Flexible Magneto-Optic Imaging for Non-Planar Defect Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional non-destructive testing techniques, such as fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI), are unable to detect internal defects in materials lacking a surface opening, and eddy current techniques are cumbersome and sensitive to lift-off variations and surface anomalies.

Innovation Solution

A magneto-optic visualization system utilizing a flexible coil and conformable optical elements, integrated with imaging devices like smartphones, to visualize defects in non-planar components, enabling remote access and imaging of defects through magneto-optically derived images or videos.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) is used to visualize defects, then surface defects can be detected, but internal defects without surface openings cannot be detected

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedefect detection capabilityVSAvoiddetection scope

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the detection parameter from optical (FPI) to electromagnetic (eddy current), enabling detection of internal defects without surface openings while maintaining surface defect detection capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The eddy current inspection system is designed to detect both surface and internal defects, providing universal detection capability across different defect types and locations within the material

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If eddy current techniques are used to detect internal defects, then internal defects can be visualized, but the system becomes sensitive to lift-off variations and surface anomalies

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinternal defect detectionVSAvoidsensitivity to lift-off and surface anomalies

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a multi-coil arrangement where multiple coils work together to compensate for the harmful effects of lift-off variations and surface anomalies on eddy current measurements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a reference coil as an intermediary element that measures the lift-off variation, which then serves as a reference signal to compensate for the effects on the measurement coils

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If conventional eddy current techniques are used, then internal defects can be detected, but the system becomes cumbersome and complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedefect detection accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple coils and signal processing functions into an integrated inspection head, merging the excitation, sensing, and reference functions into a single compact unit

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical scanning systems with a stationary multi-coil array that achieves the same inspection function through electromagnetic field distribution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Facilitates simple, flexible, and effective visualization of defects in materials, including non-planar surfaces, with improved accuracy and ease of use, allowing remote viewing and analysis of defects using existing imaging devices.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagneto-optic effect: Magneto-Optic Effects

Data Source

PatentEP4310484B1Magneto-optic defect visualization system

Publication Date: 2025.08.27 GENERAL ELECTRIC CO

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AI summary

A magneto-optic imaging apparatus (200) adapted for use with an imaging device (300), such as a smartphone, tablet computer, or borescope, for visually detecting flaws (12) in the surface (14) or subsurface (16) of a component (10) using a magneto-optic effect. The magneto-optic imaging apparatus (200) includes a housing (220) with an interface (222) for connection with the imaging device (300) such that a camera (310) and light source (320) of the imaging device (300) may be implemented for magneto-optic visualization. The housing (220) includes optical elements including one or more filters (224), a polarizer (226), a magneto-optic or garnet film (230), and an analyzer (238). The housing (220) also includes a flexible coil (232) or electrical terminals (236) for inducing a magnetic field in the component (10). The magneto-optic imaging apparatus (200) may include a translucent or transparent body of conformable material or materials (228) to conform the magneto-optic film (230) and flexible coil (232) to a non-planar surface (14) of the component (10).