High resolution hidden damage imaging
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A test circuit comprising:
- two parallel rows of aligned sense elements for scanning across a material under test surface;
at least one linear conductor segment positioned parallel to and between the sensing element rows for imposing a magnetic field; and
a right row of sensing elements for detecting a flaw on the right side of a feature and a left row of sensing elements for detecting cracks on the left side of a feature.
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Abstract
This invention relates to apparatus for the nondestructive measurements of materials. New eddy current sensing arrays and methods are described which provide a capability for high resolution imaging of test materials and also a high probabilitity of detection for defects and flaws around features such as fasteners. The arrays incorporate unique layouts for the sensing elements, generally have essentially identical sensor arrays with sensing elements aligned in proximity to the drive elements, and conductive pathways that promote cancellation of undesired magnetic flux. These features enable the use of small sense elements that permits high resolution imaging of material properties.
65 Citations
27 Claims
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1. A test circuit comprising:
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two parallel rows of aligned sense elements for scanning across a material under test surface;
at least one linear conductor segment positioned parallel to and between the sensing element rows for imposing a magnetic field; and
a right row of sensing elements for detecting a flaw on the right side of a feature and a left row of sensing elements for detecting cracks on the left side of a feature. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22)
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23. A method for inspecting materials comprising:
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disposing at least two parallel rows of aligned sense elements on substrate for scanning across a material under test surface, with at least one linear drive conductor segment positioned parallel to and between the sensing element rows for imposing a magnetic field; and
having a right row of sensing elements for detecting a flaw on the right side of a feature and a left row of sensing elements for detecting cracks on the left side of a feature;
passing a time-varying electric current through the drive conductor;
measuring the response from each of the sense elements, comprising the scan responses to a shape filter representing the response from a flaw, and searching the scan responses for indications likely to be the flaw. - View Dependent Claims (24, 25, 26, 27)
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Specification