Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present invention relates to the field of non-destructive testing (NDT) and, more specifically, to a phased array wheel probe system for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks.

BACKGROUND
[002] 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 disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[003] Ultrasonic non-destructive testing (NDT) is a widely used technology in the rail industry for detecting defects such as cracks, corrosion, and wear within the rail structure. The primary advantage of ultrasonic testing is that it allows for the inspection of rail tracks without damaging them, ensuring that any internal flaws can be detected and addressed before they lead to failures.
[004] Traditional ultrasonic inspection systems typically use a rolling search unit (USU) mounted on an inspection trolley that moves along the rail. The USU houses multiple single-angle transducers, which emit ultrasonic waves that interact with the rail surface. These transducers are fixed at specific angles, and each one is responsible for inspecting a designated area of the rail, such as the rail head, rail web, or base.
[005] While the traditional USU systems have been successful in inspecting the rail tracks, they come with several limitations. One of the primary drawbacks is that the transducers are fixed at specific angles relative to the rail. This fixed setup restricts the system's ability to detect defects outside the designated inspection zones or those oriented at unusual angles. Defects that fall outside the beam's coverage or have an unconventional orientation may not reflect the ultrasonic signals as intended, leading to undetected flaws. This can be particularly problematic when dealing with rail tracks that have complex geometries or when defects occur in regions that are difficult to reach using traditional systems.
[006] Additionally, traditional USU systems are limited in their ability to adapt to varying rail conditions. Rail profiles can vary widely, with some rails experiencing wear, corrosion, or deformation over time. When the rail surface is worn or uneven, the fixed transducers may not align properly with the rail, reducing the effectiveness of the inspection. As a result, the ultrasonic waves may not be transmitted or received at the optimal angles, leading to gaps in the inspection coverage. In some cases, this misalignment can cause critical defects to go undetected, compromising the safety of the rail network.
[007] Another issue with traditional ultrasonic systems is the reliance on multiple single-angle transducers to cover different regions of the rail. While this approach provides some degree of coverage, it can also lead to inefficiencies. Each transducer is dedicated to a specific area, which means that the system must incorporate several transducers to inspect the entire rail. This setup can be cumbersome, and the overall inspection process may take longer than necessary. Furthermore, as defects can occur in unpredictable locations or orientations, a system that relies on fixed-angle transducers may struggle to provide comprehensive coverage in all situations.
[008] Therefore, there is a need for an improved solution that offers greater flexibility and adaptability, by allowing the ultrasonic beam to be electronically adjusted to scan various regions of rail at multiple angles.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that enables detection of defects in regions of the rail that are difficult to access with fixed-angle transducers.
[010] Another object of the present disclosure is to improve inspection accuracy by allowing ultrasonic beam to be adjusted for defects oriented at unconventional angles.
[011] Another object of the present disclosure is to enhance inspection coverage, ensuring that even hard-to-reach areas of rail are thoroughly examined.
[012] Another object of the present disclosure is to reduce the likelihood of undetected defects, improving rail safety and maintenance.
[013] Another object of the present disclosure is to allow system to adapt to varying rail surface conditions, such as worn or irregular profiles, for consistent performance.
[014] Another object of the present disclosure is to streamline inspection process, reducing need for multiple fixed-angle transducers and enhancing inspection efficiency.

SUMMARY
[015] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the field of non-destructive testing (NDT) and, more specifically, to a phased array wheel probe system for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks. The system is configured for the efficient and precise inspection of rail tracks using ultrasonic waves and is useful in the detection and classification of defects within the rail tracks, thereby contributing to improved rail maintenance, safety, and operational efficiency.
[016] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks. The system includes a wheel probe assembly that rolls along the rail surface during the inspection, with a phased array ultrasonic transducer positioned within the assembly. This transducer scans the rail head, rail web, and base simultaneously. The phased array ultrasonic transducer is encased in a fluid-filled polymer bladder, which facilitates coupling between the transducer and the rail surface to ensure the transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals during scanning. A control unit is operatively coupled to the transducer, adjusting the ultrasonic beam angles to scan various regions of interest within the rail tracks. The control unit also receives ultrasonic signals reflected from the rail's internal features, detects defects, classifies them, and determines their location within the rail tracks.
[017] Additionally, the wheel probe assembly includes a cylindrical housing with an outer rotating shell to allow smooth rolling on the rail surface.
[018] In an aspect, the control unit is configured to detect variations in the rail surface conditions and dynamically adjust the ultrasonic beam angles.
