Nondestructive Testing Using TRW Acousto-Optical Imaging System
Abstract
The technique of Acousto-Optical Imaging (AOI) enables one to 'see', on a real-time basis, within optically opaque materials and to detect internal or surface flaws and/or other irregularities which might be present. The process uses an ultrasonic beam to probe the object under study. As it interacts with the object, the ultrasonic beam acquires an acoustical 'picture' of the object. The acoustic waves then interact with a monochromatic light beam (as from a laser). Optical sidebands are produced by the Bragg diffraction of light. The cumulative result of this process is that these sidebands produce a visual image of the interior of the object. This paper discusses the results of an experimental study to evaluate the applicability of acousto-optical imaging to nondestructive testing. In addition to the determination of the system resolution, the effects of specimen thickness, geometry, composition and surface roughness are under investigation. A new technique which utilizes the sound reflected from the specimen to obtain an acousto-optical image was also developed. Preliminary results utilizing this technique to detect surface flaws on a specimen are encouraging.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0723434
Entities
People
- Jerold L. Jacoby
- Pravin G. Bhuta
- Robert Aprahamian