Ultrasound inspection system for inspecting a test object with non-planar features

US9383342B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Richard H. Bossi · Renton, US
• Gary E. Georgeson · Tacoma, US
• Clarence L. Gordon, III · Renton, US
• Jeffrey R. Kollgaard · Seattle, US
• William P. Motzer · Seattle, US
• Alan F. Stewart · Seattle, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 19, 2012
• Grant date: Jul 5, 2016
• Expiry date: Jan 24, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2291/2694
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A method and apparatus for inspecting a test object with a non-planar feature. A pattern of light is transmitted from a first array of optical fibers associated with a sensor structure onto a surface of the test object at a location of the non-planar feature. The pattern of light is configured to cause sound waves in the test object when the pattern of light encounters the test object. A response to the sound waves is detected using a second array of optical fibers associated with the sensor structure. A determination is made as to whether an inconsistency is present in the test object at the location of the non-planar feature from the response to the sound waves detected using the second array of optical fibers.