[019] In an aspect, the fluid-filled polymer bladder can be made from materials such as polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride.
[020] In an aspect, the control unit displays real-time inspection data on a computing device and synchronizes detected defects with GPS location data, transmitting this information to a computing device.
[021] Another aspect of the present disclosure pertains to a wheel probe assembly for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks. The assembly includes a cylindrical housing with an outer rotating shell, which rolls along the rail surface during inspection. Inside the housing is a phased array ultrasonic transducer, which simultaneously scans the rail head, rail web, and base. The transducer is enclosed in a fluid-filled polymer bladder that ensures effective coupling between the transducer and the rail surface for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals. A support structure holds the transducer at a fixed angle relative to the rail surface while enabling smooth rotation of the outer shell. In addition, a control unit is coupled to the transducer and is responsible for adjusting the ultrasonic beam angles to scan different regions of the rail, receiving reflected ultrasonic signals, detecting and classifying defects, and determining their location.
[022] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[023] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[024] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a system for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[025] FIGs. 2A and 2B illustrate exemplary schematic views of proposed wheel probe assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[026] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary view of proposed wheel probe assembly on a rail track, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[027] FIGs. 4A-4C illustrate exemplary views of the proposed wheel probe assembly depicting ultrasonic beam with a variable beam angle directed towards different sections of the rail track, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[028] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flow chart to illustrate working of proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[029] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within and scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.
[030] Embodiments explained herein relate to the field of non-destructive testing (NDT) and, more specifically, to a phased array wheel probe system for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks.
[031] Various embodiments with respect to the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to FIGs. 1-5.
[032] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a system for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks. The system includes a wheel probe assembly that rolls along the rail surface during the inspection, with a phased array ultrasonic transducer positioned within the assembly. This transducer scans the rail head, rail web, and base simultaneously. The phased array ultrasonic transducer is encased in a fluid-filled polymer bladder, which facilitates coupling between the transducer and the rail surface to ensure the transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals during scanning. In addition, a control unit is operatively coupled to the transducer, adjusting the ultrasonic beam angles to scan various regions of interest within the rail tracks. The control unit also receives ultrasonic signals reflected from the rail's internal features, detects defects, classifies them, and determines their location within the rail tracks.
[033] Additionally, the wheel probe assembly includes a cylindrical housing with an outer rotating shell to allow smooth rolling on the rail surface.
[034] In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to detect variations in the rail surface conditions and dynamically adjust the ultrasonic beam angles.
[035] In an embodiment, the fluid-filled polymer bladder can be made from materials such as polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride.
[036] In an embodiment, the control unit displays real-time inspection data on a computing device and synchronizes detected defects with GPS location data, transmitting this information to a computing device.
[037] Another embodiment of the present disclosure pertains to a wheel probe assembly for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks. The assembly includes a cylindrical housing with an outer rotating shell, which rolls along the rail surface during inspection. Inside the housing is a phased array ultrasonic transducer, which simultaneously scans the rail head, rail web, and base. The transducer is enclosed in a fluid-filled polymer bladder that ensures effective coupling between the transducer and the rail surface for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals. A support structure holds the transducer at a fixed angle relative to the rail surface while enabling smooth rotation of the outer shell. In addition, a control unit is coupled to the transducer and is responsible for adjusting the ultrasonic beam angles to scan different regions of the rail, receiving reflected ultrasonic signals, detecting and classifying defects, and determining their location.
[038] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary block diagram of proposed system (100) for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks is disclosed. The system (100) includes a wheel probe assembly (102) (as shown in FIGs. 2A, 2B, and 3) configured to roll along a rail surface (302) during ultrasonic inspection. The wheel probe assembly (102) includes a cylindrical housing (102-1) that encloses and supports a phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) (interchangeably referred to as transducer (104), hereinafter). An outer rotating shell (102-2) is configured to roll smoothly along the rail surface during inspection and facilitates continuous movement of the wheel probe assembly (102) along a rail while ensuring stable contact with the rail surface.
[039] In addition, a support structure (110) is configured to hold the transducer (104) at a fixed angle relative to the rail surface, while allowing the outer rotating shell (102-2) to rotate smoothly over the rail surface.
