Nondestructive Inspection Technique Capable of Detecting and Characterizing Bridging

BERCLI Corp. and partners United Technologies Research Corp. and Marietta NDT Inc. propose an integrated inspection system comprised of custom phased-array probes, self-aligning mechanical fixturing to ensure proper alignment of the probes at all measurement points, a mechanical scanner suitable for use with both manual and automated inspection systems, and an M2M controller that allows the use of advanced phased-array techniques. These advances include flexible probes that conform to contoured surfaces, focal methods for high-resolution imaging and self-adaptive focusing techniques that allow the focal laws to be modified on the fly. The ultimate goal of the project is to deliver a fully integrated, nondestructive inspection (NDI) system for complex structures, including large contoured composite parts with tight radii. The aim of Phase 1 work is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of using advanced phased-array techniques with customized probes to meet the Navy’s specifications for defect detection and sizing, data visualization, and ease of use. For inspection of rotor blades and other composite parts, this requires optimization of the probes and inspection strategy to maximize resolution and maintain consistent resolution throughout the part.