Intelligent Automation, Inc. — National Aeronautics and Space Administration SBIR Phase I: Z11.02

Description

Ultrasonic guided waves are being used as a NDE/SHM technique to detect flaws and damage in fracture critical structures such as aerospace structures. However, due to the complexity associated with the waveguide problem, direct interpretation of large amount of NDE/SHM data is difficult. A rapid and accurate simulation tool is needed to keep up with the demand automated and timely detection and assessment of damages in complex aerospace structures. We propose to develop a "virtual inspection" simulation toolbox (UGW-Sim) specifically for ultrasonic guided waves. This tool will be able to help analyze and interpret ultrasonic guided wave signals obtained from NDE/SHM measurements for damage detection and identification. It will include modeling of critical structural components such as stiffener and bonded joints and various types of damages that are commonly encountered. The tool will also help determine the optimal sensor placement and inspection parameters to maximize the detectability of various damages. Phase I will focus on the feasibility demonstration of the approach on metal structures and simple defects. Phase II will fully develop the software tool and extend to composite material with complex geometries and defect types.