Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: AF151-122

Description

ABSTRACT:To address the Air Force need for a nondestructive inspection (NDI) tool for corrosion detection in sub-structures, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Substructure Corrosion Advanced NDI Tool (SCANDIT). This proposed device solution is based on a new system design that leverages POC-developed NDI technology and state-of-the-art commercial-off-the-shelf components. Specifically, system-level innovations provide SCANDIT with versatility, portability, and usability for NDI applications. SCANDIT also includes advanced signal analysis methods that enhance the resolution, scan rate, and detection capability of SCANDIT. As a result, SCANDIT offers the capability to effectively detect and quantify corrosion as small as 0.075 in. in diameter and 0.02 in. thick through up to 0.2 in. of aluminum or up to 0.5 in. of composite, including surface coatings and treatments, which directly addresses the Air Force requirements. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of SCANDIT by conducting measurements of test technologies with representative test specimens. In Phase II, POC plans to develop a prototype SCANDIT system for field portable applications and to demonstrate and validate it with stack-up configurations to be defined by the government.BENEFIT:Government applications of the SCANDIT technology will include NDI of structural metallic components in aircraft (Air Force, Navy), spacecraft (Air Force, NASA), and naval vessels (Navy). For example, multilayer metallic structures in aircraft fuselage can develop cracks near fasteners and bushings that can be difficult to detect using conventional means. Additional applications include NDI of structural steel components of nuclear and fossil fuel power plants and refineries. Potential customers of SCANDIT may include commercial airline manufacturers such as Boeing.