Automated ultrasonic NDE

The study was concerned with investigating the feasibility of creating an ultrasonic detection unit capable of automatic flaw characterisation. The objectives were to develop a novel signal processing algorithm based on UGTD models to allow for automatic characterisation, consider acquisition of data from the phased array equipment, build a demonstrator with the algorithm embedded into it, and to trial the system on suitable components with the results being validated by comparison to those achieved by an NDE data analyst.
Investigating various options available, it was realised that major benefits would be achieved by focussing the research on state of the art Full Matrix Capture technology for gathering information from phased array probes. This approach allowed the project partners to focus primarily on developing algorithms for processing ultrasound data rather than conducting a large number of experiments to gather the required data. Automated defect detection algorithms were developed for real-time processing of the data and providing display to the user.
The study has been successful in proving the feasibility of the technology and a demonstration of the capability of the system was given at the final meeting at DPS. The technology requires further development to take forward as a service/product, and an exploitation plan with details of the development required has been written.