Conformal Conductivity Probe

ABSTRACT:Tier 1 point inspection tools are needed for the improved performance and maintenance of current generation aircraft.The Air Force and major air framers have long sought after a suitable tool for use in production and at maintenance depots. IERUS Technologies, in partnership with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, proposes to mature the probe developed during Phase 1 of this program and demonstrate its successful application to a wide variety of gap filler materials installed in gaps on both flat and curved surfaces.IERUS will also utilize its close partnership with Lockheed Martin to perform on-platform testing of gaps for the F-22 and F-35.The probe will be capable of outputting results in terms of both effective surface conductivity and 1D radar cross section (RCS).The latter will help engineers better understand the nature of gap material failures and better ascertain when gap fillers need to be replaced.IERUS will deliver two hand-held ruggedized probe systems ready for field use at the end of this program.BENEFIT:The probe developed under this SBIR program will provide the Air Force with a highly accurate and reliable point inspection tool for gaps and canopies on current fighters and bombers.The probe will function well on curved surfaces, which is a significant problem with current point inspection tools.IERUS will adapt the probe for use in composites inspection as well as defect detection under visually obscured surfaces such as painted metals.Several other measurement products are planned as a result of these developments.