the displayed symbol <NUM> approaches the tolerance range <NUM> (step S7). Step S4 is performed after the adjustment of the tilt. When the symbol <NUM> is within the tolerance range <NUM>, the user performs the inspection of the weld portion <NUM> (step S8).

<FIG> is a schematic view for describing the inspection method according to the inspection system according to the embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a portion of the ultrasonic wave US is reflected by an upper surface 10a of the metal plate <NUM> or an upper surface 10b of the weld portion <NUM>. Another portion of the ultrasonic wave US enters the member <NUM> and is reflected by a lower surface 10c of the metal plate <NUM> or a lower surface 10d of the weld portion <NUM>.

The positions in the Z-direction of the upper surface 10a, the upper surface 10b, the lower surface 10c, and the lower surface 10d are different from each other. In other words, the distance in the Z-direction between the ultrasonic sensor <NUM> and these surfaces are different from each other. The peaks of the intensities of the reflected waves are detected when the ultrasonic sensor <NUM> receives the reflected waves from these surfaces. Which surface reflected the ultrasonic wave US can be verified by calculating the time until each peak is detected after transmitting the ultrasonic wave US.

The intensity of the reflected wave may be represented in any form. For example, the reflected wave intensity that is output from the ultrasonic sensor <NUM> may include positive values and negative values according to the phase. Various processing may be performed based on the reflected wave intensity including the positive values and the negative values. The reflected wave intensity that includes the positive values and the negative values may be converted into absolute values. The average value of the reflected wave intensities may be subtracted from the reflected wave intensity at each time. Or, the weighted average value, the weighted moving average value, or the like of the reflected wave intensities may be subtracted from the reflected wave intensity at each time. The various processing described herein can be performed even when the results of such processing applied to the reflected wave intensity are used.

<FIG> are graphs illustrating the relationship between the time after transmitting the ultrasonic wave US and the intensity of the reflected wave RW. In <FIG>, the vertical axis is the elapsed time after transmitting the ultrasonic wave US. The horizontal axis is the intensity of the detected reflected wave RW. Here, the intensity of the reflected wave RW is illustrated as an absolute value. The graph of <FIG> illustrates the detection result of the reflected waves RW from the upper surface 10a and the lower surface 10c of the metal plate <NUM>. The graph of <FIG> illustrates the detection result of the reflected waves RW from the upper surface 10b and the lower surface 10d of the weld portion <NUM>.

In the graph of <FIG>, a peak Pe1 occurring first is based on the reflected wave RW from the upper surface 10a. A peak Pe2 occurring second is based on the reflected wave RW from the lower surface 10c. The times when the peak Pe1 and the peak Pe2 are detected correspond respectively to the positions in the Z-direction of the upper surface 10a and the lower surface 10c of the metal plate <NUM>. A time difference TD1 between the time when the peak Pe1 is detected and the time when the peak Pe2 is detected corresponds to a distance Di1 in the Z-direction between the upper surface 10a and the lower surface 10c.

Similarly, in the graph of <FIG>, a peak Pe3 occurring first is based on the reflected wave RW from the upper surface 10b. A peak Pe4 occurring second is based on the reflected wave RW from the lower surface 10d. The times when the peak Pe3 and the peak Pe4 are detected correspond respectively to the positions in the Z-direction of the upper surface 10b and the lower surface 10d of the weld portion <NUM>. A time difference TD2 between the time when the peak Pe3 is detected and the time when the peak Pe4 is detected corresponds to a distance Di2 in the Z-direction between the upper surface 10b and the lower surface 10d.

There are cases where the upper surface 10b and the lower surface 10d of the weld portion <NUM> are tilted with respect to the upper surface 10a of the metal plate <NUM>. This is due to the weld portion <NUM> including the solidified portion <NUM>, shape deformation in the welding process, etc. In such a case, it is desirable for the ultrasonic wave US to be transmitted along a direction that is, on average, perpendicular to the upper surface 10b or the lower surface 10d. Thereby, the ultrasonic wave can be reflected more strongly at the upper surface 10b and the lower surface 10d, and the accuracy of the inspection can be increased.

Step S3 will now be described in detail with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> are schematic views of images based on the detection result of the reflected waves.

<FIG> illustrates the state of the inspection object in the X-Z cross section. <FIG> illustrates the state of the inspection object in the Y-Z cross section.

