Laser Ultrasonic Inspection of Adhesive Bonds Used in Automotive Body Assembly

Adhesive bonding is widely used in automotive production, especially for body assembly. During the manufacturing process, it is critical to be able to measure the strength of adhesive bonds in a nondestructive, effective, and rapid manner. However, there is no current means for inspecting these bonds in real time. This project will apply technique of laser ultrasonics for real-time adhesive bond inspection during body assembly. Laser ultrasonics offers high measurement speed without contacting the part. Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of single-side inspection for mapping the adhesive, and for measuring adhesive thickness and bond strength. Phase II will design and assemble a prototype inspection system, and test it on a full scale auto body. At the conclusion of Phase II, a full specification for a turnkey system will be delivered. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: An adhesive bond inspection system would allow greater use of adhesives in auto body manufacture, thereby adding strength and reducing weight.