Hyperspectral borescope system

Abstract

The invention relates to a hyperspectral borescope system, and discloses a method and apparatus for inspecting a structure. Electromagnetic radiation is transmitted from an electromagnetic radiation emission system to a surface on a structure. The response to electromagnetic radiation is filtered using a filter located within the borescope inspection housing. The filter is configured to pass several wavelengths in a response to electromagnetic radiation directed toward the surface on the structure. Data from a number of wavelengths passed through a filter is generated using a sensor array. A two-dimensional image of a surface on a structure is generated with a set of graphical indicators that indicate a set of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye. The two-dimensional image is generated using data from the sensor array.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 201710398302.2, filed May 31, 2017, entitled "Hyperspectral Borescope System." TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to aircraft and, in particular, to aircraft inspection systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for inspecting an aircraft using a borescope system. BACKGROUND

[0003] An increasing percentage of composite materials are being used to design and manufacture aircraft. Composite materials are used in aircraft to reduce the weight of the aircraft. This reduced weight improves performance characteristics, such as payload capacity and fuel efficiency. In addition, composite materials provide a longer service life for various components in the aircraft.

[0004] Composite materials are tough, lightweight materials created by combining two or more functional components. For example, a composite material can include reinforcing fibers incorporated in a polymeric resin matrix. The fibers can be unidirectional or can take the form of a woven cloth or fabric. The fibers and resin are arranged and cured to form the composite material.

[0005] In addition, the use of composite materials to create aerospace composite structures potentially allows portions of an aircraft to be manufactured in larger blocks or segments. For example, a fuselage in an aircraft can be created as cylindrical segments to form the fuselage of the aircraft. Other examples include, but are not limited to, wing segments joined to form a wing or stabilizer segments joined to form a stabilizer.

[0006] In manufacturing a composite structure, layers of composite material are typically laid up on a tool. These layers can include fibers in a sheet. These sheets can take the form of a fabric, tape, roving, or other suitable form. In some cases, resin can be infused or pre-impregnated into the sheet. These types of sheets are often referred to as pre-impregnated materials.

[0007] Different layers of pre-impregnated material can be laid up in different orientations, and different numbers of layers can be used depending on the thickness of the composite structure being manufactured. After the different layers have been laid up, the layers are fixed and cured upon exposure to temperature and pressure, thus forming the final composite structure.

[0008] Inspection of the composite structure can be performed at different times, such as during the layup of the pre-impregnated material layers, after the composite structure has been formed but before the composite structure is cured, and after the composite structure is cured. The inspection can be performed using X-ray inspection systems, ultrasonic inspection systems, and other types of non-destructive inspection systems.

[0009] In addition to other types of inspection systems, operators inspecting composite structures can also conduct visual inspections. This visual inspection can be conducted to locate inconsistencies, such as foreign object debris (FOD), delaminations, or other inconsistencies. In some composite structures, it can be more difficult to make these types of inspections as compared to desired because of limited access to internal or other locations. For example, for a composite wing, spars, ribs, and skin panels can be formed and placed separately to form a composite wing prior to co-curing the composite wing. It can be more challenging to visually inspect the interior of the composite wing prior to curing and after curing than desired.

[0010] Therefore, it can be desirable to have a method and apparatus that addresses at least one of the foregoing issues, and possibly others. For example, it can be desirable to have a method and apparatus that overcomes technical problems with inspecting composite structures having limited access locations. SUMMARY

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an apparatus comprising a borescope inspection housing, an electromagnetic radiation emission system associated with the borescope inspection housing, a filter, and a sensor array. The electromagnetic radiation emission system is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation. The filter is located inside the borescope inspection housing. The filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in a response to the electromagnetic radiation directed at a surface on a structure. The response is received through an opening in the borescope inspection housing. The sensor array is located inside the borescope inspection housing behind the filter. The sensor array comprises sensors configured to generate data from the number of wavelengths passed by the filter such that a hyperspectral analysis of the surface on the structure can be performed.

[0012] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a hyperspectral borescope system. The hyperspectral borescope system comprises a borescope inspection housing for a borescope, a tube associated with the borescope inspection housing for the borescope, an electromagnetic radiation emission system associated with the borescope inspection housing, a filter located inside the borescope inspection housing, a sensor array located inside the borescope inspection housing behind the filter, and an analyzer in communication with the sensor array. The electromagnetic radiation emission system is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation. The filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in a response to the electromagnetic radiation directed at a surface on a structure. The response is received through an opening in the borescope inspection housing. The sensor array comprises sensors configured to generate data from the number of wavelengths passed by the filter. The analyzer is configured to cause the sensor array to generate data from the response received from the electromagnetic radiation directed at the surface on the structure and generate a two-dimensional image of the surface on the structure having a set of graphical indicators indicating a set of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye.

[0013] Yet another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for inspecting a structure. Electromagnetic radiation is transmitted from an electromagnetic radiation transmission system to a surface on the structure. A response to the electromagnetic radiation is filtered using a filter located inside a borescope inspection housing. The filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in the response to the electromagnetic radiation directed at the surface on the structure. Data from the number of wavelengths is generated from the number of wavelengths passed through the filter using a sensor array. A two-dimensional image of the surface on the structure is generated with a set of graphical indicators that indicate a set of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye. The two-dimensional image is generated using data from the sensor array.

[0014] The features and functionalities can be implemented individually in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or combined in other embodiments, further details of which can be understood with reference to the following specification and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] The features believed to be novel are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrative embodiments, however, will be described in connection with the following detailed description and the attached drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 is an illustration of an aircraft inspection environment according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0017] Figure 2 is an illustration of a block diagram of an inspection environment according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0018] Figure 3 is an illustration of a block diagram of wavelength windowing in a borescope system according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0019] Figure 4 is an illustration of a block diagram of background thresholding in a borescope system according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0020] Figure 5 is an illustration of a borescope head for a borescope inspection system according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0021] Figure 6 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for inspecting a structure according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0022] Figure 7 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for controlling sensors in a sensor array according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0023] Figure 8 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for controlling electromagnetic radiation sources in an electromagnetic radiation transmission system according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0024] Figure 9 is an illustration of a diagram of a block diagram of a data processing system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

[0025] Figure 10 is an illustration of a diagram of a block diagram of an aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

[0026] Figure 11 is an illustration of a diagram of a block diagram of an aircraft in which illustrative embodiments can be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] Illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account one or more different considerations. For example, illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that it can be more difficult to make a visual inspection when a composite structure has a location with restricted access as compared to when there is no restricted access. Illustrative embodiments also recognize and take into account that a borescope can be used to perform a visual inspection.

