Abstract: A system for an adaptable aperture planar array for maintaining source resolution is provided. The system includes a first nested array defining a first aperture responsive to a first range of frequencies. The first aperture is sized based on an angle between the array and the source, and includes a first subset of sensor elements. The system includes a second nested array defining a second aperture responsive to a second range of frequencies that is less than the first range of frequencies. The second aperture is sized based on the angle between the array and the source, and includes a second subset of sensor elements. The first aperture and second aperture change in size as the angle changes, which results in a change in the sensor elements within the first subset and the second subset to maintain the source resolution for the array.

Abstract: A laser transmission system is used for inspecting workpieces. The system has a source of laser beams that is coupled to a first lens assembly. A first hollow core waveguide is operably coupled to the first lens assembly. An end of an optical fiber coupled to the first hollow core waveguide. A second hollow core waveguide is coupled to the other end of the optical fiber. A second lens assembly operably coupled to the second hollow core waveguide. The length of the hollow core waveguides range from about 5 to 100 times the focal lengths of the lens assemblies. A motion control system is operably coupled to the second hollow core waveguide and the second lens assembly for controllably displacing the second hollow core waveguide and the second lens assembly with respect to a workpiece.

Abstract: A method for ultrasonic testing of an object, wherein at least one test moment an ultrasonic test signal (S1, S2) is transmitted into the object (2), while after a particular verification period (?t1, ?t2) measured from said test moment, an ultrasonic verification signal (S1?, S2?) is transmitted into the object (2), a possible echo of said test signal (S1, S2) being received from said object (2) at a particular first measuring moment, the possible echo being accepted as being the echo (E1, E2) of said test signal (S1, S2) only when the echo (E1?, E2?) of the verification signal is received at a particular second measuring moment. In addition, the invention provides an apparatus, evidently intended and designed for carrying out such a method and a use of such an apparatus.

Abstract: A tracking device is provided with a non-contact type displacement gauge, a positioner which moves a flaw detecting sensor within a plane perpendicular to an axial direction of a pipe or tube, and a positioning controller which controls the positioner.

Abstract: A working apparatus has: a working equipment for doing works on a structure; a folding/unfolding mechanism for conveying the working equipment to the working position in a folded state; a conveyance mechanism (such as a horizontal thruster) for conveying the working equipment and the folding/unfolding mechanism to the working position; a pressing mechanism (such as a ballast tank) for pressing the working equipment against the lower surface of the structure; and a traveling mechanism including a wheel for traveling along the lower surface of the structure and positioning the apparatus.

Abstract: A method and an array-based system for inspecting a structure are provided that can identify unacceptable levels of porosity, microcracking or defects attributable to thermal damage. The inspection system includes a two-dimensional array of ultrasonic transducers, and an array controller configured to trigger at least one ultrasonic transducer to emit an ultrasonic signal into the structure. The array controller is also configured to receive data representative of backscattered signals preferentially received by at least one ultrasonic transducer from a portion of the structure offset from the at least one ultrasonic transducer that was triggered to emit the ultrasonic signal.

Abstract: Systems and Methods are disclosed for the detection and imaging of ultrasonic energy. Embodiments of the invention utilize an array of ultrasonic sensors where data from each of the sensors are processed by RMS-to-DC conversion. In addition, embodiments of the invention output a contour map based on detected ultrasonic energy and blend at least one feature of the contour map with a feature of a visible image so that a blended image can be displayed to an operator. Furthermore, embodiments of the invention provide a system and method for repositioning an array of ultrasonic sensors with respect to target area or Unit Under Test (UUT) to facilitate a thorough and repeatable test.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which use a sensor holder constructed from rapid prototyping, such as stereolithography, and which is configured to support a plurality of inspection sensors typically arranged in an ordered matrix array and possibly with one or more additional inspection sensors aligned for inspection of difficult to inspect features of a structure such as radius corner or edge features. Rapid prototype integrated matrix array inspection apparatus, systems, and methods provide fast and efficient methods of constructing custom inspection devices.

