Autonomous non-destructive evaluation system for aircraft structures
US9234904B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 8, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jan 12, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 7, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/2694
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus comprises an inspection vehicle, a sensor system, a positioning system, a controller, and a support system. The inspection vehicle is configured to move on a surface of an object. The sensor system is associated with the inspection vehicle and is configured to generate information about the object when the inspection vehicle is on the surface of the object. The positioning system is configured to determine a location of the inspection vehicle on the object. The controller is configured to control movement of the inspection vehicle using the positioning system and control operation of the sensor system. The support system is connected to the inspection vehicle and is configured to support the inspection vehicle in response to an undesired release of the inspection vehicle from the surface of the object.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.