In <FIG>, the points where the intensity of the reflected wave is high are illustrated using white. Here, the binarized intensity of the reflected wave is illustrated schematically. The position in the Z-direction corresponds to the time from emitting the ultrasonic wave until the reflected wave is received. The white lines that extend along the X-direction or the Y-direction illustrate the surfaces of the member.

In <FIG>, multiple white lines that exist at the center in the X-direction or the Y-direction are based on the reflected waves from the upper surface 10b and the lower surface 10d of the weld portion <NUM>. The multiple white lines that exist at the end side in the X-direction or the Y-direction are based on the reflected waves from the upper surface 10a and the lower surface 10c of the metal plate <NUM> or the upper surface and the lower surface of the metal plate <NUM>. Three or more white lines exist in the Z-direction in <FIG>. This shows that the ultrasonic wave US undergoes multiple reflections between the upper surface and the lower surface of each portion of the member <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the detection result of the reflected waves from the matrix sensor <NUM> also includes reflected waves from portions other than the weld portion <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> estimates the range of the weld portion <NUM> from the detection result of the reflected waves.

Here, as illustrated in <FIG>, the detection result of the reflected waves is illustrated two-dimensionally. The detection result of the reflected waves may be illustrated three-dimensionally. For example, the member <NUM> is illustrated by multiple voxels. Coordinates in the X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction are set for each of the voxels. A reflected wave intensity is associated with each of the voxels based on the detection result of the reflected waves. The inspection device <NUM> estimates a range (a group of voxels) corresponding to the weld portion <NUM> for the multiple voxels.

The number of voxels and the size of each voxel that are set may be determined automatically or may be set by the user via the user interface <NUM>. For example, the user can set the number of voxels and the size of each voxel by inputting values to the input fields <NUM> and 935a to 935c of the setter <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> are graphs illustrating the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction for one cross section.

<FIG> is a graph illustrating the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction.

The inspection device <NUM> calculates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction based on the detection result of the reflected waves. <FIG> are such examples. In <FIG>, the horizontal axis is the position in the Z-direction, and the vertical axis is the intensity of the reflected wave. <FIG> illustrates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction in one X-Z cross section. <FIG> illustrates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction in one Y-Z cross section. <FIG> illustrate the results in which the reflected wave intensities are converted into absolute values.

Or, the inspection device <NUM> may generate the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction by summing the reflected wave intensities in the X-Y plane for each of multiple points in the Z-direction. <FIG> is such an example. In <FIG>, the horizontal axis is the position in the Z-direction, and the vertical axis is the intensity of the reflected wave. <FIG> illustrates the results of converting the reflected wave intensities into absolute values and subtracting the average value of the reflected wave intensities from the reflected wave intensity for each of the multiple points in the Z-direction.

The intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction includes components reflected by the upper surface and the lower surface of the weld portion and components reflected by the upper surface and the lower surface of other portions. In other words, the intensity distribution includes periodic components corresponding to the time difference TD1 illustrated in <FIG> and periodic components corresponding to the time difference TD2 illustrated in <FIG>.

The inspection device <NUM> uses filtering to extract only the components reflected by the upper surface and the lower surface of the weld portion from the intensity distribution of the reflected waves. For example, values that correspond to integer multiples of half of the thickness in the Z-direction (the distance between the upper surface and the lower surface) of the weld portion are preset. The inspection device <NUM> extracts only the periodic components of the values by referring to the values.

A band-pass filter, a zero-phase filter, a low-pass filter, a high-pass filter, threshold determination of the intensity after the filtering, etc., can be used as the filtering.

<FIG> is a graph illustrating the results of filtering the intensity distribution of the reflected waves.

In <FIG>, the horizontal axis is the position in the Z-direction, and the vertical axis is the intensity of the reflected waves. In the results of the filtering as illustrated in <FIG>, only the components reflected by the upper surface and the lower surface of the weld portion are extracted.

The inspection device <NUM> estimates the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction based on the extraction results. For example, the inspection device <NUM> detects peaks included in the extraction results. The inspection device <NUM> detects the position in the Z-direction of a first peak and the position in the Z-direction of a second peak. For example, the inspection device <NUM> uses these positions as a reference to estimate a range Ra1 illustrated in <FIG> to be the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction.