[040] In an embodiment, the transducer (104) is configured to perform simultaneous scanning of multiple regions of the rail, including rail head, rail web, and base. This capability enhances inspection efficiency by covering multiple regions in a single scan, reducing time and effort required for thorough rail evaluation. To ensure effective ultrasonic signal transmission and reception, the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) is encased within a fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) (interchangeably referred to as bladder (106), hereinafter). The fluid inside the bladder (106) acts as a coupling medium, eliminating need for external couplants and ensuring consistent transmission between the transducer (104) and the rail surface. This minimizes signal loss and enhances the accuracy of defect detection. The bladder (106) is composed of durable and flexible materials such as polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride, which provide structural integrity, adaptability to varying rail conditions, and resistance to wear and environmental factors.
[041] In an embodiment, the system (100) includes a control unit (108) operatively coupled to the transducer (104). The control unit (108) may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the control unit (108) control unit (108) may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (not shown) of the system (100). The memory may store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines, which may be fetched and executed to analyse defects. The memory may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as Random-Access Memory (RAM), or non-volatile memory such as Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, and the like.
[042] In an embodiment, the control unit (108) is configured to dynamically adjust the ultrasonic beam angles of the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104), enabling the system (100) to scan different regions of the rail tracks without requiring mechanical repositioning of the transducer. By electronically steering the ultrasonic beam, the system (100) can inspect multiple sections of the rail, including the rail head, web, and base. This electronic beam steering enhances inspection accuracy and adaptability, allowing for the detection of defects oriented at unconventional angles that may not be easily identified using fixed-angle transducers.
[043] During operation, the control unit (108) receives ultrasonic signals or waves that are reflected from internal features of the rail tracks. When ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the transducer (104) into the rail, they propagate through the material and reflect upon encountering structural discontinuities such as cracks, voids, or material inconsistencies. The control unit (108) processes these received signals by analyzing variations in amplitude, time delay, and frequency shifts, enabling the identification of defects and assessment of their severity.
[044] Upon analyzing the reflected signals, the control unit (108) detects defects within the rail tracks by identifying deviations that indicate structural irregularities. The control unit (108) further classifies the detected defects based on their characteristics, such as size, shape, depth, and orientation, ensuring precise defect assessment. Additionally, the control unit (108) determines the exact location of these defects within the rail tracks, facilitating accurate defect mapping. This information is critical for predictive maintenance, enhancing rail safety, and preventing failures by addressing defects before they escalate into major structural issues.
[045] To further improve inspection accuracy and adaptability, the control unit (108) continuously monitors variations in rail surface conditions and dynamically adjusts the ultrasonic beam angles accordingly. Deviations in the received ultrasonic signals provide insights into rail surface conditions, such as wear, corrosion, or material inconsistencies, which can impact defect detection accuracy. By processing these deviations, the control unit (108) assesses surface irregularities and ensures that ultrasonic waves maintain effective penetration into the rail material.
[046] In response to detected variations in rail surface conditions, the control unit (108) dynamically modifies the ultrasonic beam angles to maintain optimal inspection coverage. For instance, if the rail surface is worn or uneven, the control unit (108) adjusts the beam angles to compensate for these irregularities, ensuring consistent ultrasonic wave propagation and reducing the likelihood of undetected defects. This real-time adaptability makes the system (100) suitable for inspecting rail tracks under varying conditions without requiring manual adjustments, ultimately improving the reliability and efficiency of rail inspection.
[047] In an embodiment, the control unit (108) enhances inspection process by providing real-time data visualization and location tracking of detected defects. The control unit (108) is configured to display real-time inspection data on a computing device (112), allowing operators to monitor the inspection process as it occurs. The computing device (112) is communicatively coupled to the control unit (108) through a communication unit (114). This computing device (112) may be a smartphone, tablet, computer, or any similar device capable of hosting a web client or application to facilitate communication and interaction. The communication unit (114) may be wired communication means, or wireless communication means, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the wired communication means may include, but not limited to, wires, cables, data buses, optical fibre cables, and the like.
[048] In some embodiments, the wireless communication means may include, but not be limited to, telecommunication networks, Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, Internet, Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), Light Fidelity (Li-FI) networks, a carrier network, and the like. In some embodiments, the form factor of the data transmitted through the communication means may be any one or combination of including, but not limited to, analogue signals, electrical signals, digital signals, radio signals, infrared signals, data packets, and the like.
[049] As the transducer (104) scans the rail, the control unit (108) processes the received ultrasonic signals, detects defects, and classifies them based on their characteristics. This information is further transmitted to the connected computing device (112) where it is displayed in real-time. The display may include visual representations of detected defects, their depth and severity, waveforms of the reflected signals, and inspection status. This real-time feedback enables inspectors to make immediate decisions and take corrective actions if necessary.
