1. A portable wood inspection device (100) comprising: a handheld housing (102) defining an external enclosure and an internal compartment, said handheld housing (102) comprising a pivot-lock interface (104) and a compressible biasing assembly (106) disposed within said internal compartment; a hinged probe head (108) rotatably retained by said pivot-lock interface (104), said hinged probe head (108) comprising a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) arranged in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly (112); said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) comprising a near-infrared optical sensor (114) mounted behind a transparent scanning interface (116) positioned at a lower surface of said hinged probe head (108), said optical sensor (114) adapted to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from a wood surface; said acoustic inspection assembly (112) comprising a percussive striker (118) slidably retained within a striker guide (120), said striker (118) preloaded by a calibrated compression spring (122) and selectively actuated by a trigger component (124) retained within said hinged probe head (108), said striker (118) oriented to deliver mechanical impulses to the wood surface beneath said transparent scanning interface (116); a contact microphone (126) supported within said hinged probe head (108) and positioned adjacent to said percussive striker (118), said contact microphone (126) mounted on an isolating substrate (128) configured to receive acoustic response signals generated by the striker impact; a vibration dampening plate (130) disposed between said contact microphone (126) and said handheld housing (102), said vibration dampening plate (130) configured to attenuate mechanical noise external to said probe head (108); a processing unit (132) housed within said handheld housing (102) and operatively connected to said optical sensor (114) and said contact microphone (126), said processing unit (132) adapted to process spectral data and acoustic feedback to identify wood species and detect internal anomalies; and a display interface (134) mounted on said handheld housing (102), said display interface (134) adapted to present species identification data and quality assessment results derived from said processing unit (132).

2. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torque-modulated bracket formed with an integrated torsion spring, such torsion spring arranged concentrically with said compressible biasing assembly (106) and adapted to counteract angular displacement of said hinged probe head (108), such that a return-to-neutral orientation is achieved automatically upon withdrawal of external contact force from the wood surface.

3. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said transparent scanning interface (116) is retained within a suspension cradle comprising vertically displaceable arms coupled to spring-dampened mounts, and said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) is retained above said transparent scanning interface (116) through an elastomeric buffer, such that said transparent scanning interface (116) maintains surface contact and compensates for elevation variability without disrupting signal alignment with said optical sensor (114).

4. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said vibration dampening plate (130) comprises a laminated structure including a viscoelastic polymer bonded to a thermal insulating film, said vibration dampening plate (130) interposed between said isolating substrate (128) and an inner support face of said handheld housing (102), such that multidirectional vibrations and transient temperature-induced distortions are suppressed before reaching said contact microphone (126).

5. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said compression spring (122) comprises a dual-rate coil arrangement nested concentrically within said striker guide (120), such that a first low-stiffness coil engages during initial striker displacement and a second higher-stiffness coil engages upon deeper displacement, allowing variable energy output from said percussive striker (118) based on surface compliance.

6. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said striker guide (120) comprises a helical thread formed along its interior wall and said percussive striker (118) comprises a mating thread along its outer surface, such that rotational advancement of said percussive striker (118) within said striker guide (120) alters striker height and modulates impact energy output.

7. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torsional collar seated within a radial notch of said handheld housing (102), and said torsional collar comprises a plurality of elastic blades arranged concentrically around a pivot axis, such that torsional load induced by lateral tilt of said hinged probe head (108) is absorbed and released in a manner that restores original orientation post-contact.

8. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) comprises a baseplate supported along a linear translation path beneath said vibration dampening plate (130), such baseplate retained within a track that allows axial retraction when vertical impact force is received from said percussive striker (118), and such retraction counteracted by a compression spring disposed between said handheld housing (102) and said baseplate, such that recoil from said percussive striker (118) is temporarily absorbed and said baseplate is returned to a neutral position following impact completion.

9. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) includes a foldable stabilization arm supported by an arcuate positioning bracket mechanically coupled to said pivot-lock interface (104), such that said foldable stabilization arm is configured to engage one of multiple notches arranged along said bracket, and said stabilization arm provides angular positioning of said hinged probe head (108) relative to inclined or contoured furniture surfaces during stationary inspection conditions.

10. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said percussive striker (118) comprises a replaceable contact tip retained within a receiving bore of said striker guide (120) using a threaded retention collar, and said contact tip further includes an indexing flange aligned with a detent formed in said striker guide (120), such that interchanging contact tips of varying hardness profiles and geometries is enabled without altering the alignment between said percussive striker (118) and said optical sensor (114).   WOOD INSPECTION PORTABLE DEVICE FOR SURFACE AND SUBSURFACE FURNITURE ASSESSMENT Abstract The present disclosure provides a portable wood inspection device (100) comprising a handheld housing (102) having a pivot-lock interface (104) and a compressible biasing assembly (106). A hinged probe head (108) mounted on the housing comprises a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) with a near-infrared optical sensor (114) positioned behind a transparent scanning interface (116), and an acoustic inspection assembly (112) including a percussive striker (118), a striker guide (120), a compression spring (122), and a trigger component (124). A contact microphone (126) mounted on an isolating substrate (128) is positioned adjacent to the striker. A vibration dampening plate (130) separates the microphone from the housing. A processing unit (132) processes data from the optical sensor and microphone. A display interface (134) presents wood species identification and quality assessment results. Fig. 1 Dated 02 August 2025 Kumar Tushar Srivastava IN/PA- 3973 Agent for the Applicant , Claims:Claims :

1. A portable wood inspection device (100) comprising: a handheld housing (102) defining an external enclosure and an internal compartment, said handheld housing (102) comprising a pivot-lock interface (104) and a compressible biasing assembly (106) disposed within said internal compartment; a hinged probe head (108) rotatably retained by said pivot-lock interface (104), said hinged probe head (108) comprising a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) arranged in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly (112); said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) comprising a near-infrared optical sensor (114) mounted behind a transparent scanning interface (116) positioned at a lower surface of said hinged probe head (108), said optical sensor (114) adapted to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from a wood surface; said acoustic inspection assembly (112) comprising a percussive striker (118) slidably retained within a striker guide (120), said striker (118) preloaded by a calibrated compression spring (122) and selectively actuated by a trigger component (124) retained within said hinged probe head (108), said striker (118) oriented to deliver mechanical impulses to the wood surface beneath said transparent scanning interface (116); a contact microphone (126) supported within said hinged probe head (108) and positioned adjacent to said percussive striker (118), said contact microphone (126) mounted on an isolating substrate (128) configured to receive acoustic response signals generated by the striker impact; a vibration dampening plate (130) disposed between said contact microphone (126) and said handheld housing (102), said vibration dampening plate (130) configured to attenuate mechanical noise external to said probe head (108); a processing unit (132) housed within said handheld housing (102) and operatively connected to said optical sensor (114) and said contact microphone (126), said processing unit (132) adapted to process spectral data and acoustic feedback to identify wood species and detect internal anomalies; and a display interface (134) mounted on said handheld housing (102), said display interface (134) adapted to present species identification data and quality assessment results derived from said processing unit (132).

2. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torque-modulated bracket formed with an integrated torsion spring, such torsion spring arranged concentrically with said compressible biasing assembly (106) and adapted to counteract angular displacement of said hinged probe head (108), such that a return-to-neutral orientation is achieved automatically upon withdrawal of external contact force from the wood surface.

3. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said transparent scanning interface (116) is retained within a suspension cradle comprising vertically displaceable arms coupled to spring-dampened mounts, and said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) is retained above said transparent scanning interface (116) through an elastomeric buffer, such that said transparent scanning interface (116) maintains surface contact and compensates for elevation variability without disrupting signal alignment with said optical sensor (114).

4. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said vibration dampening plate (130) comprises a laminated structure including a viscoelastic polymer bonded to a thermal insulating film, said vibration dampening plate (130) interposed between said isolating substrate (128) and an inner support face of said handheld housing (102), such that multidirectional vibrations and transient temperature-induced distortions are suppressed before reaching said contact microphone (126).

5. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said compression spring (122) comprises a dual-rate coil arrangement nested concentrically within said striker guide (120), such that a first low-stiffness coil engages during initial striker displacement and a second higher-stiffness coil engages upon deeper displacement, allowing variable energy output from said percussive striker (118) based on surface compliance.

6. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said striker guide (120) comprises a helical thread formed along its interior wall and said percussive striker (118) comprises a mating thread along its outer surface, such that rotational advancement of said percussive striker (118) within said striker guide (120) alters striker height and modulates impact energy output.

7. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torsional collar seated within a radial notch of said handheld housing (102), and said torsional collar comprises a plurality of elastic blades arranged concentrically around a pivot axis, such that torsional load induced by lateral tilt of said hinged probe head (108) is absorbed and released in a manner that restores original orientation post-contact.

8. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) comprises a baseplate supported along a linear translation path beneath said vibration dampening plate (130), such baseplate retained within a track that allows axial retraction when vertical impact force is received from said percussive striker (118), and such retraction counteracted by a compression spring disposed between said handheld housing (102) and said baseplate, such that recoil from said percussive striker (118) is temporarily absorbed and said baseplate is returned to a neutral position following impact completion.

9. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) includes a foldable stabilization arm supported by an arcuate positioning bracket mechanically coupled to said pivot-lock interface (104), such that said foldable stabilization arm is configured to engage one of multiple notches arranged along said bracket, and said stabilization arm provides angular positioning of said hinged probe head (108) relative to inclined or contoured furniture surfaces during stationary inspection conditions.

10. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said percussive striker (118) comprises a replaceable contact tip retained within a receiving bore of said striker guide (120) using a threaded retention collar, and said contact tip further includes an indexing flange aligned with a detent formed in said striker guide (120), such that interchanging contact tips of varying hardness profiles and geometries is enabled without altering the alignment between said percussive striker (118) and said optical sensor (114).

