Multi-tube high speed rotating probe

摘要

A multi-tube probe apparatus (55) comprises a plurality of probe heads (60) connected to a respective plurality of flexible shaft assemblies (52) for respectively testing a plurality of tubes. A single longitudinal drive unit (55) is connected to all of the flexible shaft assemblies (52) to simultaneously move the probe heads (60) into and out of tubes. A separate rotational drive unit is connected to each flexible shaft assembly for rotating the probe head within the tube. The flexible shaft assembly comprises an outer flexible hose and an inner interlocked metal hose. The interlocked metal hose transfers the rotational force from the rotational drive unit (50) to the probe head and also contains electrical conductors within a hollow core of the hose. The interlocked metal hose is preferably used as a ground conductor so as to reduce the number of cables that are passed through the interlocked metal hose and to provide electrical shielding. A sheet pattern plate (74) positions the probe heads (60) and flexible shaft (52) assemblies to coincide with the positioning of the tubes. The single longitudinal drive unit enables the simultaneous use of more than one probe head which substantially reduces the testing time and therefore increases productivity.