[0028] For example, example embodiments recognize and take into account that an operator can use a borescope to look for inconsistencies on a surface on a composite structure. However, illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that currently used borescopes only provide limited ability to inspect a surface on a composite structure. Illustrative embodiments also recognize and take into account that currently used borescopes only allow an operator to observe inconsistencies that are visible to the naked eye.

[0029] Accordingly, illustrative embodiments provide a method and apparatus for inspecting inconsistencies in a structure of an aircraft that includes a composite structure. In one illustrative example, an apparatus includes a borescope inspection housing, an electromagnetic radiation emitting system, a filter, and a sensor array. The electromagnetic radiation emitting system is associated with the inspection housing, where an electromagnetic radiation source is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation. The filter is positioned inside the inspection housing and is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in a response to the electromagnetic radiation directed at a surface on the structure. The response is received through an opening in the inspection housing. The sensor array is positioned inside the inspection housing behind the filter, where the sensor array includes sensors configured to generate data from the number of wavelengths passed by the filter, thus enabling hyperspectral analysis of the surface on the structure.

[0030] When a component is "associated with" another component, the association is a physical association. For example, a first component (such as an electromagnetic radiation emitting system) can be considered to be physically associated with a second component (such as a borescope inspection housing) by at least one of being secured to the second component, being bonded to the second component, being mounted to the second component, being soldered to the second component, being fastened to the second component, or being connected to the second component in some other suitable manner. The first component can also be connected to the second component by use of a third component. The first component can also be considered to be physically associated with the second component by being formed as a part of the second component, an extension of the second component, or both.

[0031] Reference is now made to the drawings, and more particularly to Figure 1 which depicts an illustration of an aircraft inspection environment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In the depicted example, the aircraft inspection environment 100 includes a composite wing 102. The composite wing 102 is in uncured form and is shown in an exposed view. The different parts forming the composite wing 102 can be co-cured, thereby placing the composite wing 102 in cured form, for use on an aircraft.

[0032] In this illustrative example, the operator 104 is a human operator performing an inspection of the composite wing 102. The operator 104 uses a borescope system 106 to inspect the composite wing 102. As depicted, the borescope system 106 includes a borescope inspection head 108, a cable 110, a computer 112, and a display device 114.

[0033] As depicted, the operator 104 can use the cable 110 to move the borescope inspection head 108 into an interior 116 of the composite wing 102. In addition to being used to position the borescope inspection head 108 in the interior 116 of the composite wing 102, the cable 110 also provides a connection between the borescope inspection head 108 and the computer 112, as seen in this exposed view of the composite wing 102.

[0034] In this illustrative example, the borescope inspection head 108 generates information about a surface in the interior 116 of the composite wing 102 and sends this information to the computer 112. This information can be used to perform a hyperspectral analysis of the surface in the interior 116. An image can be generated and displayed on the display device 114 for visualizing the hyperspectral analysis.

[0035] In this manner, the borescope system 106 can be used to identify inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye. Additionally, the borescope system 106 can also be used to display an image of the surface in the interior 116 of the composite wing 102 without performing a hyperspectral analysis.

[0036] Figure 1 The illustration of the aircraft inspection environment 100 in FIG. 1 is provided as one example of an illustrative embodiment and is not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative embodiments can be implemented. For example, the borescope system 106 can be used to inspect surfaces that are easier to access in addition to surfaces with restricted access. As another example, the borescope system 106 can be used to inspect other structures than the composite wing 102. For example, the borescope system 106 can be used to inspect a skin panel, a fuselage, a wing box, a spar, or some other suitable structure, which can include at least one of a composite material, a metal, a plastic, or some other suitable material.

[0037] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of...," when used in a list of items, means that different combinations of one or more of the items in the list can be used and only one of each item in the list can be needed. That is, "at least one of" means any combination of the items and a number of the items from the list can be used, but not all of the items in the list. The items can be special objects, things, or categories.

[0038] For example, and without limitation, "at least one of: item A, item B, or item C" can include item A, item A and item B, or item B. The example can also include item A, item B, and item C, or item B and item C. Of course, any combination of the items can exist. In some illustrative examples, "at least one of" can be, for example, but not limited to: two item A's; one item B; and ten item C's; four item B's and seven item C's; or other suitable combinations.

[0039] Reference is made below to Figure 2 a diagram of a block diagram of an inspection environment, in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Figure 1 An aircraft inspection environment 100 in which the illustrative embodiments can be used is an example of one implementation of an inspection environment 200 shown in block form in this diagram.

[0040] As depicted, the operator 202 is a human operator using a borescope system 204 to inspect a structure 206 for a platform 208. In this illustrative example, the platform 208 takes the form of an aircraft 210.

[0041] In this illustrative example, the operator 202 can use the borescope system 204 to determine whether a set of inconsistencies 212 exist on a set of surfaces 214 on the structure 206. The structure 206 can take several different forms. For example, the structure 206 can be selected from one of an uncured composite structure, a cured composite structure, a part, an assembly, a wing, a composite skin panel, a horizontal stabilizer, a spar, a rib, a prepreg layer, an engine case, a wing box, a duct, a tube, or some other suitable type of structure. The set of surfaces 214 on the structure 206 can include a set of locations 216 that are difficult to access without the borescope system 204.

[0042] In this illustrative example, the set of inconsistencies 212 can take several different forms. For example, the set of inconsistencies 212 can be selected from at least one of a foreign object debris (FOD), a delamination, a stain, or some other undesirable condition. The undesirable condition can be a condition that does not meet a specification for the structure 206.

[0043] Further, the set of inconsistencies 212 can not be detrimental to the structure under inspection. Rather, the set of inconsistencies 212 can indicate the presence of a problem or issue. For example, the set of inconsistencies 212 can be the presence of a fuel residue at a location on a surface in the first structure that fuel residue should not normally be found. The fuel residue is an inconsistency in the set of inconsistencies 212 that can indicate the presence of a leak in the second structure.

