Patents by Inventor Nathaniel J. Blackman

Nathaniel J. Blackman 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).

  • Patent number: 11933763
    Abstract: An apparatus for scanning a cylindrical part is provided. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer operable to emit ultrasonic waves into and receive ultrasonic waves from the part, with the ultrasonic transducer connected to a translation stage to move it up and down the part and around the circumference of the part. The apparatus does not mechanically contact the cylindrical or maintains contact only with soft elements, such that the apparatus does not damage sensitive parts. The apparatus also contains no magnetic parts, nor any elements that rely on magnetic detection, such that the apparatus is capable of being used in the vicinity of a part exhibiting a strong magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Ronald Eugene Nadeau, Ian Gravagne, Pruthul Kokkada Ravindranath
  • Publication number: 20240085381
    Abstract: A phased array housing device includes a transducer housing section, including a linear phased array of transducer elements, and a couplant housing section, including one or more couplants. The linear phased array is able to translate across the length of the transducer housing section to simulate the results of a two-dimensional matrix of transducer elements. Some versions of the linear phased array attach to a pivot point after reaching an end of the transducer housing section such that the linear phased array is able to rotate and scan in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2023
    Publication date: March 14, 2024
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Gary Georgeson
  • Patent number: 11860131
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system with an ultrasonic transducer housing assembly that maintains an acoustic coupling path for spherically focused transducers while allowing the placement of the housing at angles relative to a vertical angle. This invention extends the use of spherically focused transducers into portable systems with significantly reduced system and operational costs for non-destructive testing. The transducer housing assembly features a lens housing with an opening that is sealed with a replaceable fluid-tight membrane defining an acoustic window with acoustic properties similar to those of fluid in the housing and therefore at least translucent to the transducer and causing minimal signal loss. The housing contains minimal fluid to be cleaned up in case of improper use or leakage. The transducer housing also includes an optional surface offset and an ability to adjust the focal point of the transducer relative to the component surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Kayla P. Garrett, Douglas E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20230408453
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as an air pocket, delamination, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting foreign objects within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each object area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2023
    Publication date: December 21, 2023
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Patent number: 11835484
    Abstract: An apparatus for scanning a cylindrical part is provided. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer operable to emit ultrasonic waves into and receive ultrasonic waves from the part, with the ultrasonic transducer connected to a translation stage to move it up and down the part and around the circumference of the part. The apparatus does not mechanically contact the cylindrical or maintains contact only with soft elements, such that the apparatus does not damage sensitive parts. The apparatus also contains no magnetic parts, nor any elements that rely on magnetic detection, such that the apparatus is capable of being used in the vicinity of a part exhibiting a strong magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Pruthul Kokkada Ravindranath, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Daniel Pulipati, Ian Gravagne
  • Publication number: 20230358708
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2023
    Publication date: November 9, 2023
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Patent number: 11726065
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as an air pocket, delamination, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting foreign objects within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each object area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Publication number: 20230251228
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2023
    Publication date: August 10, 2023
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Publication number: 20230236153
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2023
    Publication date: July 27, 2023
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Patent number: 11686707
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Patent number: 11630084
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Patent number: 11619611
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: VERIFI TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Publication number: 20220412920
    Abstract: An apparatus for scanning a cylindrical part is provided. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer operable to emit ultrasonic waves into and receive ultrasonic waves from the part, with the ultrasonic transducer connected to a translation stage to move it up and down the part and around the circumference of the part. The apparatus does not mechanically contact the cylindrical or maintains contact only with soft elements, such that the apparatus does not damage sensitive parts. The apparatus also contains no magnetic parts, nor any elements that rely on magnetic detection, such that the apparatus is capable of being used in the vicinity of a part exhibiting a strong magnetic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2021
    Publication date: December 29, 2022
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Ron Nadeau, Ian Gravagne, Pruthul Kokkada Ravindranath
  • Publication number: 20220412921
    Abstract: An apparatus for scanning a cylindrical part is provided. The apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer operable to emit ultrasonic waves into and receive ultrasonic waves from the part, with the ultrasonic transducer connected to a translation stage to move it up and down the part and around the circumference of the part. The apparatus does not mechanically contact the cylindrical or maintains contact only with soft elements, such that the apparatus does not damage sensitive parts. The apparatus also contains no magnetic parts, nor any elements that rely on magnetic detection, such that the apparatus is capable of being used in the vicinity of a part exhibiting a strong magnetic field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2021
    Publication date: December 29, 2022
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Pruthul Kokkada Ravindranath, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Daniel Pulipati, Ian Gravagne
  • Publication number: 20210364472
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system is capable of producing A-scans, B-scans, and C-scans of the test object and automatically highlighting potential foreign objects within the test object based on the scan data. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of displaying a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. In one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence module capable of highlighting foreign objects in order to provide size data, shape data, and/or depth data of the foreign object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2021
    Publication date: November 25, 2021
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Benjamin M. Blandford
  • Publication number: 20210310994
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as an air pocket, delamination, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting foreign objects within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each object area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2020
    Publication date: October 7, 2021
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Publication number: 20210302376
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2021
    Publication date: September 30, 2021
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Publication number: 20210302385
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2020
    Publication date: September 30, 2021
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman
  • Publication number: 20210302384
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system with an ultrasonic transducer housing assembly that maintains an acoustic coupling path for spherically focused transducers while allowing the placement of the housing at angles relative to a vertical angle. This invention extends the use of spherically focused transducers into portable systems with significantly reduced system and operational costs for non-destructive testing. The transducer housing assembly features a lens housing with an opening that is sealed with a replaceable fluid-tight membrane defining an acoustic window with acoustic properties similar to those of fluid in the housing and therefore at least translucent to the transducer and causing minimal signal loss. The housing contains minimal fluid to be cleaned up in case of improper use or leakage. The transducer housing also includes an optional surface offset and an ability to adjust the focal point of the transducer relative to the component surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Publication date: September 30, 2021
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, Benjamin M. Blandford, Nathaniel J. Blackman, Kayla P. Garrett, Douglas E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20210302373
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for real-time visualization of a material during ultrasonic non-destructive testing. The system includes a graphical user interface (GUI) capable of showing a three-dimensional (3-D) image of a composite laminate constructed of a series of two-dimensional (2-D) cross sections. The GUI is capable of displaying the 3-D image as each additional 2-D cross section is scanned by an ultrasonic testing apparatus in real time or near real time, including probable defect regions that contain a flaw such as a hole, crack, wrinkle, or foreign object within the composite. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system includes an artificial intelligence capable of highlighting defect areas within the 3-D image in real time or near real time and providing data regarding each defect area, such as the depth, size, and/or type of each defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2021
    Publication date: September 30, 2021
    Applicant: Verifi Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Jack, John E. Fitch, Nathaniel J. Blackman