There are cases where the sign (positive or negative) of the reflected wave intensity from the upper surface of the weld portion and the sign of the reflected wave intensity from the lower surface of the weld portion are reversed due to the structure of the weld portion, the configuration of the matrix sensor <NUM>, etc. In such a case, the inspection device <NUM> may detect a peak of one of positive or negative and another peak of the other of positive or negative. The inspection device <NUM> uses the positions of these peaks as references to estimate the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction. Also, according to the processing of the reflected wave intensity, there are cases where the reflected wave intensity has only positive values or negative values. In such a case, the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction may be estimated based on the positions of multiple peaks, may be estimated based on the positions of the peak and the bottom, or may be estimated based on the positions of multiple bottoms. In other words, the inspection device <NUM> uses the reflected wave intensity after the filtering to estimate the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction based on the positions of multiple extrema.

When the intensity distribution of the reflected waves is generated for each of the X-Z cross section and the Y-Z cross section, the range in the Z-direction based on the intensity distribution in the X-Z cross section and the range in the Z-direction based on the intensity distribution in the Y-Z cross section are estimated. For example, the inspection device <NUM> calculates the average, the weighted average, the weighted moving average, or the like of the multiple estimation results and estimates the calculation result to be the range of the entire weld portion in the Z-direction.

Or, the inspection device <NUM> may estimate the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction based on the intensity distribution of the reflected waves for one of the X-Z cross section or the Y-Z cross section and use the estimation result as the range of the entire weld portion in the Z-direction. The inspection device <NUM> may estimate the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction based on the intensity distribution of the reflected waves for a portion in the X-direction and a portion in the Y-direction and use the estimation result as the range of the entire weld portion in the Z-direction. The calculation amount necessary for the generation of the intensity distribution of the reflected waves can be reduced by such processing.

In the example of <FIG>, the position in the Z-direction of the lower limit of the range Ra1 is set by subtracting a prescribed value from the position in the Z-direction of the first peak. The position in the Z-direction of the upper limit of the range Ra1 is set by adding a prescribed value to the position in the Z-direction of the second peak. Thereby, the second peak can be suppressed from being outside the range in the Z-direction of the weld portion at some point in the X-Y plane if the upper surface and the lower surface of the weld portion are tilted with respect to the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic sensors <NUM>.

After estimating the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction, the inspection device <NUM> estimates the range of the weld portion in the X-direction and the range of the weld portion in the Y-direction.

<FIG> and <FIG> are schematic views illustrating the detection result of the reflected waves.

In <FIG> and <FIG>, a region R is the entire region where the detection result of the reflected waves is obtained by the matrix sensor <NUM>. One cross section of the region R includes the components of the reflected waves of the upper surface and the lower surface of the weld portion and the components of the reflected waves of the upper surface and the lower surface of the other portions.

The inspection device <NUM> generates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane for each of multiple points in the Z-direction. The inspection device <NUM> may generate the intensity distribution within a preset range in the Z-direction. The calculation amount can be reduced thereby. Or, the inspection device <NUM> may generate the intensity distribution within the estimated range in the Z-direction. Thereby, the reflected wave component being outside the lower surface of the weld portion when generating the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane can be suppressed while reducing the calculation amount.

<FIG> are examples of the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane. <FIG> illustrates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane at the coordinate of Z = <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane at the coordinate of Z = <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane at the coordinate of Z = <NUM>. The binarized intensity of the reflected wave is illustrated schematically in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>.

The inspection device <NUM> calculates the centroid position of the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the X-Y plane for each of the multiple points in the Z-direction. Here, the centroid position of the intensity distribution is obtained by calculating the centroid position of an image of the intensity distribution. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the inspection device <NUM> calculates centroid positions C1 to C350 of the images. <FIG> illustrates the results of a line segment L connecting all of the centroid positions from Z = <NUM> to Z = <NUM>.

The inspection device <NUM> averages the centroid positions from Z = <NUM> to Z = <NUM>. The average position of the centroids in the X-direction and the average position of the centroids in the Y-direction are obtained thereby. In <FIG>, an average position AP illustrates the average position of the centroids in the X-direction and the average position of the centroids in the Y-direction. The inspection device <NUM> uses prescribed ranges in the X-direction and the Y-direction from the average position AP at the center as a range Ra2 of the weld portion in the X-direction and a range Ra3 of the weld portion in the Y-direction.

