Advanced NDI Techniques using Data Fusion

The ultimate goal of this effort is to develop state-of-the-art software that performs Data Fusion on NDT techniques such as eddy current, ultrasonic, edge of light detection, Superconducting Quantum Interface Device (SQUID), X-ray and other leading NDTtechniques that is of value to the Airforce corrosion detection program. The Phase I and Phase II research proposed would ultimately lead to usage of NDT data, environmental severity index, age, and corrosion growth rate information to predict structuralstate at a specific time, pit depth, area out, morphology, hidden corrosion, etc. This research would result in reliably estimate of the remaining life cycle to plan condition based maintenance (CBM) of the aircraft. The proposed research would result insignificant manpower and machine time savings. Reliable prediction of corrosion is one of the single most important aspects for the condition-based maintenance (CBM) of the aircraft system.Direct cost of corrosion maintenance for the year 1997 is $800Million and 50% of this cost is due to aging aircraft's KC-135, C-141, and C-5. The technology developed in this research would reduce the life cycle cost and increase the availability of aircraft's resulting in substantial savings.