[0044] In this illustrative example, the set of inconsistencies 212 can include a contaminant 213. The contaminant 213 is any physical, chemical, biological, or radioactive substance that causes the structure 206 to not perform as expected. The decrease in performance can be, for example, a decrease in strength, corrosion resistance, smoothness, aesthetics, or some other type of performance.

[0045] In this illustrative example, the borescope system 204 has several different components. As described, the borescope system 204 includes a borescope inspection housing 218, an elongate member 220, an analyzer 222, and a display system 224.

[0046] The elongate member 220 connects the borescope inspection housing 218 and the analyzer 222 to each other. Depending on the particular implementation, the elongate member 220 can be flexible or rigid. For example, the elongate member 220 can be selected from one of a rigid elongate member, a flexible elongate member, a cable, a tube, a pipe, or some other suitable type of elongate member. The elongate member 220 can be used by the operator 202 to move the borescope inspection housing 218 to a set of locations 216 on a set of surfaces 214.

[0047] In this illustrative example, the borescope inspection housing 218 serves as a platform for several different components. As described, these components include an electromagnetic radiation emission system 226, a filter 228, and a sensor array 230. These components and the borescope inspection housing 218 form a borescope inspection head 231.

[0048] The borescope inspection housing 218 can include any number of materials. For example, the borescope inspection housing 218 can include one or more materials selected from aluminum, steel, plastic, composite, titanium, polycarbonate, or some other suitable material. The selected material is based on the environment in which the borescope inspection housing 218 is used or other factors.

[0049] The electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 is associated with the borescope inspection housing 218. As described, the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation 232. In this illustrative example, the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 includes a set of electromagnetic radiation sources 234 that emit the electromagnetic radiation 232.

[0050] As described, filter 228 is located inside borescope housing 218. Filter 228 is configured to pass a number of wavelengths 236 in a response of electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 directed at a surface 240 of a number of surfaces 214 on structure 206. In this illustrative example, filter 228 is an interference filter. Response 238 is received through an opening 242 in borescope housing 218.

[0051] In this illustrative example, sensor array 230 is located inside borescope housing 218 behind filter 228. Sensor array 230 includes sensors 244 configured to generate data 246 from the number of wavelengths 236 passed by filter 228. Sensors 244 can take a number of different forms. For example, sensors 244 can be selected from at least one of a charge-coupled device, a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor device, an indium antimonide (InSb) semiconductor device, a mercury cadmium telluride (HgCdTe) semiconductor device, or some other suitable type of device that inspects electromagnetic radiation.

[0052] As used herein, “a number of” when used to refer to items means one or more than one item. For example, “a number of wavelengths 236” is one or more than one wavelength 236.

[0053] Generation of data 246 enables hyperspectral analysis of surface 240 on structure 206 by analyzer 222. In this illustrative example, hyperspectral analysis 248 involves analyzing information in a spectrum of wavelengths 236.

[0054] Wavelengths 236 in response 238 are filtered to obtain a set of wavelengths 236 that can be meaningful for analysis. The spectrum of wavelengths 236 can include at least one of visible wavelengths, near-infrared wavelengths, ultraviolet wavelengths, or other suitable wavelengths.

[0055] For example, analyzer 222 is in communication with sensor array 230 such that analyzer 222 can control operation of sensor array 230 and receive data 246 generated by sensor array 230. Analyzer 222 communicates with sensor array 230 using at least one of an electrical wire, an optical fiber, or a wireless connection. When communication is implemented through a physical communication link, such as an electrical wire or an optical fiber, the communication link can extend through elongate member 220.

[0056] As described, the analyzer 222 is configured to cause the sensor array 230 to generate data 246 from the response 238 received from the electromagnetic radiation 232 directed at the surface 240 on the structure 206. The analyzer 222 is also configured to generate a two-dimensional image 250 of the surface 240 on the structure 206 with a set of graphical indicators 254 that indicate the set of inconsistencies 212 that are not visible to the naked eye. In this example, the two-dimensional image 252 can include the structure 206. The set of graphical indicators 254 in the two-dimensional image 250 can be arranged at the locations 216 on the structure 206 where the set of inconsistencies 212 have been identified. Further, the set of graphical indicators 254 can also include an indication when an inconsistency is not present.

[0057] The set of graphical indicators 254 can take several different forms. For example, the set of graphical indicators 254 can be selected from at least one of a color, a bold, a text, an icon, a flashing graphic, or some other suitable graphical indicator to indicate the presence or absence of an inconsistency.

[0058] The analyzer 222 can be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. When using software, the operations performed by the analyzer can be implemented in program code configured to run on hardware, such as a processor unit. When using firmware, the operations performed by the analyzer 222 can be implemented in program code and data and stored in persistent memory for running on a processor unit. When employing hardware, the hardware can include circuitry operable to perform the operations in the analyzer 222.

[0059] In this illustrative example, the hardware can take the form of at least one selected from circuitry, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some suitable type of hardware configured to perform a number of operations. In the case of a programmable logic device, the device can be configured to perform a number of operations. The device can later be reconfigured or can be permanently configured to perform a number of operations. Programmable logic devices include, for example, programmable logic arrays, programmable array logic, field programmable logic arrays, field programmable gate arrays, and other suitable hardware devices. Additionally, the processing can be implemented in organic components integrated with inorganic components and can be comprised entirely of organic components excluding a human being. For example, the processing can be implemented as a circuit in an organic semiconductor.

[0060] In this example, the analyzer 222 can be implemented in a computer system 256, which is a physical hardware system and includes one or more data processing systems. When more than one data processing system is present, the data processing systems communicate with each other using a communication medium. The communication medium can be a network. The data processing systems can be selected from at least one of a computer, a server computer, a tablet, or some other suitable data processing system.