[050] Additionally, the control unit (108) is configured to synchronize the detected internal defects with GPS location data and transmit the corresponding information to the computing device. By integrating a GPS module (116), the system (100) assigns precise geographic coordinates to each detected defect, creating a detailed defect mapping system. This allows maintenance teams to pinpoint the exact locations of defects along the rail track, enabling targeted repairs and preventive maintenance. The synchronized defect-location data can be stored and analyzed over time to track rail deterioration trends, improving long-term rail infrastructure management.
[051] In an exemplary real-time implementation, the system (100) is deployed on a rail inspection vehicle that traverses railway tracks at a controlled speed. The wheel probe assembly (102) rolls along the rail surface, ensuring continuous contact between the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) and the rail. As the transducer (104) emits ultrasonic waves into the rail, the control unit (108) electronically adjusts the beam angles to scan the rail head, web, and base simultaneously. During scanning, the control unit (108) processes the reflected ultrasonic signals to detect anomalies such as cracks, inclusions, or corrosion. If a deviation in the signal is detected, the system immediately classifies the defect based on its size, orientation, and severity. Additionally, the control unit (108) synchronizes the detected defects with GPS location data and transmits the corresponding information to a computing device in real-time. This allows operators to monitor inspection results on-site and log precise defect locations for further analysis or maintenance planning.
[052] As the inspection continues, the control unit (108) dynamically adapts the ultrasonic beam angles in response to rail surface variations, such as wear or uneven profiles, ensuring consistent detection accuracy. The system (100) reduces the need for repeated scans and manual adjustments, significantly improving the efficiency of rail maintenance operations while enhancing safety and reliability.
[053] Referring to FIGs. 4A-4C, the proposed wheel probe assembly (102) is configured to direct an ultrasonic beam with a variable beam angle towards different sections of the rail track (302). Each phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) is configured to scan a specific region by dynamically adjusting the ultrasonic beam angle, ensuring thorough inspection of internal defects. These transducers (104) operate simultaneously, allowing multiple sections (402, 404) of the rail to be examined in parallel, as shown in FIG. 4A. Each linear phased array transducer can be assigned a distinct inspection function, ensuring comprehensive defect detection. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, the transducer (104) can be dedicated to inspecting the rail head (406). Meanwhile, as depicted in FIG. 4C, another linear phased array transducer can be configured for full rail height inspection (408, 410), covering the web and facilitating side-looking inspection within the rail head. This parallel operation optimizes defect detection, improves inspection coverage, and enhances the accuracy of rail track assessments.
[054] In an exemplary embodiment, the phased array ultrasonic probe is positioned on the rail surface with the angled beam directed towards the web of the rail. Rail web testing using the phased array ultrasonic probe scanning within a range of 10-45 degrees refers to a method of inspecting the web (the vertical section) of a railway rail for defects. This enables the detection of cracks or other flaws that may not be visible with a straight-beam probe or a single-crystal 45 or 35-degree angle probe. By directing sound waves within a sector of 10-45 degrees into the rail’s web, the ultrasonic probe improves flaw detection at various angles within the web. This examine the vertical section of the rail, where cracks or other defects are most likely to develop.
[055] Referring to FIG. 5, an exemplary flow chart (500) to illustrate working of proposed system (100) is disclosed. At step (502), the transducer (104) transmits ultrasonic signals into the rail tracks. These ultrasonic signals propagate through the rail material and reflect back upon encountering internal features such as defects or discontinuities. The bladder (106) facilitates consistent coupling between the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) and the rail surface, ensuring minimal signal loss during transmission and reception.
[056] At step (504), the control unit (108) receives the ultrasonic signals reflected from internal features of the rail tracks. The control unit (108) processes these received signals by analyzing variations in amplitude, time delay, and frequency shifts to identify anomalies. The control unit (108) distinguishes between normal reflections from the rail structure and abnormal reflections caused by defects such as cracks or voids.
[057] At step (506), the control unit (108) detects defects within the rail tracks based on deviations in the reflected ultrasonic signals. The control unit (108) further classifies the detected defects based on characteristics such as size, shape, depth, and orientation. The control unit (108) determines the precise location of the detected defects within the rail tracks, mapping defect-prone areas for further analysis.
[058] At step (508), the control unit (108) detects variations in conditions of the rail surface based on deviations in the received ultrasonic signals. The control unit (108) analyzes these deviations to assess changes in the rail surface, such as wear, corrosion, or irregular profiles, which may affect inspection accuracy.
