Detection of Missing Bearing Clips Using Microwave Resonances

An “End of Line inspection problem involves the detection of missing bearing clips. Microwave resonances can be a useful tool in “Non-invasive” detecting of these missing clips. The mechanism involves the sensitive relationship exhibited by the resonance with regards to the crank angle at which the resonance appears. “The Resonant Crank Angle.” This angle depends upon the exact physical dimensions of the cylinder in combination with the selected microwave frequency. The map of the spread in crank angular position of a resonance for engines with bearing clips intact serves as a reference to compare with a similar map from an engine with a missing clip. Solutions to the Microwave Model equation are given to illustrate the sensitivity of the method with regards to the frequency and mode selected.