Abstract: Noncontaminating and nondestructive testing of a shaped polysilicon body for a material defect is accomplished by exposing the shaped polysilicon body to ultrasound waves, and the ultrasound waves are registered by an ultrasound receiver after they have passed through the shaped polysilicon body or reflected therein, so that material defects in the polysilicon are detected.

Abstract: An inspection head for an air gap inspection device. The inspection head may include a pair of expandable shoes, an inspection device attached to the pair of shoes, and a transducer assembly attached to one of the pair of shoes.

Abstract: A head for ultrasonic inspection with a semidry coupling system involving a roller (4) and an ultrasound scanner that rolls on the surface (5) of the part to be inspected, includes a first frame (1) to which the roller (4) is connected and pivots around a stationary axis (4a) in a direction that is perpendicular to the probe's movement; a second frame (2) from which linear vertical guides (6) emerge and is connected in an oscillatory manner to the first frame (1) through an oscillating axis (11a) that is perpendicular to the stationary axis (4a): a third frame (3) that slides vertically through the linear guides (6); and at least two actuators of vertical adjustment (9) anchored to the third frame (3) and to the second frame (2), their corresponding laterally aligned pivotal axes (10), connected to the first frame (1) in a rotating manner and parallel to and lower from the plane of the stationary axis (4a) and the respective ends of the stationary axis (4a).

Abstract: Methods of operating an interrogation system that has a plurality of patches attached to a host structure. Each patch is capable of generating a diagnostic wave and/or developing a sensor signal in response to the diagnostic wave. In each method, a Euclidean undirected graph is generated by forming a plurality of paths; wherein each path connects two of the patches and the length of the path is shorter than a preset limit. Then, a directed graph or network is generated by assigning a propagation direction of the diagnostic wave to each path. Structural condition index (SCI) values are measured by use of the directed graph and, based on the SCI values, the host structure is scanned for anomalies. The directed graph is reconfigured to determine the shape and location of the anomalies.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for ultrasonic scanning of a wafer assembly is disclosed. The wafer assembly is held in a wafer chuck and rotated. A transducer generates ultrasound in the wafer assembly and the ultrasound emitted from the wafer assembly is sensed. A controller adjusts the relative positions of the wafer and the transducer and controls the transducer to generate ultrasound at a number of scan points.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing tomographic imaging of an object comprising means for conveying the object through a first imaging means and a second imaging means which are static relative to the conveying means and are comprised of at least one source and detector. The source illuminates the detector with a beam to obtain a tomographic slice with the tomographic slice of the first and second imaging means being coplanar. Between the two imaging means the movement involves a change of direction of motion of the object in the same plane as the tomographic slice whilst maintaining the objects orientation relative to the apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting samples that may include a curvature that varies from sample to sample comprises a scanning element, a feed mechanism, and a pivot mechanism. The scanning element transmits and receives a signal to and from the sample as the sample passes by, thereby building an image or profile of the sample. The feed mechanism includes a drive motor coupled to a series of pulleys and belts that form an open-ended chain. The pulleys rotate when driven by the drive motor and are coupled to an array of rollers that rotate as well to propel a inspection sample past the scanning element. The pivot mechanism includes a series of primary and secondary links that also form an open-ended chain. The primary links are coupled to the rollers and the combination pivots in unison to form an arc that matches the curvature of the sample in order to maintain a fixed distance between the sample and the scanning element.

