Wireless Eddy Current Testing Instrument

ABSTRACT: In this program we will miniaturize the wireless probe technology demonstrated in Phase I into a light-weight, wireless ET inspection system that will substantially mitigate many of the common challenges associated with conventional, wired ET. The wireless instrumentation will support conventional ET probes as well as JENTEK's MWM and MWM-Array eddy current sensors. The system will consist of a wireless ET probe, a mobile device for configuring the probe and reviewing data, and optionally a mini-server for managing and storing data or running more complex data analysis. It will utilize platform-independent software that will enable the Air Force to take advantage of information technology hardware and software as implemented in devices such as smart phones and tablets. The Phase II program will raise the technology readiness level to TRL 6 or above. This Phase II SBIR program will provide a substantial leap in the practical capabilities of Nondestructive Inspections equipment by providing wireless, light weight, and parallel architecture constructs that substantially miniaturize the required instrumentation. In addition to improving system performance by eliminating cabling and associated cable noise, the wireless system will increase the inspector's efficiency and provide easier access for tight quarters and wide area inspections. BENEFIT: Successful completion of this Phase II SBIR will provide the Air Force with a powerful wireless inspection tool that can support a wide range of applications including bolt-hole inspection, landing gear inspection, wide-area composite inspection, special coating characterization, and embedded sensors for fatigue and corrosion monitoring. The new tool is expected to improve performance compared to existing implementations by virtue of eliminating all cabling and associated cable noise and the wireless operation will increase inspector's efficiency, reducing time and cost of each inspection.