[0061] As described, the analyzer 222 can use the data 246 and the feature database 258 to perform the hyperspectral analysis 248 to identify the inconsistency 212. As described, the data 246 includes a set of features 260 based on the responses 238 detected by the sensor array 230. For example, the data 246 includes data generated from a set of wavelengths 236 divided from the responses 238 from each of the set of locations 216. In these illustrative examples, the data 246 includes an intensity for each wavelength in the set of wavelengths 236 for a particular location in the set of locations 216. In these examples, a portion of the data 246 for a particular location in the set of locations 216 forms a feature.

[0062] The set of features 260 in the data 246 is compared to the set of features 262 in the feature database 258 to determine whether the inconsistency 212 is present. The feature database 258 is a database of wavelengths for known inconsistencies. Each feature 262 is for a particular inconsistency. Each feature 262 contains wavelengths and intensities of those wavelengths that are present when the particular inconsistency is present. In this illustrative example, the wavelengths and intensities are selected to be unique to the material.

[0063] In addition, the features 262 can also include features for the case when the inconsistency is not present. For example, the features 262 can include features for composite materials, metals, or other suitable materials that can be present when the inconsistency 212 is not present. Thus, in addition to confirming whether the inconsistency is present, the analyzer 222 can also identify the material of the structure present in the responses 238.

[0064] Thus, the borescope system 204 is a hyperspectral borescope system. In this way, the inspection can be performed to confirm inconsistencies 212 that are not visible to the naked eye. In one illustrative example, there is one or more technical solutions that overcome the technical problem of inspecting composite structures that have limited access locations. The one or more technical solutions employ a borescope system 204 that allows for the hyperspectral analysis 248.

[0065] As a result, one or more of the technical solutions can provide the technical effect of enabling the ability to identify a set of inconsistencies 212 on the surface 240 on the structure 206 (even in cases where the surface 240 on the structure 206 has limited access). Additionally, there is the technical effect where the set of inconsistencies 212 can be identified even when not apparent to the naked eye of the operator 202.

[0066] Reference is made below to Figure 3 a diagram illustrating a block diagram of wavelength windowing in a borescope system, in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, the analyzer 222 controls operation of the sensors 244 in the sensor array 230 to perform Figure 2 wavelength windowing 300 in the borescope system 204 in

[0067] As described, the analyzer 222 is in communication with the sensor array 230. In this illustrative example, the analyzer 222 is configured to selectively activate a set of sensors 244 in the sensor array 230 to form a wavelength window 302 that receives a set of wavelengths 304 of the number of wavelengths 236. The number of wavelengths 236 are detected by the sensors 244 and some of the number of wavelengths 236 can reach more sensors 244 than others of the number of wavelengths 236.

[0068] For example, a wavelength 306 that is known to be partially normal can reach so many sensors 244 that detection of that wavelength results in saturation of the sensors 244. The wavelength window 302 can be selected to turn off a first sensor 308 of the sensors 244 that detects the wavelength 306. As a result, the first sensor 308 does not generate a signal or data for the wavelength 306.

[0069] A second sensor 310 is turned on to detect a set of wavelengths 304 that reach the second sensor 310. In this example, the second sensor 310 forms the wavelength window 302. The first sensor 308 can be considered a mask 312. In this way, saturation by the wavelength 306 can be reduced or avoided.

[0070] The wavelength window 302 can take on different shapes and can include non-contiguous regions of sensors 244. For example, the wavelength window 302 can be selected to include sensors 244 in a row, in a column, in a square, or some other shape. In this illustrative example, the set of wavelengths 304 is selected based on wavelengths used for inconsistencies (such as Figure 2 on the surface 204 on the structure 206 in

[0071] Reference is made below to Figure 4FIG. 2 is a diagram of a block diagram of a borescope system according to illustrative embodiments. In this example, an analyzer 222 controls operation of an electromagnetic radiation source 234 in an electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 to perform Figure 2 The electromagnetic radiation source 234 can be selected from at least one of a light emitting diode, a halogen bulb, an incandescent bulb, or some other suitable type of electromagnetic radiation source.

[0072] Before being filtered by the filter 228 to pass Figure 2 Wavelengths 236 in the response 238 are present before being filtered by the filter 228 to pass Figure 2 The composition of the wavelengths 236 can be controlled based on a set of desired wavelengths 402 in the electromagnetic radiation 232 in

[0073] In the illustrative example, the analyzer 222 is in communication with the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226. The analyzer 222 is configured to control operation of the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226, and more specifically operation of the electromagnetic radiation source 234 in the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226. As described, the analyzer 222 selectively activates the electromagnetic radiation source 234 in the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 to cause the electromagnetic radiation emission system 226 to emit electromagnetic radiation 232 having a set of desired wavelengths 402.

[0074] The selection of the wavelengths in the set of desired wavelengths 402 can be based on wavelengths that are scattered or reflected by particular inconsistencies for detection in the response 238 in Figure 2 For example, the set of desired wavelengths 402 can be selected based on wavelengths of potential contaminants that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface 240 on the structure 206 in Figure 2 In addition, the analyzer 222 can select the set of desired wavelengths 402 so as to inspect the surface 240 on the structure 206 for a particular type of inconsistency in the set of inconsistencies 212 in Figure 2 For example, the set of desired wavelengths 402 can be selected for detection of moisture, oil, or some other substance that is considered a contaminant when present on the surface 240 on the structure 206.

[0075] Figures 2-5 The diagrammatic illustrations of the inspection environment 200 and different components in the inspection environment 200 in FIG. 1 are not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which illustrative embodiments can be implemented. Other components in addition to or in place of those shown can be used. Some components can be unnecessary. Additionally, the blocks are shown to illustrate some functional components. One or more of these blocks can be combined, divided, or combined and divided into different blocks when implemented in illustrative embodiments.

[0076] For example, while the illustrative example is directed toFigure 2 The illustrative examples can be applied to other types of platforms. The platform 208 can be, for example, a mobile platform, a stationary platform, a land-based structure, a water-based structure, and a space-based structure. More specifically, the platform 208 can be a watercraft, a tank, a personnel carrier, a train, a spacecraft, a space station, a satellite, a submarine, an automobile, a power plant, a bridge, a dam, a house, a manufacturing plant, a building, and other suitable platforms.

