Nondestructive Inspection Technique Capable of Detecting and Characterizing Bridging Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Topic No.: N102-143 Topic Title: Nondestructive Inspection Technique Capable of Detecting and Characterizing Bridging Proposal No.: N102-143-0630 Firm: Bercli 2614 McGee Avenue Berkeley, California 94703 Contact: Deborah Hopkins Phone: (510) 717-8859 Web Site: www.bercli.net Abstract: BERCLI Corp. and partners United Technologies Research Corp. and Marietta NDT Inc. propose an integrated inspection system comprised of custom phased-array probes, self-aligning mechanical fixturing to ensure proper alignment of the probes at all measurement points, a mechanical scanner suitable for use with both manual and automated inspection systems, and an M2M controller that allows the use of advanced phased-array techniques. These advances include flexible probes that conform to contoured surfaces, focal methods for high-resolution imaging and self-adaptive focusing techniques that allow the focal laws to be modified on the fly. The ultimate goal of the project is to deliver a fully integrated, nondestructive inspection (NDI) system for complex structures, including large contoured composite parts with tight radii. The aim of Phase 1 work is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of using advanced phased-array techniques with customized probes to meet the Navy's specifications for defect detection and sizing, data visualization, and ease of use. For inspection of rotor blades and other composite parts, this requires optimization of the probes and inspection strategy to maximize resolution and maintain consistent resolution throughout the part. Benefits: The integrated inspection system will be suitable for use with a wide range of composite and metal components, including complex parts with contoured surfaces and tight radii. To maximize the commercialization potential, the system will be suitable for both manual and automated inspections. the use of composites is growing rapidly and most of the experience and technology gained from the proposed project will find applications not only in aerospace, but also in power generation, automotive, construction, and defense industries. Commercialization potential is further enhanced by developing and demonstrating the value of high-resolution imaging techniques, demonstrating the feasibility of self-adapting focal laws and utilizing very recent technological advancements that have produced flexible phased-array probes that conform to contoured and irregular surfaces. These developments represent a leap forward in phased-array technology that will enable a broad spectrum of new inspection techniques, for example, for pipes, tubes, cones, nozzles, welds, and components with rough, irregular, or contoured surfaces. Return