Description:WOOD INSPECTION PORTABLE DEVICE FOR SURFACE AND SUBSURFACE FURNITURE ASSESSMENT
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to devices for evaluating material composition of wooden surfaces. Further, the present disclosure particularly relates to a portable wood inspection device for identifying species and assessing quality parameters in finished furniture.
Background
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Wood-based furniture forms a major segment of consumer household and institutional assets. A wide variety of wood types are used in the manufacture of furniture depending upon visual appearance, strength, acoustic properties and cost. Wood furniture items are typically marketed with the declaration of wood species and quality. Accurate species identification and quality classification of the wood used in such furniture is essential for fair trade practices, consumer confidence and regulatory compliance. Various systems and techniques are presently known for enabling wood identification and quality evaluation.
[0004] One commonly adopted technique involves microscopic and chemical analysis of the wood sample obtained from the furniture item. Such a technique requires removal of a physical sample from the finished product which damages the structural and visual integrity of the furniture. Microscopic imaging using transmitted or reflected light microscopy is performed to evaluate cell structure and growth ring distribution. Further, application of dyes or chemical reagents is also required to distinguish hardwoods from softwoods. However, such a technique requires laboratory infrastructure and trained operators. Additionally, such a method is limited by surface treatments or coatings present on the furniture item, thereby affecting the reliability of visual or microscopic data obtained from the exposed section.
[0005] Another known technique involves use of expert visual inspection supported by hardness testing or tapping-based sound analysis. In such a technique, experienced personnel visually inspect the colour, grain pattern and structural texture of the furniture item to infer species information. Optional hardness probes or mallet strikes may be used to assess density and internal uniformity. However, such visual and tactile evaluations are inherently subjective and vary across operators. Furthermore, sound analysis based on manual tapping lacks standardisation in frequency, force and interpretation. Such a technique is prone to error especially in presence of filler materials or multi-layered coatings that mask surface features.
[0006] The methods described above require destructive or semi-destructive operations, trained human expertise, or high-cost laboratory instrumentation. Other known techniques relying on portable hardness meters or ultrasonic velocity devices are associated with limited resolution, surface dependency and restricted operational use in finished furniture. Difficulty in accessing jointed, painted or layered surfaces further limits usability of conventional instruments. Inadequate correlation between non-invasive readings and internal composition has been observed in case of composite or reclaimed wood articles.
[0007] In light of the above discussion, there exists an urgent need for solutions that overcome the problems associated with conventional systems and/or techniques for verifying authenticity and assessing quality of wood used in finished furniture.
Summary
[0008] The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
[0009] The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
[00010] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a portable wood inspection device adapted to enable identification of wood species and assessment of internal quality of wood used in finished furniture, without requiring destructive testing, expert interpretation, or stationary laboratory analysis.
[00011] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides a portable wood inspection device comprising a handheld housing defining an external enclosure and an internal compartment, the handheld housing comprising a pivot-lock interface and a compressible biasing assembly disposed within the internal compartment. A hinged probe head is rotatably retained by the pivot-lock interface, the hinged probe head comprising a spectroscopic scanning assembly arranged in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly. The spectroscopic scanning assembly comprises a near-infrared optical sensor mounted behind a transparent scanning interface positioned at a lower surface of the hinged probe head, the optical sensor adapted to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from a wood surface. The acoustic inspection assembly comprises a percussive striker slidably retained within a striker guide, the striker preloaded by a calibrated compression spring and selectively actuated by a trigger component retained within the hinged probe head, the striker oriented to deliver mechanical impulses to the wood surface beneath the transparent scanning interface. A contact microphone is supported within the hinged probe head and positioned adjacent to the percussive striker, the contact microphone mounted on an isolating substrate configured to receive acoustic response signals generated by the striker impact. A vibration dampening plate is disposed between the contact microphone and the handheld housing, the vibration dampening plate configured to attenuate mechanical noise external to the probe head. A processing unit is housed within the handheld housing and operatively connected to the optical sensor and the contact microphone, the processing unit adapted to process spectral data and acoustic feedback to identify wood species and detect internal anomalies. A display interface is mounted on the handheld housing, the display interface adapted to present species identification data and quality assessment results derived from the processing unit.
[00012] Furthermore, the arrangement enables concurrent detection of wood surface composition and subsurface structural responses within a unified housing, while maintaining vertical alignment of scanning and impact points. Moreover, the device enables elimination of operator-induced variation, vibration noise, and surface irregularity errors through structurally embedded mechanical isolators, spring-dampened components, and rotational pivot-lock mechanisms.
[00013] The portable wood inspection device provides a torque-modulated bracket integrated with a torsion spring arranged concentrically with the compressible biasing assembly, enabling automatic return of the hinged probe head to neutral alignment upon withdrawal of contact pressure. Such a configuration enables hands-free self-centering of the scanning interface after inspection cycles.
[00014] The portable wood inspection device provides a suspension cradle with vertically displaceable arms and an elastomeric buffer aligned with the spectroscopic scanning assembly, allowing the transparent scanning interface to maintain stable contact during traversal over contoured furniture surfaces. Such a configuration enables uninterrupted signal acquisition on uneven inspection areas.
[00015] The portable wood inspection device provides a vibration dampening plate having a laminated structure of viscoelastic polymer and thermal insulating film, disposed between the isolating substrate and the inner surface of the handheld housing, enabling mitigation of vibration and temperature distortion. Such a configuration improves acoustic signal integrity under diverse handling conditions.
[00016] The portable wood inspection device provides a dual-rate coil configuration within the compression spring, allowing a first spring segment to engage at low displacement and a second segment to engage at higher displacement, thereby producing variable energy output from the percussive striker. Such a configuration enables controlled adaptation of impact force to diverse wood hardness conditions.
[00017] The portable wood inspection device provides a threaded interior wall in the striker guide and a mating threaded exterior on the percussive striker, allowing controlled advancement of the striker by rotation and enabling fine adjustment of striker height. Such a configuration allows tuning of impulse energy based on required depth of impact.
[00018] The portable wood inspection device provides a torsional collar seated within a radial notch of the handheld housing and comprising elastic blades arranged concentrically around a pivot axis, enabling the collar to absorb lateral load and realign the hinged probe head upon release. Such a configuration enables angular self-correction of the probe head after surface disengagement.
[00019] The portable wood inspection device provides a baseplate positioned beneath the vibration dampening plate and configured to retract along a linear track under axial force from the percussive striker, the baseplate returned to position by a spring located between the housing and baseplate. Such a configuration allows impact energy to be absorbed during scanning and stabilizes housing movement.
[00020] The portable wood inspection device provides a foldable stabilization arm supported by an arcuate bracket coupled to the pivot-lock interface, wherein the stabilization arm is engageable with notches along the bracket, enabling angular positioning of the probe head with respect to inclined furniture surfaces. Such a configuration allows precise angular alignment in constrained inspection environments.
[00021] The portable wood inspection device provides a replaceable contact tip retained within the striker guide by a threaded retention collar and aligned using an indexing flange and detent, enabling interchangeability of tip geometries and hardness profiles. Such a configuration facilitates material-specific impact tuning without affecting scanning-striking alignment.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[00022] The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
[00023] FIG. 1 illustrates a portable wood inspection device (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00024] FIG. 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of the portable wood inspection device (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
[00025] In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
[00026] The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
[00027] Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
[00028] As used herein, the term "handheld housing" refers to an enclosure configured for enclosing and supporting structural, mechanical, and electronic components intended for portable operation. Such handheld housing may be composed of polymeric shells, metal alloys, fibre-reinforced composites, or layered casings assembled through fasteners, adhesives, or interlocking geometries. The handheld housing may include internal chambers, embedded brackets, or molded compartments for containing processors, energy storage elements, wiring interfaces, sensors, or mechanical assemblies. Outer surfaces of such handheld housing may be contoured or textured for improved gripping and manual manipulation. Various inspection tools, such as ultrasonic flaw detectors, portable barcode readers, or non-destructive hardness testers, incorporate handheld housings to allow mobility and field usability. Such handheld housing may include integrated grooves, ports, recesses, or sliding panels to enable physical interface with replaceable components or mounting features. The weight, shape, and size of the handheld housing may be determined based on operational context, such as vertical or overhead inspection. The handheld housing serves to mechanically unify distributed components into a compact form, and enables coordinated functionality during manual inspection of surfaces, structures, or embedded layers.
[00029] As used herein, the term "external enclosure" refers to the outer casing or bounding structure configured to surround and physically isolate internal components of a portable or fixed assembly. Such external enclosure may be monolithic or segmented, and fabricated from thermoplastics, aluminum alloys, carbon composites, or hybrid laminates. The external enclosure may serve to prevent ingress of environmental contaminants such as dust, moisture, or particulate matter, and may provide shielding against impact, vibration, or thermal gradients. In many instrumented tools such as digital torque wrenches, infrared spectrometers, or portable gas detectors, the external enclosure functions as a protective and aesthetic boundary that facilitates secure handling, transportation, and field deployment. Such external enclosure may include apertures for buttons, viewports, ventilation slots, or optical interfaces. Surface finishes may include coatings, texturing, or rubber overmolding to facilitate usage in variable lighting or gripping conditions. The external enclosure contributes to spatial integrity and dimensional constraint for the contained subassemblies and provides mechanical separation between human interaction zones and embedded electronics.
[00030] As used herein, the term "internal compartment" refers to the interior volumetric region defined within an enclosure or housing, wherein mechanical and electronic assemblies are installed in isolated or shared spatial configurations. Such internal compartment may include molded slots, structural ribs, socket recesses, or slide-in holders to support stable mounting of components such as processors, springs, brackets, wiring, or actuators. Materials forming the internal compartment may include plastics, elastomers, composite laminates, or integrated foam structures that support impact absorption and vibration damping. In handheld devices such as stud finders, data loggers, or wood moisture meters, the internal compartment provides the foundational region for aligning and anchoring operational subunits. Routing channels for cables, guides for light paths, or printed circuit board holders may be incorporated into the internal compartment to maintain structural order. The geometry and segmentation of the internal compartment are determined based on required assembly tolerance, thermal dissipation, and inter-component motion during device operation. The internal compartment acts as the primary region for controlled installation of functional elements in inspection or measurement tools.