[059] At step (510), the control unit (108) dynamically adjusts the ultrasonic beam angles of the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) in response to the detected variations in conditions of the rail surface. By electronically steering the ultrasonic beam, the control unit (108) ensures consistent inspection coverage, compensating for rail surface irregularities and maintaining optimal ultrasonic wave penetration.
[060] At step (512), the control unit (108) displays real-time inspection data on the computing device (112). The computing device (112) provides a visual representation of detected defects, classification details, and defect locations, enabling immediate assessment by maintenance personnel.
[061] At step (514), the control unit (108) synchronizes the detected defects with GPS location data and transmits corresponding information to the computing device (112). This synchronization allows for precise tracking of defect locations along the rail tracks, aiding predictive maintenance and ensuring timely repairs.
[062] Thus, the present disclosure discloses the system (100) that enables efficient ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks by dynamically adjusting beam angles, detecting and classifying defects, and adapting to rail surface variations. This enhances inspection accuracy, ensures comprehensive defect detection, and improves rail safety and maintenance.
[063] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[064] The present disclosure provides a system that enables detection of defects in regions of the rail that are difficult to access using fixed-angle transducers.
[065] The present disclosure improves inspection accuracy by allowing the ultrasonic beam to be adjusted for detecting defects oriented at unconventional angles.
[066] The present disclosure enhances inspection coverage, ensuring that even hard-to-reach areas of the rail are thoroughly examined.
[067] The present disclosure reduces likelihood of undetected defects, thereby improving rail safety and maintenance.
[068] The present disclosure allows the system to adapt to varying rail surface conditions, such as worn or irregular profiles, ensuring consistent performance.
[069] The present disclosure streamlines the inspection process by reducing the need for multiple fixed-angle transducers, thereby enhancing inspection efficiency.
, Claims:1. A system (100) for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks, the system (100) comprising:
a wheel probe assembly (102) configured to roll along a rail surface during the ultrasonic inspection;
a phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) positioned within the wheel probe assembly (102), wherein the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) is configured to scan rail head, rail web, and base simultaneously;
a fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) encasing the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104), wherein the fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) facilitates coupling between the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) and the rail surface to enable transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals during scanning; and
a control unit (108) operatively coupled to the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104), wherein the control unit (108) is configured to:
adjust ultrasonic beam angles of the phased array ultrasonic transducer to scan regions of interest within the rail tracks; and
receive the ultrasonic signals, reflected from internal features of the rail tracks during scanning;
detect defects within the rail tracks; and
classify the detected defects and determine location of the detected defects within the rail tracks.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wheel probe assembly (102) comprises a cylindrical housing (102-1) having an outer rotating shell (102-2), wherein the outer rotating shell (102-2) is configured to roll along the rail surface during inspection.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (108) is further configured to:
detect variations in conditions of the rail surface based on deviations in the received ultrasonic signals; and
dynamically adjust the ultrasonic beam angles in response to the detected variations in conditions of the rail surface.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) is composed of any of polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (108) is further configured to display real-time inspection data on a computing device.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the control unit (108) is further configured to synchronize the detected internal defects with GPS location data, and transmit corresponding information to the computing device.
7. A wheel probe assembly (102) for ultrasonic inspection of rail tracks, comprising:
a cylindrical housing (102-1) having an outer rotating shell (102-2) configured to roll along a rail surface during inspection;
a phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) positioned within the cylindrical housing, wherein the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) is configured to scan rail head, rail web, and base simultaneously;
a fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) encasing the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104), wherein the fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) facilitates coupling between the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) and the rail surface, to enable transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals during scanning;
a support structure (110) configured to hold the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) at a fixed angle relative to the rail surface, while allowing the outer rotating shell (102-2) to rotate smoothly over the rail surface; and
a control unit (108) operatively coupled to the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104), wherein the control unit (108) is configured to:
adjust ultrasonic beam angles of the phased array ultrasonic transducer (104) to scan regions of interest within the rail tracks; and
receive the ultrasonic signals, reflected from internal features of the rail tracks during scanning;
detect defects within the rail tracks; and
classify the detected defects and determine location of the detected defects within the rail tracks.
8. The wheel probe assembly (102) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) is attached to a rotating part of the outer shell.
9. The wheel probe assembly (102) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the fluid-filled polymer bladder (106) is composed of any of polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride.
10. The wheel probe assembly (102) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the control unit (108) is further configured to display real-time inspection data on a computing device.