For example, a value V that indicates the diameter of the probe <NUM> (the matrix sensor <NUM>) is preset to estimate the range Ra2 and the range Ra3. The inspection device <NUM> uses the ranges of AP - V/<NUM> to AP + V/<NUM> as the range Ra2 and the range Ra3 respectively in the X-direction and the Y-direction. In such a case, the estimated range in the X-Y plane is quadrilateral. The estimated range is not limited to the example; the estimated range in the X-Y plane may have a polygonal shape having five or more corners, a circular shape, etc. The shape of the estimated range in the X-Y plane is modifiable as appropriate according to the shape of the weld portion.

The range Ra2 and the range Ra3 may be determined using another value based on the value V. Instead of the value indicating the diameter of the probe <NUM>, a value that indicates the diameter of the weld portion may be preset. This is because the diameter of the weld portion corresponds to the diameter of the probe <NUM>. The value that indicates the diameter of the weld portion can be considered to be a value that substantially indicates the diameter of the probe <NUM>.

The range Ra1 in the Z-direction, the range Ra2 in the X-direction, and the range Ra3 in the Y-direction of the weld portion are estimated by the processing described above. After the ranges are estimated, step S4 illustrated in <FIG> is performed based on the detection result of the reflected waves in the estimated ranges.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the inspection system according to the embodiment.

The inspection device <NUM> receives the detection result of the reflected waves from the probe <NUM> (step S301). Based on the detection result, the inspection device <NUM> generates the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction (step S302). The inspection device <NUM> filters the intensity distribution based on a value of the thickness of the weld portion (step S303). Thereby, only the reflected wave components of the weld portion are extracted from the intensity distribution. Based on the extraction results, the inspection device <NUM> estimates the range of the weld portion in the Z-direction (step S304). The inspection device <NUM> calculates the centroid position of the reflected wave intensity in the X-Y plane for each of multiple points in the Z-direction (step S305). The inspection device <NUM> calculates the average position by averaging the multiple calculated centroid positions (step S306). Based on the average position and the diameter of the probe <NUM>, the inspection device <NUM> estimates the range in each of the X-direction and the Y-direction (step S307).

The estimation of the range in the Z-direction may be performed after estimating the ranges in the X-direction and the Y-direction. For example, steps S302 to S304 may be performed after steps S305 to S307 in the flowchart illustrated in <FIG>. In such a case, the inspection device <NUM> may calculate the intensity distribution of the reflected waves in the Z-direction within the estimated ranges in the X-direction and the Y-direction. The calculation amount can be reduced thereby.

<FIG> is an image illustrating a detection result of the reflected waves.

In <FIG>, whiter colors show that the intensity of the reflected wave is greater at that point. The inspection device <NUM> performs the operation illustrated in <FIG> for the detection result illustrated in <FIG>. As a result, a range Ra is estimated.

One specific example of a method for calculating the tilt in the range Ra will now be described.

<FIG> is a drawing for describing the processing according to the inspection system according to the embodiment.

<FIG> and <FIG> are examples of images obtained by the inspection system according to the embodiment.

<FIG> is three-dimensional volume data depicted based on the detection result of the reflected waves. <FIG> illustrates the surface of the weld portion <NUM> in the volume data illustrated in <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates the Y-Z cross section at the weld portion <NUM> vicinity in the volume data illustrated in <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates the X-Z cross section at the weld portion <NUM> vicinity in the volume data illustrated in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the upper side is the surface of the weld portion, and the data downward in the depth direction is shown. The portions where the luminance is high are portions where the reflection intensity of the ultrasonic wave is large. The ultrasonic wave is reflected strongly by the bottom surface of the weld portion <NUM>, a surface between the members not joined to each other, etc..

The tilt of the probe <NUM> corresponds to the angle between a direction 13a perpendicular to the weld portion <NUM> and a direction 310a of the probe <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. This angle is expressed as an angle θx around the X-direction and an angle θy around the Y-direction. The direction 310a of the probe <NUM> is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the ultrasonic sensors <NUM>.

The angle θx is calculated based on the detection result in the Y-Z cross section as illustrated in <FIG>. The angle θy is calculated based on the detection result in the X-Z cross section as illustrated in <FIG>. The inspection device <NUM> calculates the average of the three-dimensional luminance gradients in the cross sections as the angle θx and θy. The inspection device <NUM> transmits the calculated angle θx and θy to the display control device <NUM> as the tilt of the probe <NUM> and stores the angle θx and θy in the memory device <NUM>.