Abstract: A system and method for range dependent weighting in ultrasound imaging. The system includes a transducer array, a data acquisition system, and an imaging processor. The transducer array receives a first ultrasound beam having a first focal depth. The data acquisition system receives a first ultrasound imaging signal from the array. The first signal includes first image data based on at least the first ultrasound beam. The imaging processor combines a first data contribution from the first image data with at least second image data from a second ultrasound imaging signal to create a spatially compounded image. The first data contribution is based on at least the focal depth of the first beam.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which use a sensor holder, which is configured to support one or more curved linear inspection sensors and may be constructed from rapid prototyping, such as stereolithography. Integrated curved linear ultrasonic transducer inspection apparatus, systems, and methods provide fast and efficient methods of constructing custom inspection devices and inspecting otherwise difficult-to-inspect curved radius features of structures, such as a corner of a hat stringer.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention concerns scanning acoustic microscopes in which sound waves used for imaging purposes are generated by an opto-acoustical process. A scanning acoustic microscope of the present invention includes an opto-acoustic transducer assembly having a substrate. Formed on or in the substrate of the opto-acoustic transducer assembly is a layer of opto-acoustic material. When pulsed light waves impinge the layer of opto-acoustic material, pulsed sound waves are created. An acoustic lens also formed in the substrate focuses the pulsed sound waves which are then used to probe the physical and mechanical properties of a sample object. Pulsed sound waves reflecting off the sample object return to the opto-acoustic transducer where the pulsed sound waves impinge the layer of opto-acoustic material. The impinging sound waves change at least one optical property of the layer of opto-acoustic material.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method, device and a circuit for detecting surface defects such as cracks, fractures and the like on a roller (2) for a rolling mill (1), in particular on the working rollers (2a) which are mounted with support roller (2b) on a vertical stand (3). The rollers (2) are verified for detecting defects in the operation position thereof, transversal ultrasonic waves (4a) whose frequency is approximately equal to 0.5-2 MHz are transmitted to the first end of the roller (2c) and are received on the second end (2d) thereof and during a measuring process an ultrasound transducer (5) and an ultrasound receiver (6) are pressed against the cylinder (2e) surface for a test time.

Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting samples that may include a curvature that varies from sample to sample comprises a scanning element, a feed mechanism, and a pivot mechanism. The scanning element transmits and receives a signal to and from the sample as the sample passes by, thereby building an image or profile of the sample. The feed mechanism includes a drive motor coupled to a series of pulleys and belts that form an open-ended chain. The pulleys rotate when driven by the drive motor and are coupled to an array of rollers that rotate as well to propel a inspection sample past the scanning element. The pivot mechanism includes a series of primary and secondary links that also form an open-ended chain. The primary links are coupled to the rollers and the combination pivots in unison to form an arc that matches the curvature of the sample in order to maintain a fixed distance between the sample and the scanning element.

Abstract: A method is provided for assembling a measurement device for use in measuring a machine component. The method includes providing a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). The method also includes combining ultrasonic inspection (UT) capabilities and CMM capabilities to form an inspection probe. The inspection probe is installed on the CMM so that the inspection probe measures external boundaries of the machine component with the CMM capabilities and substantially simultaneously measures internal boundaries of the machine component with the UT capabilities.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which permit inspection of uniquely shaped structures such as fuselage frames and shear ties. Probes may be constructed from rapid prototyping. Inspection may be performed manually and may use a portable function support system for delivering fluid couplant, controlling transmit and receive functions of the inspection sensors, and delivering immediate visual analysis for an operator. Integrated ultrasonic inspection apparatus, systems, and methods facilitate fast and efficient custom inspection devices and inspecting otherwise difficult-to-inspect structures.

Abstract: An inspection head where non-destructive inspection is structured to fit into narrow spaces, and to accurately and repeatably move an inspection probe along a surface to be inspected. Movement of the inspection head along an X, Y, Z, ?, and ?-axis is precisely controlled by individual drive mechanisms.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for coupling ultrasound between an ultrasonic transducer and an object. A scanning element is attached to an ultrasonic transducer to form an integral transducer assembly in which an ultrasound emitting surface of the ultrasonic transducer is positioned in a fluid cavity of an upper chamber. The ultrasonic transducer assembly may be moved relative to the object to be scanned in order to adjust the focus of the ultrasound. Adjusting a lower wall of the upper chamber in close proximity to the object to be scanned forms a thin film of coupling fluid between a planar region of the lower wall and the upper surface of the object.

Abstract: Apparatus for Scanning Acoustic Microscopy (SAM) of a semiconductor device including a substrate with an acoustic probe, The substrate has upper and lower surfaces. A sealed lower space provides an environment surrounding the lower surface. An upper ring structure formed above the upper surface includes an upper sealing ring in contact with the upper surface, with the upper sealing structure and the seal forming a dam for retaining the acoustic transmission fluid above the upper surface. A fixture base retains a lower sealing ring in contact with the lower surface surrounding the lower surface. An acoustic scanning probe positioned confronting the upper surface of the semiconductor device extending into the acoustic transmission fluid retained in contact with the upper surface.