[0077] Turning next to Figure 5 An illustration of a borescope head for a borescope inspection system is described below in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In the present illustrative example, a cross-sectional view of the borescope inspection head 108 is shown. As described, the borescope inspection head 108, which includes a borescope inspection housing 500, is a platform for a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor array 502, an interference filter 504, an illumination diode 506, an illumination diode 508, and a lens 510.

[0078] The borescope inspection housing 500 is Figure 2 An example of an implementation of the borescope inspection housing 218 is shown in block form in FIG. 5. As described, the borescope inspection housing 500 is formed from aluminum.

[0079] The CMOS sensor array 502 and the interference filter 504 are both located inside the borescope inspection housing 500. The CMOS sensor array 502 is located behind the interference filter 504. The illumination diode 506 and the illumination diode 508 are associated with the borescope inspection housing 500.

[0080] The lens 510 is located in an opening 512 in the borescope inspection housing 500. As described, the lens 510 seals the opening 512 in the borescope inspection housing 500, where a response passes through the lens 510 to the interference filter 504.

[0081] In this illustrative example, the lens 510 can take various forms. For example, the lens 510 can allow a response to pass through without changing the response. In other illustrative examples, the lens 510 can be selected from one of a doublet lens, a Fresnel lens, a polarizing lens, or some other suitable type of lens.

[0082] When sealing is present, the sealing can be a hermetic seal for the borescope inspection housing 500. Additionally, the borescope inspection housing 500 can be filled with a fluid, such as nitrogen, helium, or some other inert gas, in a manner that provides a positive pressure within the borescope inspection housing 500. In another illustrative example, a vacuum can be applied to the borescope inspection housing 500 to create a negative pressure.

[0083] As described, the CMOS sensor array 502 is Figure 2 An example of an embodiment of the sensor array 230 is shown in block form in FIG. 6. An interference filter 504 in front of the CMOS sensor array 502 is Figure 2 An example of the filter 228 is shown in block form in FIG. 7. In this illustrative example, the interference filter 504 has a wedge shape and is multi-layered so that different wavelengths are passed over different portions of the interference filter 504 in the direction of the arrow 514 when a response 516 is received through a lens 510 in an opening 512 in the borescope inspection housing 500.

[0084] The illumination diodes 506 and 508 are associated with the borescope inspection housing 500 so as to emit electromagnetic radiation in the form of light. For example, the illumination diode 506 emits light 518 and the illumination diode 508 emits light 520. The light from these light-emitting diodes can have a range of frequencies.

[0085] For example, the illumination diodes 506 and 508 can each emit light at different wavelengths. For example, the illumination diode 506 can emit visible light, while the illumination diode 508 can emit near-infrared (IR) light.

[0086] For example, there can be other illumination diodes that emit light at the same wavelengths as the illumination diodes 506 and 508, or at other wavelengths, such as ultraviolet light, mid-infrared light, far-infrared light, or light having other wavelengths.

[0087] Turning next to Figure 6 a flowchart illustration of a process for inspecting a structure is described in accordance with illustrative embodiments. Figure 6 The process shown in FIG. 8 can be implemented using the borescope system 204 in Figure 2 These operations can be implemented in the analyzer 222 in Figure 2 These operations can be implemented in the analyzer 222 in

[0088] The process begins by sending electromagnetic radiation from an electromagnetic radiation emitting system to a surface on a structure (operation 600). The process filters a response to the electromagnetic radiation using a filter located inside a borescope inspection housing (operation 602). The filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in the response to the electromagnetic radiation directed at the surface on the structure.

[0089] The process generates a two-dimensional image of the surface on the structure with a set of graphical indicators that indicate a set of contaminants that are not visible to the naked eye (operation 606) after which the process terminates. The two-dimensional image is generated using data from the sensor array.

[0090] By the inspection performed in the process of Figure 6 a rework or replacement of the structure can be performed. By using the borescope system 204 of Figure 6 in the process of Figure 2 the inspection allows for the identification of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye and has the ability to make inspections at locations on the surface that are not easily accessible.

[0091] Turning to Figure 7 a diagram of a flowchart of a process for controlling sensors in a sensor array is described according to an illustrative embodiment. The process shown in this example can be used to select wavelengths to be detected as part of a wavelength windowing.

[0092] The process begins by selecting a set of wavelengths desired to be detected by the sensor array (operation 700). The selection of the set of wavelengths can be based on wavelengths of potential inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure. That is, these wavelengths are the wavelengths that are received when potential inconsistencies exist on the surface on the structure. The process selectively activates a set of sensors to form a wavelength window that receives a set of wavelengths of the number of wavelengths (operation 702) after which the process terminates.

[0093] Reference is now made to Figure 8 a diagram of a flowchart of a process for controlling electromagnetic radiation sources in an electromagnetic radiation emission system is described according to an illustrative embodiment. The process shown in this example can be used to select wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation to be transmitted toward a surface on a structure.

[0094] The process begins by selecting a set of desired wavelengths (operation 800). The set of desired wavelengths is selected based on wavelengths of potential inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure.

[0095] The process selectively activates electromagnetic radiation sources in the electromagnetic radiation emission system to cause the electromagnetic radiation emission system to emit electromagnetic radiation with the set of desired wavelengths (operation 802). The process terminates thereafter.

[0096] The flow chart and block diagram in the described different embodiments illustrate the architecture, function and operation of some possible embodiments of the device and method in an illustrative embodiment. In this regard, each block in the flow chart or block diagram can represent at least one of a part for a module, section, function or operation or step. For example, one or more blocks can be implemented as a combination of program code, hardware, or program code and hardware. When implemented with hardware, the hardware can, for example, take the form of an integrated circuit, which is manufactured or configured to perform one or more operations in the flow chart or block diagram. When implemented as a combination of program code and hardware, the embodiment can take the form of firmware. Each block in the flow chart or block diagram can be implemented using a dedicated hardware system or a combination of dedicated hardware and the program code run by this dedicated hardware that performs the different operations of dedicated hardware.

[0097] In some alternative implementations of the illustrative embodiments, the functions or functions recorded in the blocks may not occur in the order recorded in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be executed substantially simultaneously, or blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending on the functionality involved. In addition, other blocks may be added in addition to the blocks shown in the flowchart or block diagram.

