Internal stringer inspection system for integrated structures
US8997573B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2012 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 7, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/2638
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An inspection apparatus and method for inspecting an interior surface of a hollow composite part. The inspection apparatus may have a first plug, a second plug, and a trolley positioned between the first and second plugs. The first and second plugs may form a leak-proof seal against the interior surface of the hollow composite part. The trolley may support at least one inspection probe for testing the interior surface of the composite part. A method of inspecting the composite part may include the steps of inserting the inspection apparatus into the hollow composite part, pushing or pulling the inspection apparatus with an elongated actuation element to a desired area to be inspected within the composite part, then filling a space between first and second plugs with a liquid. Finally, the method may include a step of inspecting the interior surface of the hollow composite part with the inspection probe.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.