Laser induced phased arrays (LIPAs), based on principles of laser ultrasonics, can be used to cut the imaging process in manufacturing to under a second. (Credit: University of Strathclyde)

A pioneering project is aiming to develop a new capability for real-time, remote ultrasonic imaging that can be used for nondestructive evaluation. The project will examine how laser induced phased arrays (LIPAs), based on principles of laser ultrasonics, can be used to cut the imaging process in manufacturing from a half hour to under a second.

The remote arrays, made of light, can be applied in extreme environments, such as in process monitoring or inspection, and will be designed to pick up potential issues to enable the process to be stopped or modified if faults are detected. As well as controlling the manufacturing process itself, it could mean the material could be reworked or improved.

One example of how the technology could be applied is metal 3D printing. Making material that is stiffer in one place and more flexible in others isn’t currently possible, but the researchers say having a means to control the whole thing as it’s being built, then the material could be tailor made and more complex structures could be made.

Source 

Topics:
Laser Cutting, Marking, Etching Manufacturing & Prototyping Medical

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