[0098] Now turn Figure 9 , which depicts an illustration of a block diagram of a data processing system according to an illustrative embodiment. Data processing system 900 may be used to implement Figure 2 256. In this illustrative example, data processing system 900 includes communications framework 902, which provides communications between processor unit 904, memory 906, persistent storage 908, communications unit 910, input / output (I / O) unit 912, and display 914. In this example, communications framework 902 may take the form of a bus system.

[0099] Processor unit 904 serves to execute instructions for software that may be loaded into memory 906. Processor unit 904 may be a number of processors, a multi-processor core, or some other type of processor, depending on the particular implementation.

[0100] Memory 906 and persistent storage 908 are examples of storage devices 916. A storage device is any piece of hardware that is capable of storing information such as, for example, without limitation, data, program code in functional form, and / or other appropriate information either on a temporary basis or a permanent basis in either a non- volatile or a volatile state. Storage devices 916 may

[0101] For example, persistent storage 908 can include one or more components or devices. For example, persistent storage 908 can be a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or some combination of the above. Media used by persistent storage 908 can also be removable. For example, a removable hard disk drive can be used for persistent storage 908.

[0102] In these illustrative examples, communication unit 910 provides communication through the use of either or both the Internet or a local area network to permit the exchange of data to and from data processing system 900. In these illustrative examples, communication unit 910 is a network interface card.

[0103] Input / output unit 912 allows for input and output of data with other devices that can be connected to data processing system 900. For example, input / output unit 912 can provide a connection for user input through a keyboard, a mouse, and / or some other suitable input device. Further, input / output unit 912 can send output to a printer. Display 914 provides a mechanism to display information to a user.

[0104] Instructions for the operating system, the application, and / or the program can be located in storage devices 916, which are in communication with processor unit 904 through communications framework 902. The processes of the different embodiments can be performed by processor unit 904 using computer implemented instructions, which can be located in a memory, such as memory 906.

[0105] These instructions are referred to as program code, computer-usable program code, or computer-readable program code that can be read and executed by a processor in processor unit 904. The program code in the different embodiments can be embodied on different physical computers, such as in different physical storage devices 916 or persistent storage 908.

[0106] Program code 918 is located in functional form on computer-readable medium 920, which is selectively removable and can be loaded onto or transferred to data processing system 900 for execution by processor unit 904. In these illustrative examples, program code 918 and computer-readable medium 920 form computer program product 922. In one example, computer-readable medium 920 may be computer-readable storage medium 924 or computer-readable signal medium 926. In these illustrative examples, computer-readable storage medium 924 is a physical storage device or tangible storage device used to store program code 918, rather than a medium that propagates or transmits program code 918.

[0107] Alternatively, program code 918 can be transferred to data processing system 900 using computer readable signal media 926. Computer readable signal media 926 can be, for example, a propagated data signal containing program code 918. For example, computer readable signal media 926 can be at least one of an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, or any other suitable type of signal. These signals can be transmitted via at least one of a communication link (such as a wireless communication link), a fiber optic cable, a coaxial cable, an electrical wire, or any other suitable type of communication link.

[0108] The illustration of different components for data processing system 900 is not meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in which different embodiments may be implemented. Different illustrative embodiments may be implemented in a data processing system including components in addition to or in place of those illustrated for data processing system 900. Figure 9 Other components shown in FIG can be varied from the illustrative examples shown. The different embodiments can be implemented using any hardware device or system capable of running program code 918.

[0109] You can Figure 10 Aircraft manufacturing and service method 1000 is shown and described. Figure 11 Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the context of the illustrated aircraft 1100. Figure 11 , which depicts an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft manufacturing and service method according to an illustrative embodiment. During pre-production, aircraft manufacturing and service method 1000 may include Figure 11 Specification and design 1002 of the aircraft 1100 and material procurement 1004.

[0110] During production, component and subassembly manufacturing 168 and system integration 1008 of the aircraft 1100 take place. Thereafter, the aircraft 1100 can go through certification and delivery 1010 in order to be placed in service 1012. While in service 1012 by the customer, the aircraft 1100 is periodically maintained and serviced 1014 in accordance with regular schedules and

[0111] Each of the processes of method 1000 of aircraft manufacture and maintenance can be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator, for example. In these examples, the operator can be a customer. For the purposes of this description, a system integrator can include, without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major-system contractors; a third party can include, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator can be an airline, lease company, military entity, maintenance organization, and so on.

[0112] Reference is now made to Figure 10 which depicts an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft in which illustrative embodiments can be implemented. In this example, the aircraft 1100 is produced by Figure 10 the aircraft manufacture and maintenance method 1000 in and can include an airframe 1102 with a plurality of systems 1104 and an interior 1106. Examples of systems 1104 include one or more of a propulsion system 1108, an electrical system 1110, a hydraulic system 1112, and an environmental system 1114. Any number of other systems can also be included. While an aerospace example is shown, different illustrative embodiments can be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry.

[0113] The apparatus and methods presented herein can be used in at least one stage of the aircraft manufacture and maintenance method 1000 in Figure 10 In one illustrative example, components or subassemblies produced in the component and subassembly manufacturing 1006 in Figure 10 may be fabricated or manufactured in a similar manner as components or subassemblies produced when the aircraft 1100 is placed in service 1012 in Figure 10 As yet another example, one or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments or combinations thereof can be utilized in a production phase, such as in the component and subassembly manufacturing 1006 and system integration 1008 in Figure 2 For example, the borescope system 204 in Figure 10 may be used during the time when structures, such as composite structures, are laid up and cured, during the production of any components or subassemblies in the component and subassembly manufacturing 1006.

[0114] when the aircraft 1100 is in service 1012, during routine scheduled maintenance, and during an overhaul.Figure 2 During repair and maintenance 1014 in the composite structure 206, or both, one or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combination thereof can be utilized. For example, Figure 10 The borescope system 204 in the composite structure 206 can be used to perform inspections of the composite structure 206 to determine whether inconsistencies requiring repair exist. Figure 2 The borescope system 204 in the composite structure 206 can be used during repair and maintenance 1014 to perform inspections of the aircraft to determine whether inconsistencies requiring repair exist.