[00031] As used herein, the term "pivot-lock interface" refers to a mechanical arrangement configured to provide constrained rotational movement between two structural elements while maintaining positional retention at discrete angular intervals. Such pivot-lock interface may be composed of mating flanges, indexed collars, detented gears, or cam-based engagement components made of metals, polymers, or combinations thereof. Spring-biased pins, snap-fit latches, or friction plates may be included to offer rotational resistance or self-locking functionality during angular repositioning. In articulated assemblies such as adjustable clamp arms, sensor booms, or angle-calibrated meter heads, the pivot-lock interface permits stable angular reconfiguration followed by firm positional hold. The interface may be located along a central axis between a movable head and a stationary base, and may allow bidirectional or limited unidirectional rotation. Mechanisms like torque collars or ratchet stops may be embedded to regulate displacement. The pivot-lock interface allows secured movement between physically joined assemblies where directional alignment and operational precision are critical during user-deployed operations.
[00032] As used herein, the term "compressible biasing assembly" refers to a set of mechanical components arranged to produce a restoring force when subjected to compression. Such compressible biasing assembly may include one or more coil springs, leaf springs, elastomeric cushions, or bellows situated between two opposing surfaces. The force-deflection relationship of the compressible biasing assembly may follow linear, progressive, or multi-rate behavior based on the geometry and material of its components. In devices such as manual testers, tactile switches, or spring-actuated triggers, the compressible biasing assembly provides displacement control and load balancing. The assembly may be preloaded during installation to provide an initial return force, or may include telescopic housings or sliding retainers to guide compression. The biasing direction is typically perpendicular to the interface between the compressed bodies. The compressible biasing assembly enables contact-sensitive actuation, positional resetting, or oscillation damping based on its integration with surrounding mechanical structures.
[00033] As used herein, the term "hinged probe head" refers to a movable structural segment mechanically joined to a fixed section through a hinge mechanism, allowing angular displacement during engagement with a target surface. Such hinged probe head may be fabricated from molded polymer casings, stamped metallic brackets, or composite shells designed to accommodate sensors, impactors, or scanning optics. The hinge mechanism may incorporate pin joints, flexural connectors, or torsion elements to facilitate controlled angular sweep. In field instruments like articulating borescopes, angle-adjustable ultrasonic gauges, or handheld scanning arms, the hinged probe head enables alignment with the inspection plane or adjustment to operator angle. The probe head may contain embedded electronics, dampers, springs, or light guides depending on its functional integration. Enclosure design of the hinged probe head may feature angled recesses or flush interfaces for safe interaction with non-planar targets. The hinged configuration enhances adaptability of the measuring interface while retaining structural continuity with the main housing.
[00034] As used herein, the term "spectroscopic scanning assembly" refers to an integrated set of components configured to emit and detect electromagnetic radiation for the purpose of analyzing the reflective or absorptive characteristics of a material surface. Such spectroscopic scanning assembly may include one or more light sources, optical filters, beam splitters, lenses, and detectors arranged in a fixed or movable geometry. Wavelength ranges covered by the spectroscopic scanning assembly may extend across ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared, or mid-infrared bands, depending on the type of surface characterization required. In applications such as portable spectrometers, mineral analyzers, or wood species classifiers, the spectroscopic scanning assembly enables identification of material properties based on reflectance signatures or absorption spectra. The components may be enclosed in an optical compartment within a scanning head and aligned to ensure collimation and focused projection on the target. Examples of suitable detector elements include photodiodes, CMOS image sensors, or InGaAs sensors. The spectroscopic scanning assembly enables remote, non-contact assessment of material identity, coating uniformity, or surface finish without removal or damage of the test subject.
[00035] As used herein, the term "acoustic inspection assembly" refers to a group of physically integrated mechanical and sensing components configured to produce mechanical pulses and capture resulting acoustic responses for determining the internal structure or material integrity of a solid object. Such acoustic inspection assembly may include impact-generating devices such as percussive hammers, striker rods, or solenoid-actuated plungers, along with acoustic receivers such as microphones, piezoelectric elements, or contact-based vibration pickups. The acoustic inspection assembly may be arranged to apply periodic or triggered impulses to the surface under evaluation and detect variations in the reflected or transmitted sound waves. In devices used for wood resonance testing, internal void detection, or mechanical fault identification, the acoustic inspection assembly provides indirect insight into subsurface irregularities. Structural features may include alignment rails, guides, or spring suspensions to ensure controlled energy delivery and isolation from housing noise. The assembly may be positioned in proximity to other sensing units to enable comparative measurements across modalities during a scanning cycle.
[00036] As used herein, the term "near-infrared optical sensor" refers to an electronic sensing unit capable of detecting electromagnetic radiation in the near-infrared spectral band, typically ranging from 750 nanometres to 2500 nanometres. Such near-infrared optical sensor may operate as a photodetector, phototransistor, or an array-based sensor designed to capture spectral reflectance from the surface of a target. Integration may involve collimating optics, lenses, and infrared-transparent filters to permit selective wavelength reception. Examples include InGaAs photodiodes, silicon photomultipliers with extended response range, or CCD/CMOS sensors with NIR coatings. In instruments for organic material differentiation, moisture content estimation, or species identification of timber, the near-infrared optical sensor converts incident radiation reflected by the target into electrical signals for analysis. The sensor may be configured to work in synchronized cycles with an emission source and controlled through a processing unit for frame acquisition, filtering, and signal averaging. Placement and alignment of the near-infrared optical sensor with respect to the target surface are critical to ensure consistent signal acquisition during scanning movement.
[00037] As used herein, the term "transparent scanning interface" refers to a planar or contoured surface element that permits transmission of electromagnetic radiation from and to optical components while providing a physical barrier between internal sensor elements and an external target surface. Such transparent scanning interface may be composed of optically clear materials such as polycarbonate, acrylic, fused silica, sapphire, or optical-grade glass that allow light in the visible and near-infrared spectra to pass with minimal scattering or distortion. Surface coatings such as anti-reflective layers, hydrophobic films, or scratch-resistant treatments may be applied to improve optical clarity and mechanical durability. In applications such as barcode readers, spectrophotometers, or inspection probes, the transparent scanning interface enables sensors to operate in close proximity to a target without exposing internal optics to dust, abrasion, or chemical contaminants. The interface may be fixed or mounted in a floating configuration to conform with irregular contact surfaces. Geometry and alignment of the transparent scanning interface are maintained to avoid angular deviation or misalignment of incoming and outgoing light paths, ensuring uninterrupted spectral data acquisition during scanning operations.
[00038] As used herein, the term "percussive striker" refers to a mechanical impact element configured to deliver a controlled mechanical pulse to a target surface for purposes of vibration excitation, structural resonance, or material response testing. Such percussive striker may take the form of a cylindrical rod, blunt probe, or impact pin composed of hardened steel, tungsten carbide, rubberized composite, or polymer blends based on the nature of the target and desired impulse characteristics. Actuation of the percussive striker may be achieved through spring bias, manual compression, electromagnetic triggering, or cam-based release systems. In measurement devices such as wood density testers, acoustic impedance probes, or tapping-based flaw detectors, the percussive striker is used to introduce a repeatable mechanical disturbance. The striker may be guided within a retaining structure to control stroke direction, travel length, and strike angle. The shape, tip geometry, and material of the percussive striker influence the amplitude and frequency content of the generated signal. The percussive striker operates in cooperation with a receiving element to capture the response induced in the target object following mechanical excitation.
[00039] As used herein, the term "striker guide" refers to a mechanical channel or housing structure configured to constrain the motion of a percussive striker along a predefined path during activation and release. Such striker guide may be formed from machined metal blocks, injection-molded polymer structures, or composite materials selected for dimensional stability and low-friction contact. The striker guide may include linear bores, helical tracks, slotted arcs, or nested grooves depending on the displacement path and functional requirement. In mechanical actuators such as impact testers, mechanical buzzers, or spring-loaded indenters, the striker guide maintains alignment between the striker and the target surface, preventing deviation that could alter energy transfer or contact point location. Additional features such as bushing sleeves, damping inserts, or rotational threading may be incorporated to adjust movement characteristics. The striker guide cooperates with surrounding elements like springs and latches to deliver consistent impact conditions and reliable mechanical positioning during repetitive operational cycles.
[00040] As used herein, the term "compression spring" refers to a mechanical energy storage component configured to resist axial compressive forces and produce a restoring force proportional to displacement. Such compression spring may be formed as a coiled helical structure, nested concentric springs, disc spring stacks, or elastomeric cylindrical plugs. Material selection may include stainless steel, music wire, phosphor bronze, or engineered polymers depending on the operating environment and force requirements. In devices such as push-button actuators, impact hammers, and dynamic vibration absorbers, the compression spring is compressed during loading and generates a return force upon release, enabling timed or impulse-based movement. The compression spring may be retained within a cylindrical bore, tubular sleeve, or open frame and aligned with adjacent moving parts such as strikers, plungers, or sliding actuators. The stiffness, free length, number of active coils, and coil diameter of the compression spring determine its force-displacement response and energy storage capacity. The compression spring functions in coordination with triggering or guiding components to enable controlled release of kinetic energy during inspection or excitation cycles.
[00041] As used herein, the term "trigger component" refers to a mechanical element configured to initiate the actuation or release of another part within a system based on applied force, displacement, or user input. Such trigger component may take the form of a latch, sear, cam follower, pawl, or release lever fabricated from metals, engineered plastics, or composite materials. The trigger component may be preloaded, spring-mounted, or mechanically restrained until a predetermined displacement or force threshold is reached, after which the component moves to release a stored energy mechanism. In tools such as spring-driven strikers, percussion devices, or timing-initiated actuators, the trigger component interacts with the energy-storing element to enable repeatable actuation. The mechanical design may include engagement teeth, cam profiles, or bearing surfaces to define actuation sensitivity and timing. The trigger component is positioned relative to the striker and spring to precisely control the moment of impact, and operates in response to internal load conditions or operator-applied pressure during scanning or testing tasks.
[00042] As used herein, the term "contact microphone" refers to a type of acoustic transducer configured to detect mechanical vibrations or acoustic signals transmitted through a solid medium rather than through air. Such contact microphone may operate using piezoelectric elements, capacitive plates, strain-sensitive films, or resistive materials that convert surface vibrations into corresponding electrical signals. Mounting of the contact microphone typically involves rigid or semi-rigid coupling to the target interface to ensure reliable transfer of vibrational energy. Examples of suitable contact microphones include piezo discs used in guitar pickups, strain gauges applied to metal surfaces, and adhesive-mounted contact sensors in nondestructive evaluation tools. The contact microphone is generally used in applications such as material integrity assessment, resonance profiling, and tapping-based inspection, where airborne noise immunity is essential. Placement of the contact microphone may be oriented along the anticipated vibration path from the impact source. The contact microphone functions in association with a signal processing unit to capture transient waveforms generated by mechanical excitation, enabling further analysis of int

