Patents by Inventor Michael Metala

Michael Metala has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20070002133
    Abstract: An inspection system (200) is for inspecting power generation equipment (202) and includes a remote receiving device (134) which receives images captured and transmitted by an inspection apparatus (100). A recording device (142) records the images thereby providing a permanent record of the inspection. The inspection apparatus (100) comprises: a flashlight assembly (102) including a power supply (110), an elongated housing (104) having first and second ends (105,107), a lens body (120) coupled to the first end (105), and a lens cover (114) covering the lens body (120). The inspection apparatus (100) further includes an imaging system (122) having a camera (130), such as a wireless video camera, which is disposed within the lens body opening (121), an illumination assembly (106) which generally surrounds the camera (130), and a protective cover (116) for the illumination assembly (106). An associated method is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Publication date: January 4, 2007
    Inventors: Michael Metala, James Bauer, John Noll
  • Publication number: 20060283250
    Abstract: A phased array ultrasonic testing system is for examining turbine disc bores and blade attachments for discontinuities, such as stress corrosion cracking. The system is particularly suited to perform an accurate and efficient inspection of components despite their having a relatively complex geometry, such as axial entry blade attachments and bores of associated discs. The system includes a control system with a computer and a controller for programming, emitting, and steering an ultrasonic beam via at least one two-dimensional phased array probe, thereby precisely inspecting the area of interest while simultaneously accommodating the aforementioned complex geometry of the disc or blade attachment. Computer control of the beam permits the number of inspection locations and the number of different probe wedges to be reduced providing for an efficient, timely inspection. Methods of profiling and examining turbine components of known and unknown geometries, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Publication date: December 21, 2006
    Inventors: Michael Fair, Waheed Abbasi, Michael Metala, Walter Matulewicz
  • Publication number: 20060213274
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventors: Charles Moore, Michael Moore, Michael Fair, James Bauer, Michael Metala