[0115] The use of several different illustrative embodiments can greatly speed up the assembly of the aircraft 1100, reduce the cost of the aircraft 1100, or both speed up the assembly of the aircraft 1100 and reduce the cost of the aircraft 1100. The use of the borescope system 204 in the composite structure 206 reduces the time required to perform inspections of locations in the structure that can be difficult to access with currently used inspection systems, thereby performing hyperspectral analysis to determine whether inconsistencies exist on the surface of the structure. Figure 2 The use of the borescope system 204 in the composite structure 206 reduces the time required to perform inspections of locations in the structure that can be difficult to access with currently used inspection systems, thereby performing hyperspectral analysis to determine whether inconsistencies exist on the surface of the structure.

[0116] Accordingly, the one or more illustrative examples provided have technical solutions that overcome technical problems of inspecting composite structures that have limited access to appropriate locations. For example, in the composite structure 206, the borescope system 204 provides the ability to perform hyperspectral analysis 248 on the surface 214 of the structure 206 in a manner that is not currently available with current inspection systems. By having the ability to perform hyperspectral analysis 248 at a variety of different locations, the time and effort required to inspect the structure to determine whether inconsistencies exist can be reduced. ​

[0117] The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the forms disclosed. The different illustrative examples describe components that perform actions or operations. In illustrative embodiments, the components can be configured to perform the actions or operations described. For instance, a component can have a configuration or design that provides the component with the ability to perform an action or operation described in an illustrative example as being performed by the component.

[0118] Further, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

[0119] Clause 1. An apparatus comprising:

[0120] a borescope inspection housing;

[0121] an electromagnetic radiation emission system associated with the borescope inspection housing, wherein the electromagnetic radiation emission system is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation;

[0122] ​a filter positioned inside the borescope housing, wherein the filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in a response to electromagnetic radiation directed at a surface on a structure, wherein the response is received through an opening in the borescope housing; and

[0123] a sensor array positioned inside the borescope housing behind the filter, wherein the sensor array includes sensors configured to generate data from the number of wavelengths passed by the filter such that a hyperspectral analysis of the surface on the structure is enabled.

[0124] Clause 2. The apparatus of clause 1, further comprising:

[0125] an analyzer in communication with the sensor array, wherein the analyzer selectively activates a set of sensors in the sensor array, thereby forming a wavelength window that receives a set of wavelengths in the number of wavelengths.

[0126] Clause 3. The apparatus of clause 2, wherein the set of wavelengths is selected based on a set of inconsistent wavelengths that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure.

[0127] Clause 4. The apparatus of clause 1, further comprising:

[0128] an analyzer in communication with the electromagnetic radiation emission system, wherein the analyzer selectively activates electromagnetic radiation sources in the electromagnetic radiation emission system to cause the electromagnetic radiation emission system to emit electromagnetic radiation having a set of desired wavelengths.

[0129] Clause 5. The apparatus of clause 4, wherein the set of desired wavelengths is selected based on a set of inconsistent wavelengths that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure.

[0130] Clause 6. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the response is from a location on the surface and the apparatus further comprises:

[0131] an analyzer in communication with the sensor array and configured to cause the sensor array to generate data from the response received from the electromagnetic radiation directed at the surface on the structure and generate a two-dimensional image of the surface on the structure having a set of graphical indicators that indicate a set of inconsistencies at the location that are not visible to the naked eye.

[0132] Clause 7. The apparatus of clause 6, wherein the analyzer is in communication with the sensor array using at least one of an electrical wire, an optical fiber, or a wireless connection.

[0133] Clause 8. The apparatus of clause 1, further comprising:

[0134] An elongated member associated with a borescope inspection housing to form a borescope system, wherein the elongated member is selected from one of a rigid elongated member, a flexible elongated member, a cable, a tube, and a pipe.

[0135] Clause 9. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the filter is an interference filter.

[0136] Clause 10. The apparatus of clause 1, further comprising:

[0137] A lens sealing an opening in the borescope inspection housing, wherein the response passes through the lens to reach the filter.

[0138] Clause 11. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the sensors are selected from a group of sensors selected from at least one of a charge-coupled device, a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor device, an indium antimonide semiconductor device, or a mercury cadmium telluride semiconductor device.

[0139] Clause 12. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the electromagnetic radiation emission system comprises a group of electromagnetic radiation sources selected from at least one of a light-emitting diode, a halogen bulb, or an incandescent bulb.

[0140] Clause 13. The apparatus of clause 1, wherein the structure is selected from one of an uncured composite structure, a cured composite structure, a part, an assembly, a wing, a composite skin panel, a horizontal stabilizer, a spar, a rib, a ply of prepreg material, an engine case, a wing box, a duct, and a pipe.

[0141] Clause 14. A hyperspectral borescope system, comprising:

[0142] A borescope inspection housing for a borescope;

[0143] A pipe associated with the borescope inspection housing of the borescope;

[0144] An electromagnetic radiation emission system associated with the borescope inspection housing, wherein the electromagnetic radiation emission system is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation;

[0145] A filter within the borescope inspection housing, wherein the filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in a response to the electromagnetic radiation directed onto a surface on a structure, wherein the response is received through an opening in the borescope inspection housing;

[0146] An array of sensors within the borescope inspection housing behind the filter, wherein the array of sensors comprises sensors configured to generate data from the number of wavelengths passed by the filter; and

[0147] an analyzer in communication with the sensor array and configured to cause the sensor array to generate data from the response received from the electromagnetic radiation directed at the surface on the structure and generate a two-dimensional image of the surface on the structure having a set of graphical indicators that indicate a set of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye.

[0148] Clause 15. The hyperspectral borescope system of clause 14, wherein the analyzer is configured to selectively activate a set of sensors to form a wavelength window that receives a set of wavelengths from the number of wavelengths, wherein the set of wavelengths is selected based on a set of wavelengths of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure.

[0149] Clause 16. The hyperspectral borescope system of clause 14, wherein the analyzer is configured to selectively activate the electromagnetic radiation source to cause the electromagnetic radiation emission system to emit electromagnetic radiation having a set of desired wavelengths, wherein the set of desired wavelengths is selected based on a set of wavelengths of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure.