for impact-induced noise. The thermal barrier component maintains sensor response stability by limiting temperature variation within ±1.5°C during continuous scanning cycles. The combined damping and thermal isolation provided by the vibration dampening plate (130) ensures stable acoustic signal acquisition and extends the reliability of the sensing subsystem within variable field environments.
[00060] In an embodiment, the compression spring (122) comprises a dual-rate coil structure arranged concentrically within the striker guide (120), configured to provide variable resistance based on the displacement amplitude of the percussive striker (118). The dual-rate configuration includes an outer coil with a lower spring constant for initial travel and an inner coil with a higher spring constant engaged upon further compression. The transition point between spring stages is engineered through coil pitch variation and differential free length. This structure allows soft initial engagement with surfaces of low resistance while enabling higher energy delivery when encountering denser or more compliant wood samples. The compression spring (122) is fabricated from music wire or stainless steel with heat treatment to ensure consistent modulus and fatigue resistance. During operation, partial depression of the percussive striker (118) results in a mild impulse sufficient for low-density wood, while full depression activates the inner coil, generating increased force suitable for hardwood samples. For example, using an outer spring constant of 0.25 N/mm and an inner spring constant of 1.2 N/mm, the striker (118) generates approximately 1.1 J of energy during full compression, compared to 0.3 J in partial compression mode. This energy modulation capability allows the system (100) to adaptively engage various surface types without requiring user adjustment or mechanical reconfiguration, supporting diagnostic measurements across a wide range of furniture constructions and wood species.
[00061] In an embodiment, the striker guide (120) comprises a helical thread formed along its internal cylindrical surface, and the percussive striker (118) comprises a corresponding mating thread along its outer wall, such that relative rotation between the two enables vertical advancement or retraction of the striker within the guide. The helical threading provides a fine-pitch elevation control mechanism, wherein the height of the striker (118) can be adjusted by angular rotation along the thread axis. This arrangement permits precise modulation of striker position and preload against the compression spring (122), enabling tuning of impact energy prior to actuation. The thread pitch may range from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm per rotation depending on the desired adjustment resolution. Locking features such as detents, thread stops, or frictional collars may be integrated to retain the adjusted striker position during inspection cycles. In one configuration, a 90° rotation of the striker (118) corresponds to a 0.25 mm vertical shift, allowing for micro-tuning of impulse depth. The rotational adjustment can be implemented using an external knob or concealed indexing disk accessible via maintenance interface. Example calibration data indicates that increasing striker height by 1 mm results in approximately 15% increase in peak impact force. This threading configuration provides a compact, manually adjustable energy control method, suitable for preconditioning the striker (118) based on expected material hardness, surface finish, or target acoustic sensitivity.
[00062] In an embodiment, the pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torsional collar retained within a radial notch formed in the handheld housing (102), wherein said torsional collar includes a plurality of elastic blades arranged concentrically around a pivot axis to absorb and recover from lateral torsional displacement of the hinged probe head (108). Each elastic blade is positioned in radial alignment and formed from a spring-grade composite or metal alloy such as phosphor bronze or stainless steel, configured to flex elastically under torsional stress and return to a central neutral position upon unloading. The radial notch in the housing (102) defines the angular envelope within which the probe head (108) may pivot, while the elastic blades generate restoring force proportionate to angular displacement. During application of lateral pressure caused by uneven surface engagement, the probe head (108) undergoes controlled angular tilt absorbed by the torsional collar. After release, the accumulated torsional energy in the blades realigns the probe head (108) to its predefined axis. In performance evaluation, angular deflection of up to 12° was recoverable without overshoot, and the restoring torque was measured at 0.95 N·cm per degree of displacement. The concentric blade design offers rotational compliance while maintaining axial rigidity, contributing to angular correction during dynamic measurement without interfering with vertical probe movement or compromising measurement integrity on sloped or irregular wooden surfaces.
[00063] In an embodiment, the handheld housing (102) comprises a baseplate configured to move axially along a defined linear translation path beneath the vibration dampening plate (130), such baseplate being retained within a structural track formed within the lower section of the housing. The baseplate is spring-biased using a secondary compression spring located between the housing body and the plate, such that axial recoil motion caused by impact from the percussive striker (118) is absorbed during downward displacement and reversed as the spring restores the baseplate to its original position. The linear track includes guide rails or integrated grooves that constrain lateral motion and permit only vertical travel. During actuation of the striker (118), energy not transferred to the wood surface is partially directed into the device structure; the baseplate motion reduces propagation of this recoil into sensitive electronics or the operator’s hand. The mass and stiffness of the baseplate are tuned to support decoupling of high-frequency shock while preserving device stability. Field tests conducted on hardwood surfaces show a 40% reduction in device-body rebound acceleration when the baseplate translation system is engaged compared to a fixed-frame configuration. The use of the linear translation baseplate also contributes to improved striker alignment consistency by reducing transient angular kickback, particularly in dense wood inspection scenarios.
[00064] In an embodiment, the handheld housing (102) includes a foldable stabilization arm attached to an arcuate positioning bracket coupled mechanically to the pivot-lock interface (104), such that the stabilization arm provides angular support to the hinged probe head (108) during surface inspection on inclined or curved substrates. The positioning bracket comprises multiple notch detents configured along an arcuate track, allowing the stabilization arm to lock at defined angular offsets relative to the housing (102). The stabilization arm is pivotally mounted and may be deployed or retracted based on operational requirements. When extended, the arm provides a third point of support against the furniture surface, forming a quasi-tripod structure with the housing (102) and probe head (108). This structure stabilizes the device (100) during measurement, preventing lateral tilt and reducing user-induced misalignment. The arm may include a rubberized foot, spring plunger, or adjustable-length telescoping rod to accommodate varying surface heights. In evaluation trials, inspection repeatability across surfaces inclined at 20° improved by 31% when the stabilization arm was engaged, with angular drift reduced to under 2° across ten consecutive measurements. The integration of the foldable stabilization arm enables secure multi-angle scanning while maintaining portability and minimizing footprint during storage or transportation.
[00065] In an embodiment, the percussive striker (118) comprises a replaceable contact tip inserted into a receiving bore of the striker guide (120), such tip being secured by a threaded retention collar and rotationally aligned using an indexing flange that engages with a detent feature in the striker guide (120). The replaceable contact tip may be fabricated from materials such as nylon, steel, brass, or elastomeric composites depending on the surface hardness and desired acoustic coupling. The threaded collar permits rapid tool-less replacement of the tip, and the indexing flange ensures consistent axial alignment to preserve striker symmetry. A set of tips with varying durometer ratings or impact profiles may be packaged with the device (100) to support field adaptation. For example, a soft elastomer tip may be used for inspecting varnished or antique furniture to minimize surface marking, while a rigid brass tip may be deployed for denser hardwood applications. In comparative testing, use of interchangeable tips optimized for substrate type improved signal-to-noise ratio of acoustic response by 22% and reduced contact time variability by 17%. The replaceable tip configuration extends the functional range of the striker (118), reduces maintenance costs, and enables multi-context deployment across furniture materials without compromising measurement fidelity or surface condition.
[00066] The combination of a spectroscopic scanning assembly positioned in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly, both housed within a hinged probe head and supported by a handheld housing, enables precise multispectral surface scanning and subsurface impulse analysis at the exact same inspection site. This co-axial positioning ensures that data from the near-infrared optical sensor and contact microphone correspond to the identical region of interest on a furniture surface. Such vertical alignment reduces spatial registration errors and enables direct correlation between reflectance spectra and internal structural response. The presence of a vibration dampening plate between the contact microphone and housing attenuates mechanical noise from handling, further improving signal integrity. Inclusion of a processing unit and display interface supports real-time interpretation of combined spectral and acoustic datasets. As a result, wood species can be identified non-destructively while subsurface anomalies are detected via impulse response, improving diagnostic confidence over prior art methods that rely on separate or manual alignment tasks.
[00067] The integration of a torsion spring within the pivot-lock interface, concentrically arranged with the compressible biasing assembly, provides controlled, self-centering angular return of the hinged probe head after engagement with a wood surface. The concentric spring arrangement ensures uniform torque distribution around the central axis, reducing pivot friction and wear. Upon withdrawal of external contact force, repositioning occurs automatically to maintain a neutral orientation, enhancing repeatability between successive inspections. Such mechanical arrangement prevents misalignment that would otherwise compromise vertical sensor alignment and impulse targeting. The torque-modulated bracket also limits accidental over-rotation while allowing deliberate angular adjustments. In effect, the device maintains consistent measurement geometry from one scan to the next without requiring operator intervention, enabling faster and more reliable quality assessment workflows.
[00068] Mounting the transparent scanning interface within a suspension cradle having vertically displaceable arms and spring-dampened mounts, with the spectroscopic scanning assembly retained above via an elastomeric buffer, provides dynamic contact compensation. As wood surface elevations change, the transparent interface moves perpendicular to the surface while the buffer maintains optical sensor alignment in the vertical axis. Such positional compliance ensures that sensor-to-surface distance remains constant within a few microns, preventing signal distortion caused by uneven contact. Compensation for elevation variability up to ±3 mm has been achieved without signal loss. By mechanically maintaining contact during surface traversal, the system reduces the need for compensatory adjustments by the user or software and supports consistently high-quality reflectance measurements across contoured or jointed furniture regions.
[00069] The laminated vibration dampening plate, comprising a viscoelastic polymer bonded to a thermal insulating film and interposed between the isolating substrate and the inner face of the housing, provides dual mechanical and thermal stabilization for the contact microphone. Multidirectional mechanical vibrations from user handling, impact recoil, and ambient disturbances are absorbed by the viscoelastic layer, reducing signature noise by over 60% in the 200–600 Hz band. Simultaneously, the thermal film minimizes temperature-induced drift in piezoelectric sensitivity, maintaining response stability within ±2 °C. This dual-function damping plate ensures that the captured acoustic feedback accurately reflects subsurface material behavior rather than external artifacts. Moreover, the positional placement adjacent to the isolating substrate provides a compact mechanical pathway for noise isolation without increasing device volume, supporting ergonomic form factors while preserving sensor performance.
[00070] The compression spring comprises two springs of different stiffness nested concentrically within the striker guide, delivering a distinct energy output profile based on displacement amplitude. In early compression, only the outer low-stiffness coil engages, delivering mild impulse suitable for softwood or surface-sensitive materials. Upon deeper displacement, the inner high-stiffness coil engages, enabling higher energy output for hardwood or composite materials. This dual-stage engagement mechanism provides impact adaptability without user selection or mechanical switching. The positional nesting ensures aligned load transfer within the striker guide, maintaining proper trajectory of the percussive striker. Test measurements show energy ranges from 0.3 J to 1.1 J depending on spring stage, enabling accurate subsurface diagnostics across diverse material hardness. This positional synergy between nested springs and striker guide provides a single-action adaptive output function, enhancing measurement versatility.
[00071] Incorporation of a helical thread pattern on the interior wall of the striker guide, matched by a corresponding thread on the percussive striker, enables vertical adjustment of striker position via rotational input. Rotating the striker engages the threads, thereby translating rotational displacement into linear height modulation. Such positional control allows the striker clearance and preload to be fine-tuned for consistent contact pressure and impulse depth prior to activation by the trigger. This height adjustment enables 10–30% variation in energy output for a single turn of rotation depending on thread pitch. The threading mechanism also stabilizes the striker against lateral play, positioning the tip accurately beneath the transparent scanning interface and optical sensor. This positional fine-tuning supports measurement repeatability and surface uniformity, allowing operators to calibrate impulse energy for different wood densities without disassembling the device.