The inspection of the weld portion described above may be performed automatically by a robot.

<FIG> is a schematic view illustrating a configuration of an inspection system according to a modification of the embodiment.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a portion of the inspection system according to the modification of the embodiment.

The inspection system 300a illustrated in <FIG> includes the inspection device <NUM> and a robot <NUM>. The robot <NUM> includes the probe <NUM>, an imager <NUM>, a coater <NUM>, an arm <NUM>, and a control device <NUM>.

The imager <NUM> acquires an image by imaging the welded member. The imager <NUM> extracts a weld mark from the image and detects roughly the position of the weld portion <NUM>. The coater <NUM> coats a couplant onto the upper surface of the weld portion <NUM>.

The probe <NUM>, the imager <NUM>, and the coater <NUM> are provided at the tip of the arm <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. The arm <NUM> is, for example, a <NUM>-DOF (Degree of Freedom) vertical articulated robot including multiple links and multiple rotation axes. The arm <NUM> includes multiple actuators (for example, motors). The multiple actuators respectively drive the multiple rotation axes. The probe <NUM>, the imager <NUM>, and the coater <NUM> can be displaced by driving the arm <NUM>. The control device <NUM> controls the operations of the components of the robot <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the inspection system according to the modification of the embodiment.

First, the imager <NUM> images the member <NUM> and detects the position of the weld portion <NUM> from the acquired image (step S11). The arm <NUM> moves the coater <NUM> to a position opposing the weld portion <NUM>. The coater <NUM> coats the couplant onto the weld portion <NUM> (step S12). The arm <NUM> moves the probe <NUM> and causes the probe <NUM> to contact the weld portion <NUM> (step S13).

In the state in which the probe <NUM> contacts the weld portion <NUM>, the ultrasonic wave is transmitted, and the reflected waves are received. The probe <NUM> transmits the detection result of the reflected waves to the inspection device <NUM>. Based on the detection result, the inspection device <NUM> estimates the range of the weld portion <NUM> in the X-direction, the Y-direction, and the Z-direction (step S14). Based on the detection result of the reflected waves in the estimated range, the inspection device <NUM> calculates the tilt of the probe <NUM> (step S15). The inspection device <NUM> transmits the calculated tilt to the display control device <NUM> and stores the calculated tilt in the memory device <NUM>.

The inspection device <NUM> determines whether or not the calculated tilt is within a tolerance range (step S16). When the tilt is not within the tolerance range, the control device <NUM> adjusts the tilt of the probe <NUM> by driving the arm <NUM> (step S17). The tilt of the probe <NUM> is calculated again based on the detection result of the reflected waves after adjusting the tilt. When the tilt is within the tolerance range, the inspection device <NUM> inspects the weld portion <NUM> by using the detection result of the reflected waves for which the tilt is obtained (step S18). The inspection device <NUM> determines whether or not an uninspected weld portion <NUM> exists (step S19). The inspection ends when there is no uninspected weld portion <NUM>. When an uninspected weld portion <NUM> exists, the inspection device <NUM> drives the arm <NUM> and moves the probe <NUM>, the imager <NUM>, and the coater <NUM> toward another weld portion <NUM> (step S20). Subsequently, steps S11 to S19 are performed again.

The display control device <NUM> updates the display of the symbol <NUM> in the region <NUM> of the user interface <NUM> according to the reception of the tilt of the probe <NUM> calculated in step S15. The user easily can confirm, from the user interface <NUM>, the transition of the tilt of the probe <NUM>, whether or not the inspection is being performed within the tolerance range, etc. In such a case, for example, the user is the manager of the weld inspection.

In the example described above, the weld portion <NUM> that is spot-welded is inspected by the inspection system <NUM>. The welding method is not limited to the example; a member that is welded using another method may be inspected by the inspection system <NUM>. For example, the inspection system <NUM> may inspect a member that is subjected to arc welding, laser welding, or seam welding. A non-destructive inspection that uses the probe <NUM> is possible for members welded by these methods as well. To obtain an appropriate inspection result, it is desirable for the tilt of the probe <NUM> with respect to the weld portion to be small.

