Torsional mode ultrasonic helical waveguide sensor for re-configurable temperature measurement

Abstract

This paper introduces an ultrasonic torsional mode based technique, configured in the form of a helical "spring-like" waveguide, for multi-level temperature measurement. The multiple sensing levels can be repositioned by stretching or collapsing the spring to provide simultaneous measurements at different desired spacing in a given area/volume. The transduction is performed using piezo-electric crystals that generate and receive T(0,1) mode in a pulse echo mode. The gage lengths and positions of measurements are based on machining multiple reflector notches in the waveguide at required positions. The time of fight (TOF) measurements between the reflected signals from the notches provide local temperatures that compare well with co-located thermocouples.