Multi-Modal Failure Detection in Composite Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermographic techniques cannot determine the causal sequence, precise location, and depth of failure events in composite structures, especially under dynamic loading, which is crucial for validating structural models and designing improved composite structures.
Innovation Solution
A multi-modal system combining infrared imaging and acoustic emission sensing, synchronized with X-ray imaging, to detect thermal and acoustic signals corresponding to failure events, allowing for the determination of the initial time, location, and depth of failure events by correlating acoustic, thermal, and X-ray data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If transient flash thermographic methods are used to locate flaws, then the position of flaws can be determined, but the causal sequence of events creating these flaws cannot be assigned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines acoustic emission sensing with infrared thermographic imaging to create a multi-modal system. The acoustic sensors detect the timing and location of failure events while the infrared camera captures thermal releases, allowing both precise location determination and causal sequence assignment through synchronized multi-parameter measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thermal release as an intermediary signal that bridges acoustic detection and visual imaging. The thermal release from a failure event serves as a measurable indicator that can be correlated with acoustic signals to establish causal sequences while maintaining spatial precision.
2Reliability
If conventional non-destructive testing techniques are used, then material defects can be detected, but the detection process is slow and cannot keep up with dynamic loading events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous acoustic monitoring and real-time thermal imaging before, during, and after loading events. This preliminary and continuous detection approach allows the system to capture fast dynamic failure events as they occur, rather than detecting them after the fact with slower conventional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces slow conventional mechanical scanning inspection methods with field-based acoustic and thermal sensing that can simultaneously monitor entire structures in real-time, dramatically increasing detection speed while maintaining reliability.
3Measurement precision
If multi-modal sensing is implemented to capture complete failure information, then precise location and depth determination is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the system so that a single multi-modal sensor array performs multiple functions: acoustic emission detection, thermal release imaging, and correlated analysis. This universal approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate testing systems, managing complexity while achieving comprehensive measurement capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise location and depth determination of failure events in composite samples, providing a complete description of failure evolution and eliminating time delays in detection, thus enhancing the validation of structural models and design improvements.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor configured to detect acoustic energy corresponding to the failure event in the sample
Implementation Method 2
an infrared camera configured to detect a thermal release of energy corresponding to the failure event in the sample
Data Source
AI summary
A system for locating a failure event in a sample is disclosed. The system includes at least one sensor configured to detect acoustic energy corresponding to the failure event in the sample. The system also includes an infrared camera configured to detect a thermal release of energy corresponding to the failure event in the sample.