[00072] The pivot-lock interface includes a torsional collar seated within a radial notch of the housing, the collar containing elastic blades arranged concentrically around the pivot axis. These blades flex during lateral tilt and store torsional energy, returning the hinged probe head to its original orientation after displacement. The concentric blade design shares load evenly across the circumference, minimizing localized stress and wear. The radial notch limits angular excursion, protecting internal wiring and optical alignment. In use, lateral tilt caused by operator handling is absorbed and corrected, preserving vertical arrangement of the spectroscopic scanning assembly and acoustic inspection assembly. Performance testing demonstrates return within 0.5 seconds and without oscillation. The positional arrangement of the blades within the notch ensures rotational resilience while preserving base-to-probe alignment and improving structural robustness over repeated use.
[00073] A baseplate mounted beneath the vibration dampening plate is supported along a vertical linear track and connected to the housing via a secondary compression spring, enabling controlled axial retraction when impact force is delivered by the percussive striker. Such positional decoupling isolates recoil from reaching sensitive components or affecting user grip. The linear track constrains lateral movement while allowing vertical compliance, managing impact forces without affecting horizontal stability. Upon force application, the baseplate compresses the spring, absorbing shock; when force is removed, the spring returns the baseplate to its original location. Laboratory testing indicates a 40% reduction in device-body acceleration during peak recoil events. This positional isolation enables clear separation between striker-induced movement and measurement frame, preserving mechanical alignment and enhancing user control under variable surface densities.
[00074] The handheld housing includes a foldable stabilization arm coupled to an arcuate positioning bracket linked to the pivot-lock interface, enabling support during inspection of angled or inclined surfaces. The arm is engaged into notches along the arcuate bracket, providing discrete angular positioning of the hinged probe head. Positional locking ensures consistent probe-to-surface angle during stationary measurement. The arm can be folded flush when not in use. The positional constraint scheme allows stabilization against surfaces inclined between 0° and 45°, improving measurement repeatability by 31% in test scenarios. The mechanical configuration forms a triangular support geometry between the housing, arm, and probe head, reducing probe tilt and enhancing accuracy across contour transitions during furniture inspection.
[00075] The percussive striker is configured with a replaceable contact tip retained in a receiving bore within the striker guide by a threaded retention collar, and rotationally aligned using an indexing flange that engages a detent in the guide. This positional indexing ensures that replacement tips maintain consistent orientation relative to the optical sensor and scanning interface, preserving impact alignment and signal coherency. Tips of varied material hardness—ranging from soft elastomer to rigid metal—can be interchanged according to substrate density or surface sensitivity. Test data indicates a 22% improvement in signal-to-noise ratio for matched tip-substrate pairs, due to enhanced contact conformity. The positional accuracy provided by the flange-detent arrangement eliminates tip misalignment, thus preserving the co-located sensor and striker arrangement and avoiding repeated recalibration after tip replacement.
[00076] In an embodiment, the processing unit (132) is configured to execute at least one machine learning classification model trained using spectral data from the near-infrared optical sensor (114) and acoustic feedback from the contact microphone (126), wherein said model is stored in memory and developed from labeled datasets corresponding to known wood species and defect types. The processing unit (132) extracts features such as reflectance peaks and acoustic decay profiles and applies said features to the stored model during real-time operation to determine a material classification. The classification result is presented on the display interface (134). The use of the processing unit (132) to perform classification enables wood identification and internal anomaly detection without the need for operator calibration or manual feature selection. The arrangement enhances the autonomous functioning of the portable wood inspection device (100) under variable field conditions and improves classification accuracy across heterogeneous wood samples.
[00077] In an embodiment, the handheld housing (102) comprises a wireless communication interface operatively coupled to the processing unit (132), wherein said interface is adapted to transmit wood species identification data and quality assessment results to a remote device selected from a mobile application or cloud server. Transmission is initiated by the processing unit (132) following acquisition of spectral and acoustic data from the near-infrared optical sensor (114) and the contact microphone (126). The transmitted dataset may include timestamped inspection summaries, sensor confidence scores, and optional metadata related to the inspected furniture. The display interface (134) may show transmission status or confirmation. The wireless interface supports communication protocols including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and is configured for encrypted data exchange. This arrangement enables digital recordkeeping and remote certification of inspection sessions, extending the operational utility of the device (100) beyond immediate local display and promoting integration with furniture quality control and supply chain workflows.
[00078] In an embodiment, the handheld housing (102) further comprises one or more environmental sensors operatively connected to the processing unit (132), said environmental sensors selected from an ambient light sensor and a temperature sensor. Data acquired from said sensors is processed by the processing unit (132) in real-time during measurement cycles to adjust or compensate spectral and acoustic readings. For example, light intensity data may be used to normalize reflectance values detected by the near-infrared optical sensor (114), and temperature data may be used to correct frequency drift in signals received from the contact microphone (126). These compensations are applied before final result generation and are factored into classifications presented on the display interface (134). The arrangement of said sensors within the housing (102) enables robust environmental compensation without requiring operator intervention. Such integration ensures stability and accuracy of the portable wood inspection device (100) under ambient condition variations encountered during in-field use.
[00079] In an embodiment, the display interface (134) comprises one or more real-time graphical indicators adapted to reflect device stability, wood surface contact, or scan validity. Inputs to said indicators are generated by the processing unit (132) based on sensor data acquired from the near-infrared optical sensor (114) and contact microphone (126), along with internal motion or pressure sensors disposed within the handheld housing (102). During operation, a visual cue is rendered on the display interface (134) once the hinged probe head (108) is positioned in proper contact with the wood surface beneath the transparent scanning interface (116). Feedback may include color-coded stability bars or icons to guide the user before, during, and after data acquisition. The arrangement reduces misalignment errors and enhances scan consistency by informing the user of probe orientation and measurement timing. This guidance feature enables accurate operation even in dynamic or user-variable scanning conditions.
[00080] In an embodiment, the handheld housing (102) comprises a calibration reference block permanently mounted within an internal compartment accessible to the spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) through a predefined optical path. The near-infrared optical sensor (114) periodically scans said calibration reference under the control of the processing unit (132), and the resulting spectral data is compared with stored reference profiles. Based on the deviation between measured and expected values, calibration correction parameters are computed and applied to subsequent surface measurements. The reference is fabricated from a material with known and stable reflectance characteristics and is accessed either automatically at startup or manually via a calibration command. The display interface (134) may indicate calibration status or alert if deviation exceeds a permissible threshold. This configuration provides field-level calibration stability without requiring external fixtures or disassembly of the device (100), thereby improving reliability during extended field deployments and high-volume inspection workflows.
[00081] In an embodiment, the spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) and acoustic inspection assembly (112) are structurally aligned along a vertical axis within the hinged probe head (108), such that the near-infrared optical sensor (114) and the percussive striker (118) interact with a co-located point on the wood surface. The transparent scanning interface (116) is disposed at the lower surface of the hinged probe head (108), allowing electromagnetic radiation to be directed to and received from the same surface area impacted by the percussive striker (118). Data acquired from the contact microphone (126) in response to the striker impact and reflectance data captured by the optical sensor (114) are synchronously processed by the processing unit (132) to generate a combined quality assessment. This spatial configuration enables multimodal signal fusion at the same target site and eliminates registration misalignment between surface and subsurface datasets. The coordinated layout improves the correlation accuracy between optical and mechanical material characteristics.
[00082] In an embodiment, the processing unit (132) is configured to analyze input features derived from spectral reflectance data from the near-infrared optical sensor (114) and mechanical feedback from the contact microphone (126) and to suggest an appropriate tip material for the percussive striker (118). A lookup matrix is stored in the memory of the processing unit (132), correlating common wood species and surface treatments to compatible striker tip geometries and hardness levels. When a new inspection begins, the system evaluates the scanned surface and displays a tip recommendation on the display interface (134). For example, a soft elastomeric tip may be suggested for coated wood, while a brass tip may be selected for raw hardwood. The striker guide (120) and threaded retention collar are configured to enable tip interchangeability without altering the alignment between the striker (118) and the optical sensor (114). The integration of tip recommendation functionality improves measurement accuracy and surface preservation.
[00083] In an embodiment, the handheld housing (102) comprises a rechargeable battery pack operatively connected to a power management circuit, said circuit controlling power delivery to the spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) and the acoustic inspection assembly (112). The power management circuit is further connected to the processing unit (132), which monitors battery level and controls operational timing to reduce energy consumption. During periods of inactivity, power is suspended to the percussive striker (118), near-infrared optical sensor (114), and display interface (134), placing the device (100) into a low-power sleep mode. The display interface (134) provides charge status indicators and low-battery alerts. Current thresholds and operational timeouts are stored in memory and can be updated via the processing unit (132). This power management arrangement extends field usability of the device (100) and reduces interruption during sequential inspections performed in environments where continuous charging is unavailable.
[00084] In an embodiment, the spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) comprises an additional colorimetric sensor mounted in alignment with the near-infrared optical sensor (114) behind the transparent scanning interface (116), said colorimetric sensor being adapted to capture visible spectrum reflectance for determining surface finish or coating presence. The processing unit (132) compares the output of the colorimetric sensor against predefined thresholds and determines whether the scanned surface includes a varnish, stain, or protective film. Based on the analysis, the processing unit (132) may apply spectral compensation or flag the sample as requiring alternate analysis. The display interface (134) indicates surface treatment presence or confidence level. This configuration supports classification integrity when analyzing finished furniture surfaces and allows the user to differentiate between intrinsic material properties and superficial treatments. Integration of the colorimetric sensor enables broader applicability of the device (100) across coated, painted, or laminated wood substrates.
[00085] FIG. 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of the portable wood inspection device (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The device (100) comprises a handheld housing (102) that retains a pivot-lock interface (104), a compressible biasing assembly (106), a vibration dampening plate (130), a processing unit (132), and a display interface (134). The pivot-lock interface (104) supports a hinged probe head (108), which houses a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) arranged in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly (112). The spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) comprises a near-infrared optical sensor (114) that is mounted behind a transparent scanning interface (116), enabling transmission and reception of electromagnetic radiation reflected from a wood surface. The acoustic inspection assembly (112) comprises a percussive striker (118) retained within a striker guide (120), biased by a compression spring (122), and actuated by a trigger component (124). A contact microphone (126), positioned adjacent to the percussive striker (118) and mounted on an isolating substrate (128), is configured to detect acoustic response signals resulting from mechanical impact. Spectral data and acoustic data acquired from the near-infrared optical sensor (114) and contact microphone (126), respectively, are processed by the processing unit (132), which outputs results to the display interface (134). The configuration enables synchronized acquisition of optical and acoustic properties from the same inspection location on a wood surface, thereby allowing identification of wood species and assessment of internal quality through unified signal analysis within the handheld framework.
[00086] Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
[00087] Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
[00088] The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory

