System and method for scanning a wing box skin
US9266625B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 23, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 11, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/2694
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems and methods for automated non-destructive inspection scanning of the top and bottom aerodynamic surfaces or skins of an integrally stiffened wing box (e.g., a horizontal stabilizer) using surface crawling vehicles. Each system uses dynamically controlled magnetic coupling to couple an external drive tractor to a pair of passive trailers disposed in the interior of the wing box on opposite sides of a spar. The external drive tractor is also coupled to an external NDI scanner, which the tractor pushes or pulls across the surface skin being inspected. The systems allow scanning of both surface skins without turning the wing box over. Each system is modular and can be transported to and easily set up in a building or factory.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.