A Novel Laser Ultrasound Visualization Tool for Non-destructive Evaluation of Composite Aircraft Structures

In this proposal, AlphaSense details the development of a novel laser ultrasound visualization system non-destructive evaluations of composite aircraft structures. The key innovations of this proposal include the following: a) Defect detection and identifications based on direct visualizations of the ultrasound propagation characteristics in the testing articles, b) The application of laser generated ultrasound signals for damage detection and structural integrity evaluations, and c) The implementation of a fully integrated and self-contained portable sensor system. With such innovations, the merits of the proposed sensor and its advantages over other techniques are listed below: a) Compact, lightweight, and portable, b) Capable of detecting a wide variety of defects, c) Compatible with complex shapes and configurations, d) High sensitivity and good spatial resolution, e) High measurement throughput, and f) Easy and safe to the operators. More »