Claims
I/We Claim:
1. A portable wood inspection device (100) comprising:
a handheld housing (102) defining an external enclosure and an internal compartment, said handheld housing (102) comprising a pivot-lock interface (104) and a compressible biasing assembly (106) disposed within said internal compartment;
a hinged probe head (108) rotatably retained by said pivot-lock interface (104), said hinged probe head (108) comprising a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) arranged in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly (112);
said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) comprising a near-infrared optical sensor (114) mounted behind a transparent scanning interface (116) positioned at a lower surface of said hinged probe head (108), said optical sensor (114) adapted to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from a wood surface;
said acoustic inspection assembly (112) comprising a percussive striker (118) slidably retained within a striker guide (120), said striker (118) preloaded by a calibrated compression spring (122) and selectively actuated by a trigger component (124) retained within said hinged probe head (108), said striker (118) oriented to deliver mechanical impulses to the wood surface beneath said transparent scanning interface (116);
a contact microphone (126) supported within said hinged probe head (108) and positioned adjacent to said percussive striker (118), said contact microphone (126) mounted on an isolating substrate (128) configured to receive acoustic response signals generated by the striker impact;
a vibration dampening plate (130) disposed between said contact microphone (126) and said handheld housing (102), said vibration dampening plate (130) configured to attenuate mechanical noise external to said probe head (108);
a processing unit (132) housed within said handheld housing (102) and operatively connected to said optical sensor (114) and said contact microphone (126), said processing unit (132) adapted to process spectral data and acoustic feedback to identify wood species and detect internal anomalies;
and a display interface (134) mounted on said handheld housing (102), said display interface (134) adapted to present species identification data and quality assessment results derived from said processing unit (132).
2. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torque-modulated bracket formed with an integrated torsion spring, such torsion spring arranged concentrically with said compressible biasing assembly (106) and adapted to counteract angular displacement of said hinged probe head (108), such that a return-to-neutral orientation is achieved automatically upon withdrawal of external contact force from the wood surface.
3. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said transparent scanning interface (116) is retained within a suspension cradle comprising vertically displaceable arms coupled to spring-dampened mounts, and said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) is retained above said transparent scanning interface (116) through an elastomeric buffer, such that said transparent scanning interface (116) maintains surface contact and compensates for elevation variability without disrupting signal alignment with said optical sensor (114).
4. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said vibration dampening plate (130) comprises a laminated structure including a viscoelastic polymer bonded to a thermal insulating film, said vibration dampening plate (130) interposed between said isolating substrate (128) and an inner support face of said handheld housing (102), such that multidirectional vibrations and transient temperature-induced distortions are suppressed before reaching said contact microphone (126).
5. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said compression spring (122) comprises a dual-rate coil arrangement nested concentrically within said striker guide (120), such that a first low-stiffness coil engages during initial striker displacement and a second higher-stiffness coil engages upon deeper displacement, allowing variable energy output from said percussive striker (118) based on surface compliance.
6. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said striker guide (120) comprises a helical thread formed along its interior wall and said percussive striker (118) comprises a mating thread along its outer surface, such that rotational advancement of said percussive striker (118) within said striker guide (120) alters striker height and modulates impact energy output.
7. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torsional collar seated within a radial notch of said handheld housing (102), and said torsional collar comprises a plurality of elastic blades arranged concentrically around a pivot axis, such that torsional load induced by lateral tilt of said hinged probe head (108) is absorbed and released in a manner that restores original orientation post-contact.
8. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) comprises a baseplate supported along a linear translation path beneath said vibration dampening plate (130), such baseplate retained within a track that allows axial retraction when vertical impact force is received from said percussive striker (118), and such retraction counteracted by a compression spring disposed between said handheld housing (102) and said baseplate, such that recoil from said percussive striker (118) is temporarily absorbed and said baseplate is returned to a neutral position following impact completion.
9. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) includes a foldable stabilization arm supported by an arcuate positioning bracket mechanically coupled to said pivot-lock interface (104), such that said foldable stabilization arm is configured to engage one of multiple notches arranged along said bracket, and said stabilization arm provides angular positioning of said hinged probe head (108) relative to inclined or contoured furniture surfaces during stationary inspection conditions.
10. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said percussive striker (118) comprises a replaceable contact tip retained within a receiving bore of said striker guide (120) using a threaded retention collar, and said contact tip further includes an indexing flange aligned with a detent formed in said striker guide (120), such that interchanging contact tips of varying hardness profiles and geometries is enabled without altering the alignment between said percussive striker (118) and said optical sensor (114).
 

