Multilayer Structure Characterization Using Transient Electromagnetic Radiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for characterizing multilayer structures, such as those in materials like rubber and composite materials, face challenges due to absorption of sound energy by polymers, scattering of ultrasonic waves by mesh or fabric, and difficulty in detecting delamination and micro-structural defects in High Density Polyethylene piping systems, which are not effectively addressed by existing non-destructive testing techniques.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using continuous wave electromagnetic radiation to determine layer thickness, complex dielectric permittivity, and magnetic susceptibility by capturing and deconvolving transient reflection or transmission signals from layer-based structures, allowing for non-destructive characterization without the need for multiple frequencies or access to both sides of the material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ultrasonic testing is used for new materials like rubber or soft plastic, then the testing can be performed on traditional materials, but the polymers absorb nearly all sound energy and reflect essentially no sound waves making the method ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the testing method from acoustic waves (ultrasonic) to electromagnetic waves (microwave/radar). This parameter change allows the method to work on materials that absorb acoustic energy, such as rubber and soft plastics, because electromagnetic waves interact differently with these materials and can penetrate or reflect off them effectively for detection purposes.
2Measurement precision
If radiography is used to detect bulk density changes, then density variations can be detected, but delamination failures that do not result in detectable density changes cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radiographic method (which relies on density-based attenuation of X-rays or gamma rays) with an electromagnetic resonance method using microwaves or radar. This substitution allows detection of delamination and other defects that do not cause bulk density changes, as the method detects changes in electromagnetic field distribution and resonance characteristics rather than relying on density variations.
3Ease of operation
If Durometer Testing is used for nondestructive testing of rubber parts, then rubber joints can be tested, but the method has poor practical utility and requires needle penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical needle-based Durometer Testing method with an electromagnetic field-based method. This substitution eliminates the need for physical needle penetration and strain gauge connections, allowing for truly nondestructive testing that is easier to perform and can be automated. The electromagnetic method can test rubber parts without physical contact or damage while providing comprehensive defect detection.
4Productivity
If traditional inspection methods are used for butt fusion joints in HDPE piping, then inspection can be performed, but micro-structural defects that do not result in acoustic reflector or impedance difference cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional ultrasonic inspection methods with electromagnetic resonance imaging using microwaves or radar. This substitution enables detection of micro-structural defects in HDPE butt fusion joints that do not create acoustic reflectors or impedance differences. The electromagnetic method detects subtle variations in material properties and defect characteristics that are invisible to acoustic methods, significantly improving detection precision while maintaining productivity.
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 accurate determination of geometric and electromagnetic properties of individual layers in multilayer structures, including layer thickness and defect localization, with improved depth resolution and applicability across various industries, including piping, wind energy, and automotive, using a contact-free and non-destructive approach.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating the layer-based structure repetitively with a electromagnetic wave comprising a transient part from no radiation to steady-state, such that a reflection of the electromagnetic wave at, or a transmission through, different interfaces of the layer-based structure repetitively generates series of reflected or transmitted parts
Implementation Method 2
The layer-based structure is sufficiently transparent to the used electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining characteristics of a layer-based structure is disclosed. The method comprises repetitively irradiating the layer-based structure with a transient continuous wave electromagnetic radiation and capturing as a function of time a transient part of the reflection or transmission of the transient continuous wave electromagnetic radiation reflected at or transmitted through the different interfaces of layer-based structure. The method furthermore comprises deriving from the transient part of the reflected or transmitted transient continuous wave electromagnetic radiation as function of time information regarding different contributions in the transient part of the reflected or transmitted transient continuous wave electromagnetic radiation stemming from the reflections at different interfaces of the layer-based structure and determining from said information at least geometric information and/or electromagnetic properties of the different layers of the layer based structure. A corresponding system also is claimed.