Abstract: A probe device is disclosed for checking threaded bores in a workpiece to detect various abnormal conditions including a broken tool or probe, absence of the workpiece or bore, or the threaded condition of the bore. The probe is affixed to a transversely mounted piston which is actuated by air pressure to move the probe sideways during a phase of the probing action in which a probe tip is moved against the surface to be tested, blockage of an air outlet occurring if the surface is unthreaded. The resulting increase in air pressure is detected by a pressure switch to enable operation of a fault signal. The probe tip is slidably mounted in the main body of the probe to be moved back as the probe is advanced towards the workpiece in the initial phase of the test if a bore is absent or a broken tool is lodged therein, with porting shutting off air flow to the tip air outlet to also cause an increase in back pressure enabling generation of a fault signal.

Abstract: A multimode testing device is disclosed for automatic testing of a threaded feature on a workpiece, comprised of a housing mounting a forward extending probe tip having an outlet supplied with air pressure via internal passages in the housing. In the first test mode, an obstruction test is made to detect the absence of the threaded feature or the presence of a broken tool, the obstruction test made by advance of the probe tip into the threaded feature. A contact of the probe tip with an obstruction causes blockage of an internal passage and an increase in back pressure therein which is detected by a pressure sensor. If no obstruction is detected, a second test mode is initiated by tilting the probe tip by an air cylinder operated actuator rod formed with cam surfaces interfit with complementary surfaces on a thrust rod mounted to push the probe tip sideways.

Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for detecting minute leaks in wheel rims, including a bell jar cover lowered over a rim previously placed in position on a support member, engagement of surfaces on the cover and support member with the tire bead flanges of the wheel rim creating a separate hermetically sealed interior and exterior test chamber, each defined in part by the periphery of the wheel rim. These testing chambers are first evacuated, and the exterior chamber then pressurized with a gas composed at least in part of a trace gas, while the interior chamber is placed at or below atmopsheric pressure. A scavenging gas flow is initiated through the interior chamber after a brief delay, which flow is collected and directed to a trace gas sensor to detect the presence of trace gas in the interior chamber resulting from leakage through the wheel rim. In order to eliminate residual trace gas, each test chamber is evacuated and purged with air flow prior to opening of the housing and removal of the wheel rim tested.

Abstract: A gauge for determining the existence of irregularities in a surface of an article includes a housing and a probe having a fluid outlet for the passage of fluid under pressure therethrough which is mounted within the housing for movement between neutral and a sensing position. The gauge further includes a sensor for detecting the pressure of the fluid in the sensing position of the probe. A micro switch, normally spaced from the probe is adapted to signal an extreme movement of the probe beyond the sensing position when no material of the part tested is present. A modified gauge replaces a probe valve and includes a control sleeve and a push arm which engages a second micro switch in the electrical circuit responding to any retraction of the probe. A method is also disclosed, including the steps of moving the probe between a neutral and sensing position and detecting the pressure of the fluid in the sensing position of the probe.