Caterpillar Inc.

Gregory H Dubay

Dong Fei

Clifford E Miller

Leon Robert Adcock

Donald Stickel

Michael T Buelsing

Paul M Ives

Jean O Bridge

Michael V Dziubinski

A system for inspecting a weld on a component where the weld has a plurality of cross-sections includes a camera disposed above the weld that optically senses a weld position. A projector disposed above the weld projects on to the component along a length of the weld position a primary scan path with a primary scan path start point and a primary scan path end point. An imaging probe scans the weld as the imaging probe moves from the primary scan path start point to the primary scan path end point to generate a plurality of 2D cross-sectional images of the weld corresponding to the cross-sections of the weld, the imaging probe having a position and skew angle that vary as the imaging probe moves. Each 2D cross-sectional image of the weld is optically encoded with a respective imaging probe position and a respective imaging probe skew angle.

Weld inspection method and system

The frames of many construction machines comprise a complex compilation of fabricated sections or massive cast members that are not necessarily intended to handle a specific type of loading applied to the frame assembly. The present invention provides a frame construction that includes a pair of laterally spaced plate members. Each plate member has a first end portion constructed of a substantially solid plate. A second end portion of the plate members define at least one opening that provides an integral portion of a beam assembly. The first end portion is positioned in the frame construction to accommodate a first type of loading, while the second end portion is located in an area to accommodate a second type of loading.

Frame construction

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Carlock, IL, United States of America

Gregory H Dubay