Abstract: A system for mapping a condition of a structure that includes a plurality of support members covered by a wall is disclosed and includes a computer processor having a memory, a two-dimensional model of the structure stored in the memory and a three-dimensional model generator operatively associated with the computer. A density sensor that includes an ultrasonic transducer is operatively connected to the computer processor and provided with an ultra wideband transmitter. A position locating system is provided for determining the position of the ultra wideband transmitter, and hence the density sensor, in a frame of reference and communicating the position to the computer processor which displays indications of density on a three-dimensional model of the structure. A method for mapping a condition of a structure is also disclosed.

Abstract: A connection apparatus and method for controlling an ultrasound probe are provided. The ultrasound probe includes a first chamber, a second chamber, a sealing member between the first and second chambers and a flexible connection member within each of the first and second chambers. The ultrasound probe further comprises a rigid connection interface forming at least part of the sealing member and connecting the flexible connection member in the first chamber with the flexible connection member in the second chamber.

Abstract: An ultrasound probe includes a transducer (46) which is mechanically oscillated to sweep beams from the transducer over an image region of a subject. The transducer is located in a first compartment of a fluid-filled chamber which is coupled to a second compartment of the fluid-filled chamber by a bubble trap tube. A drive shaft (50) which is coupled to oscillate the transducer enters and passes through the secondary chamber before terminating at the transducer oscillation mechanism in the main chamber. This locates the dynamic seal of the drive shaft which is connected between the fluid-filled chamber and the outside air so that any air leakage of the seal will leak into the secondary compartment and not into the compartment where the transducer is located.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic equipment capable of reducing cost by reducing the number of transmission drive circuits for generating transmission pulse is disclosed. High voltage switches for determining an aperture by selecting eight pieces from among transducer elements to which transmission pulses are applied, and low voltage switches for selecting 16 pieces from among the transducer elements to receive ultrasonic echo are provided individually. Regarding the high voltage switches for transmission, four inputs are integrated into one, and a distribution circuit of 1:4 is constructed. Regarding the low voltage switches for reception, two outputs are integrated into one, and a multiplexer of 2:1 is constructed. Linear scanning is performed by only eight pulsers (transmission drive circuits). The high voltage switches for transmitting ultrasonic waves and the low voltage switches for receiving ultrasonic waves are separated from each other.

Abstract: An ultrasonic imaging device, comprising: a receiver, for receiving ultrasonic signals which carry information about human body; a processor, for analyzing and processing the received ultrasonic signals in order to get image and/or sound signals; a controller, for issuing at least one instruction; and a recorder, for recording the image and/or sound signals on recording medium in digital form in accordance with the instruction.

Abstract: Systems and methods can automatically inspect a workpiece. Non-destructive inspection sensors are mounted on a frame mounted on a transport device. Position of a first predetermined location of a workpiece is measured with a tracking system. The transport device is moved to position the non-destructive inspection sensors proximate the first predetermined location of a workpiece. A first portion of a workpiece proximate the first predetermined location is non-destructively inspected with the non-destructive inspection sensors. Position of a second predetermined location of a workpiece can be measured with the tracking system. The transport device can be moved to position the non-destructive inspection sensors proximate the second predetermined location of a workpiece, and a second portion of a workpiece proximate the second predetermined location can be non-destructively inspected with the non-destructive inspection sensors.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which use a sensor holder constructed from rapid prototyping, such as stereolithography, and which is configured to support a plurality of inspection sensors typically arranged in an ordered matrix array and possibly with one or more additional inspection sensors aligned for inspection of difficult to inspect features of a structure such as radius corner or edge features. Rapid prototype integrated matrix array inspection apparatus, systems, and methods provide fast and efficient methods of constructing custom inspection devices.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which permit inspection of uniquely shaped structures such as fuselage frames and shear ties. Probes may be constructed from rapid prototyping. Inspection may be performed manually and may use a portable function support system for delivering fluid couplant, controlling transmit and receive functions of the inspection sensors, and delivering immediate visual analysis for an operator. Integrated ultrasonic inspection apparatus, systems, and methods facilitate fast and efficient custom inspection devices and inspecting otherwise difficult-to-inspect structures.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which use a sensor holder constructed from rapid prototyping, such as stereolithography, and which is configured to support one or more linear inspection sensors. Rapid prototype integrated linear ultrasonic transducer inspection apparatus, systems, and methods provide fast and efficient methods of constructing custom inspection devices.