[0150] Clause 17. A method for inspecting a structure, the method comprising:

[0151] sending electromagnetic radiation from an electromagnetic radiation emission system to a surface on the structure;

[0152] filtering the response to the electromagnetic radiation using a filter positioned inside a borescope inspection housing, wherein the filter is configured to pass a number of wavelengths in the response to the electromagnetic radiation directed at the surface on the structure;

[0153] generating data from the number of wavelengths from the number of wavelengths using a sensor array that receives the number of wavelengths passed through the filter; and

[0154] generating a two-dimensional image of the surface on the structure having a set of graphical indicators that indicate a set of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye, wherein the two-dimensional image is generated using the data from the sensor array.

[0155] Clause 18. The method of clause 17, further comprising:

[0156] selectively activating a set of sensors to form a wavelength window that receives a set of wavelengths from the number of wavelengths, wherein the set of wavelengths is selected based on a set of wavelengths of inconsistencies that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface on the structure.

[0157] Clause 19. The method of clause 17, further comprising:

[0158] selectively activating electromagnetic radiation sources in the electromagnetic radiation emission system to cause the electromagnetic radiation emission system to emit electromagnetic radiation having a set of desired wavelengths, wherein the set of desired wavelengths is selected based on a set of inconsistent wavelengths that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface of the structure.

[0159] Clause 20. The method of clause 17, wherein the filter is an interference filter.

[0160] Clause 21. The method of clause 17, wherein the structure is selected from one of an uncured composite structure, a cured composite structure, a part, an assembly, a wing, a composite skin panel, a horizontal stabilizer, a spar, a rib, a prepreg layer, an engine case, a wing box, a duct, and a tube.

[0161] Many modifications and variations of this application can be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Additionally, different illustrative embodiments can provide different features and can provide different advantages than other embodiments. One embodiment or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments. One or more embodiments selected or described can be utilized independently or in combination with other embodiments.

Claims

1. A borescope system (204), comprising: Borescope inspection housing (218); an electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) associated with the borescope inspection housing (218), wherein the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation (232); a filter (228) located within the borescope inspection housing (218), wherein the filter (228) is configured to pass a plurality of wavelengths (236) in a response (238) to the electromagnetic radiation (232) directed toward a surface (240) on a structure (206), wherein the response (238) is received through an opening (242) in the borescope inspection housing (218); and A sensor array (230) is located behind the filter (228) within the borescope inspection housing (218), wherein the sensor array (230) includes sensors configured to generate data (246) from the plurality of wavelengths (236) passed by the filter (228) to enable hyperspectral analysis (248) of the surface (240) on the structure (206).

2. The borescope system (204) of claim 1, further comprising: An analyzer (222) in communication with the sensor array (230), wherein the analyzer (222) selectively activates a set of sensors (244) in the sensor array (230) to form a wavelength window (302) that receives a set of wavelengths (304) from the plurality of wavelengths (236), and wherein the set of wavelengths (304) is selected based on a set of inconsistent (212) wavelengths that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface (240) on the structure (206).

3. The borescope system (204) of claim 1, further comprising: An analyzer (222) in communication with the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226), wherein the analyzer (222) selectively activates an electromagnetic radiation (232) source in the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) to cause the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) to emit the electromagnetic radiation (232) having a set of desired wavelengths (402), and wherein the set of desired wavelengths (402) is selected based on a set of inconsistent (212) wavelengths that are not visible to the naked eye on the surface (240) on the structure (206).

4. The borescope system (204) of claim 1, wherein the response (238) is from a location on the surface (240), and the borescope system (204) further comprises: an analyzer (222) in communication with the sensor array (230) and configured to cause the sensor array (230) to generate the data (246) based on the responses (238) received from the electromagnetic radiation (232) directed at the surface (240) on the structure (206) and to generate a two-dimensional image (250) of the surface (240) on the structure (206) having a set of graphical indicators (254) indicating a set of inconsistencies (212) in the locations that are not visible to the naked eye, and wherein the analyzer (222) communicates with the sensor array (230) using at least one of a wired, optical fiber, or wireless connection.

5. The borescope system (204) of claim 1, wherein the filter (228) is an interference filter (228).

6. The borescope system (204) of claim 1, further comprising: A lens (510) seals the opening (242) in the borescope inspection housing (218), wherein the response (238) passes through the lens (510) to reach the filter (228).

7. The borescope system (204) of claim 1, wherein the sensor is selected from a group of sensors (244), the group of sensors (244) being selected from at least one of a charge coupled device, a complementary metal oxide semiconductor device, an indium antimonide semiconductor device (InSb semiconductor device), or a mercury cadmium telluride semiconductor device (HgCdTe semiconductor device), and wherein the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) includes a group of electromagnetic radiation (232) sources, the group of electromagnetic radiation (232) sources being selected from at least one of a light emitting diode, a halogen bulb, or an incandescent bulb.

8. A method for inspecting a structure (206), the method comprising: transmitting electromagnetic radiation (232) from the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) to a surface (240) on the structure (206); filtering a response (238) to the electromagnetic radiation (232) using an interference filter (504) located within a borescope inspection housing (218), wherein the filter (228) is configured to pass a plurality of wavelengths (236) in the response (238) to the electromagnetic radiation (232) directed toward the surface (240) on the structure (206); generating data (246) from the number of wavelengths (236) from the number of wavelengths (236) passed through the filter (228) using a sensor array (230); and A two-dimensional image (250) of the surface (240) on the structure (206) is generated with a set of graphical indicators (254) indicating a set of inconsistencies (212) that are not visible to the naked eye, wherein the two-dimensional image (250) is generated using data (246) from the sensor array (230).

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: A set of sensors (244) is selectively activated to form a wavelength window (302) that receives a set of wavelengths (304) from the plurality of wavelengths (236), wherein the set of wavelengths (304) is selected based on the wavelengths of the set of inconsistencies (212) being invisible to the naked eye on the surface (240) on the structure (206).

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: A source of electromagnetic radiation (232) in the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) is selectively activated to cause the electromagnetic radiation emitting system (226) to emit the electromagnetic radiation (232) having a set of desired wavelengths (402), wherein the set of desired wavelengths (402) is selected based on the set of inconsistent (212) wavelengths being invisible to the naked eye on the surface (240) on the structure (206).

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