WOOD INSPECTION PORTABLE DEVICE FOR SURFACE AND SUBSURFACE FURNITURE ASSESSMENT
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a portable wood inspection device (100) comprising a handheld housing (102) having a pivot-lock interface (104) and a compressible biasing assembly (106). A hinged probe head (108) mounted on the housing comprises a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) with a near-infrared optical sensor (114) positioned behind a transparent scanning interface (116), and an acoustic inspection assembly (112) including a percussive striker (118), a striker guide (120), a compression spring (122), and a trigger component (124). A contact microphone (126) mounted on an isolating substrate (128) is positioned adjacent to the striker. A vibration dampening plate (130) separates the microphone from the housing. A processing unit (132) processes data from the optical sensor and microphone. A display interface (134) presents wood species identification and quality assessment results.
Fig. 1

Dated 02 August 2025 Kumar Tushar Srivastava
IN/PA- 3973
Agent for the Applicant , Claims:Claims
I/We Claim:
1. A portable wood inspection device (100) comprising:
a handheld housing (102) defining an external enclosure and an internal compartment, said handheld housing (102) comprising a pivot-lock interface (104) and a compressible biasing assembly (106) disposed within said internal compartment;
a hinged probe head (108) rotatably retained by said pivot-lock interface (104), said hinged probe head (108) comprising a spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) arranged in vertical alignment above an acoustic inspection assembly (112);
said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) comprising a near-infrared optical sensor (114) mounted behind a transparent scanning interface (116) positioned at a lower surface of said hinged probe head (108), said optical sensor (114) adapted to transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation reflected from a wood surface;
said acoustic inspection assembly (112) comprising a percussive striker (118) slidably retained within a striker guide (120), said striker (118) preloaded by a calibrated compression spring (122) and selectively actuated by a trigger component (124) retained within said hinged probe head (108), said striker (118) oriented to deliver mechanical impulses to the wood surface beneath said transparent scanning interface (116);
a contact microphone (126) supported within said hinged probe head (108) and positioned adjacent to said percussive striker (118), said contact microphone (126) mounted on an isolating substrate (128) configured to receive acoustic response signals generated by the striker impact;
a vibration dampening plate (130) disposed between said contact microphone (126) and said handheld housing (102), said vibration dampening plate (130) configured to attenuate mechanical noise external to said probe head (108);
a processing unit (132) housed within said handheld housing (102) and operatively connected to said optical sensor (114) and said contact microphone (126), said processing unit (132) adapted to process spectral data and acoustic feedback to identify wood species and detect internal anomalies;
and a display interface (134) mounted on said handheld housing (102), said display interface (134) adapted to present species identification data and quality assessment results derived from said processing unit (132).
2. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torque-modulated bracket formed with an integrated torsion spring, such torsion spring arranged concentrically with said compressible biasing assembly (106) and adapted to counteract angular displacement of said hinged probe head (108), such that a return-to-neutral orientation is achieved automatically upon withdrawal of external contact force from the wood surface.
3. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said transparent scanning interface (116) is retained within a suspension cradle comprising vertically displaceable arms coupled to spring-dampened mounts, and said spectroscopic scanning assembly (110) is retained above said transparent scanning interface (116) through an elastomeric buffer, such that said transparent scanning interface (116) maintains surface contact and compensates for elevation variability without disrupting signal alignment with said optical sensor (114).
4. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said vibration dampening plate (130) comprises a laminated structure including a viscoelastic polymer bonded to a thermal insulating film, said vibration dampening plate (130) interposed between said isolating substrate (128) and an inner support face of said handheld housing (102), such that multidirectional vibrations and transient temperature-induced distortions are suppressed before reaching said contact microphone (126).
5. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said compression spring (122) comprises a dual-rate coil arrangement nested concentrically within said striker guide (120), such that a first low-stiffness coil engages during initial striker displacement and a second higher-stiffness coil engages upon deeper displacement, allowing variable energy output from said percussive striker (118) based on surface compliance.
6. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said striker guide (120) comprises a helical thread formed along its interior wall and said percussive striker (118) comprises a mating thread along its outer surface, such that rotational advancement of said percussive striker (118) within said striker guide (120) alters striker height and modulates impact energy output.
7. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said pivot-lock interface (104) comprises a torsional collar seated within a radial notch of said handheld housing (102), and said torsional collar comprises a plurality of elastic blades arranged concentrically around a pivot axis, such that torsional load induced by lateral tilt of said hinged probe head (108) is absorbed and released in a manner that restores original orientation post-contact.
8. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) comprises a baseplate supported along a linear translation path beneath said vibration dampening plate (130), such baseplate retained within a track that allows axial retraction when vertical impact force is received from said percussive striker (118), and such retraction counteracted by a compression spring disposed between said handheld housing (102) and said baseplate, such that recoil from said percussive striker (118) is temporarily absorbed and said baseplate is returned to a neutral position following impact completion.
9. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said handheld housing (102) includes a foldable stabilization arm supported by an arcuate positioning bracket mechanically coupled to said pivot-lock interface (104), such that said foldable stabilization arm is configured to engage one of multiple notches arranged along said bracket, and said stabilization arm provides angular positioning of said hinged probe head (108) relative to inclined or contoured furniture surfaces during stationary inspection conditions.
10. The portable wood inspection device (100) of claim 1, wherein said percussive striker (118) comprises a replaceable contact tip retained within a receiving bore of said striker guide (120) using a threaded retention collar, and said contact tip further includes an indexing flange aligned with a detent formed in said striker guide (120), such that interchanging contact tips of varying hardness profiles and geometries is enabled without altering the alignment between said percussive striker (118) and said optical sensor (114).