Abstract: An imaging probe having multi-level transmitter cells. The imaging probe includes a plurality of acoustical sub-elements for transmitting and receiving acoustic energy for imaging. Each of the multi-level transmitter cells is arranged along a respective transmitter cell path between a switching matrix and one of the acoustical sub-elements. The multi-level transmitter cells in the probe are capable of producing signals having multiple voltage levels.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided which use a sensor holder constructed from rapid prototyping, such as stereolithography, and which is configured to support a plurality of inspection sensors typically arranged in an ordered matrix array and possibly with one or more additional inspection sensors aligned for inspection of difficult to inspect features of a structure such as radius corner or edge features. Rapid prototype integrated matrix array inspection apparatus, systems, and methods provide fast and efficient methods of constructing custom inspection devices.

Abstract: A shoe apparatus for a tubular inspection, the shoe apparatus including a body, a circuit board attached to the body, a film on the backing body, the film made of piezoelectric material, a plurality of ultrasonic transducers on the film, and each ultrasonic transducer of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers connected to the circuit board.

Abstract: A method of inspecting a portion of a weld between at least two materials includes mounting at least one ultrasonic phased array probe including at least one transducer having a plurality of elements within a housing containing a liquid therein, attaching the housing adjacent to an outer surface of the portion of the weld such that the liquid is adjacent to the outer surface of the portion of the weld, and scanning the weld with the at least one ultrasonic phased array probe.

Abstract: Autonomous non-destructive inspection equipment provides automatic and/or continuous inspection and evaluation of a material under inspection. The inspection equipment preferably comprises at least one detection sensor and at least one detection sensor interface for a computer. The autonomous non-destructive inspection system may also be retrofitted into conventional inspection systems by extracting pertinent features through spectral frequency analysis and sensor compensation and utilizing those features in the autonomous non-destructive inspection system.

Abstract: The embodiments of the disclosure relate to a method of displaying an image of an inconsistency on a part. The part may be scanned. An inconsistency on the part may be located. An image of the inconsistency may be displayed on the part. In other embodiments, parts are provided which had images of the parts' inconsistencies displayed on one or more surfaces of the parts.

Abstract: A method for ultrasonically inspecting components with wavy or uneven surfaces. A multi-element array ultrasonic transducer is operated with a substantial fluid layer, such as water, between the array transducer and the component surface. This fluid layer may be maintained by immersing the component in liquid or by using a captive couplant column between the probe and the component surface. The component is scanned, measuring the two dimensional surface profile using either a mechanical stylus, laser, or ultrasonic technique. Once an accurate surface profile of the component's surface has been obtained, data processing parameters are calculated for processing the ultrasonic signals reflected from the interior of the component that eliminate beam distortion effects and reflector mis-location that would otherwise occur due to the uneven surfaces.

Abstract: An inspection assembly adapted to traverse an inspection surface, the assembly includes: a crawler body including a first side and a bottom side, wherein the first side is adapted to face a first inspection surface and the bottom side is adapted to engage a second inspection surface separated from the first inspection surface by a gap; a suction module in the crawler body adapted to create a suction between the first inspection surface to bias the crawler body against the first inspection surface; at least one roller mounted in the crawler body adapted to engage the first inspection surface, and at least one mast having a mount to receive a sensor, wherein said mast extendable from the crawler body into the gap.

