High resolution inductive sensor arrays for UXO
US7411390B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 3, 2003 |
| Grant date | Aug 12, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V3/15
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
For the inspection of materials and the detection and characterization of hidden objects, features, or flaws sensors and sensor arrays are used to image form two-dimensional images suitable for characterizing the hidden features. Magnetic field or eddy current based inductive and giant magnetoresistive sensors may be used on magnetizable and conducting materials, while capacitive sensors can be used for dielectric materials. Enhanced drive windings and electrode structures permit nulling or cancellation of local fields in the vicinity of the sense elements to increase sensor sensitivity. The addition of calibration windings, which are not energized during measurements, allows absolute impedance and material property measurements with nulled sensors. Sensors, sensor arrays, and support fixtures are described which permit relative motion between the drive and sense elements. This facilitates the volumetric reconstruction of hidden features and objects.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.