The content that is displayed in the setter <NUM>, the inspection result <NUM>, etc., is modified as appropriate according to the welding method of the inspected member. For example, for welding in a line configuration by arc welding, laser welding, or seam welding, the threshold of the width of the weld portion is input to the input field <NUM>. In the inspection, the weld is determined to be good when the width of the weld portion calculated based on the detection result of the reflected waves is not less than a threshold. For example, the value of the average of the widths of the weld portion for each of the multiple points is displayed in the item <NUM>. The longest width of the weld portion is displayed in the item <NUM>. The shortest width of the weld portion is displayed in the item <NUM>.

In the inspection system 300a according to the modified example, instead of the arm <NUM>, another movable mechanism having two or more DOF may be provided. The movable mechanism includes an actuator. The probe <NUM> is attached to the movable mechanism. For example, the movable mechanism includes at least one selected from a <NUM>-DOF parallel link mechanism, a <NUM>-DOF horizontal articulated mechanism, and a <NUM>-DOF gonio head. The control device <NUM> controls and drives the movable mechanism. By driving the movable mechanism, the tilt of the probe <NUM> changes. When the DOF of the movable mechanism is less than <NUM>-DOF, the member <NUM> is preferably transported by a transport mechanism (not shown) so as to come into contact with the probe <NUM>. <FIG> is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the system.

For example, the display control device <NUM> of the display control system <NUM> according to the embodiment is a computer and includes ROM (Read Only Memory) <NUM>, RAM (Random Access Memory) <NUM>, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) <NUM>, and a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) <NUM>.

The ROM <NUM> stores programs controlling the operations of the computer. The ROM <NUM> stores programs necessary for causing the computer to realize the processing described above.

The RAM <NUM> functions as a memory region where the programs stored in the ROM <NUM> are loaded. The CPU <NUM> includes a processing circuit. The CPU <NUM> reads a control program stored in the ROM <NUM> and controls the operation of the computer according to the control program. Also, the CPU <NUM> loads various data obtained by the operation of the computer into the RAM <NUM>. The HDD <NUM> stores data necessary for reading and data obtained in the reading process. For example, the HDD <NUM> functions as the memory device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

Instead of the HDD <NUM>, the display control device <NUM> may include an eMMC (embedded Multi Media Card), a SSD (Solid State Drive), a SSHD (Solid State Hybrid Drive), etc..

A hardware configuration similar to that of <FIG> is applicable to the inspection device <NUM> of the inspection system <NUM> as well. In the inspection control system <NUM>, one computer may function as the display control device <NUM> and the inspection device <NUM>. Or, the processing and the functions of the display control device <NUM> and the inspection device <NUM> may be realized by collaboration between more computers.

The display device <NUM> includes, for example, at least one of a monitor or a display. The input device <NUM> includes, for example, at least one of a mouse, a keyboard, a touchpad, or a microphone (audio input).

By using the display control system, the inspection control system, and the display control method according to the embodiments described above, the information that relates to the weld inspection can be displayed to the user in a more easily understandable way. Similar effects can be obtained by using a program for causing the computer to operate as the display control system or the inspection control system.

The processing of the various data recited above may be recorded in a magnetic disk (a flexible disk, a hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD±R, DVD±RW, etc.), semiconductor memory, or another recording medium as a program that can be executed by a computer.

For example, the data that is recorded in the recording medium can be read by a computer (or an embedded system). The recording format (the storage format) of the recording medium is arbitrary. For example, the computer reads the program from the recording medium and causes a CPU to execute the instructions recited in the program based on the program. In the computer, the acquisition (or the reading) of the program may be performed via a network.

Claim 1:
An inspection system (<NUM>), comprising:
a detector (<NUM>) including a plurality of detection elements (<NUM>) arranged along a first arrangement direction (X) and a second arrangement direction (Y), the first arrangement direction and the second arrangement direction crossing each other, the detector transmitting an ultrasonic wave (US) toward a weld portion (<NUM>) and detecting a reflected wave (RW);
an inspection device (<NUM>) configured to calculate a tilt of the detector (<NUM>) with respect to the weld portion (<NUM>);
characterized in that it further comprises a display control system (<NUM>) configured to acquire the tilt of the detector (<NUM>) with respect to the weld portion (<NUM>),
the system being configured to display a user interface (<NUM>), displaying a symbol (<NUM>) and a tolerance range (<NUM>) in a region (<NUM>) included in the user interface, and to update the display of the symbol in the region according to the acquiring of the tilt,
the region (<NUM>) spreading two-dimensionally, the symbol indicating the tilt, the tolerance range being of a target value of the tilt.