Abstract: The method serves to determine the vibrational state of turbine blades, arranged on a rotor shaft, mounted such as to rotate in a housing and/or of guide vanes. At least one electromagnetic wave is transmitted into a flow channel in the vicinity of the blades, using means for the generation of at least one electromagnetic wave. The electromagnetic waves are at least partly reflected from at least one blade. The reflected part of the at least one electromagnetic wave is received by means for receiving and the vibrational state of the corresponding blade is determined from a signal corresponding to the at least one received electromagnetic wave.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for guiding the movement of a transducer of an ultrasonic probe in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for acquiring a 3-dimensional ultrasound image. A pair of guide rails is disposed near both side-ends of the transducer and is disposed apart therefrom by predetermined gaps. Slots are formed lengthwise at side surfaces of the guide rails. Each slot has a bottom wall and a side wall. Bearings coupled to the both side-ends of the transducer are received in the slots and roll on the bottom walls of the slots. First magnets are fixed to the both side-ends of the transducer and second magnets are fixed to the side walls of the slots along the overall length of the slots. The first magnets are received in the slots and are disposed opposite to the second magnets so that repulsive forces are generated therebetween.

Abstract: A radar level gauge system for determining the filling level of a filling material in a tank is disclosed. The system comprises a transmitter for transmitting measuring signals towards the surface of the filling material; a receiver for receiving echo signals from the tank; processing circuitry for determining the filling level of the tank based on said echo signal and adapted to compare said determined filling level with at least one preset threshold value and to produce an alarm signal in dependence of said threshold value; and a storage means for storing the preset threshold value, wherein said threshold value in said storage means is replaceable and/or adjustable. The alarm signal could indicate high level and/or overfill. The possibility of adjusting/replacing the threshold values enables adjustment of the alarm levels when the system is already installed. A corresponding method of operation is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system incorporating a robot to inspect ferrous surfaces. Preferably, the robot is an articulated device having a tractor module for motive power and steering, a power module for electrical power and communications and additional motive power, and a third module for cleaning and inspection. The robot uses sensors and generates and transmits signals to a computer through a tether and receives direction from an operator via the computer and tether. The computer continuously monitors the location of the robot and supports the robot during deployment. In a specific application, the robot travels the interior of a tank on a set of magnetized wheels. Prior to inspection, the tank surface is cleaned of deposits by rotary cutters and rotary brushes on the third module. The robot obtains thickness measurements via onboard ultrasonic transducers that contact the cleaned surface. A method for implementing inspection of ferrous surfaces is also described.

Abstract: In order to check a material web (12), in particular a film web, with regard to the correct arrangement of a tear-off strip (11) extending in the longitudinal direction of the material web (12), ultrasonic transmitters are used, specifically an ultrasonic transmitter (11) on the one hand and an ultrasonic receiver (19) on the other hand. The sensors are arranged on opposite sides of the material web (12) in such a way that, if appropriate, focused ultrasonic waves are aimed specifically at the region of the tear-off strip (11). If a tear-off strip (11) is missing, an appropriate signal is generated by the ultrasonic receiver (19).

Abstract: A working apparatus has: a working equipment for doing works on a structure; an operation mechanism adapted to actively move the working equipment relative to the structure; and an adhering/traveling module coupled to the operation mechanism and adapted to adhere to the structure so as to have the weight of the working apparatus borne by the structure and travel/move on the structure for positioning. With this arrangement, the working apparatus can perform accurate positioning operations in a narrow environment and complex scanning operations by means of various pieces of the working equipment such as inspection sensors, and can secure a large working area within a short period of time and reduce the overall working hours.

Abstract: An inspection device for performing nondestructive testing on a test subject includes a manually controlled inspection cart. The inspection device also includes a nondestructive testing platform and a computer coupled to the inspection cart. The computer is operable to control the movement of the nondestructive testing device when the inspection device is within a predetermined distance from the test subject.

Abstract: A hat stringer inspection device permits continuous inspection of hat stringers as one or more probes are moved along the length of the hat stringer. Probes may be magnetically coupled to opposing surfaces of the structure, including, for example, where one of the probes is positioned inside the hat stringer and the probes are magnetically coupled across the surface of the hat stringer. The device may be autonomous with a feedback-controlled motor to drive the inspection device along the hat stringer. Magnetic coupling is also used to re-orient the position and/or alignment of the probes with respect to changes in the hat stringer or shapes, sizes, and configurations of hat stingers.