Patent ID: 7983469
Filing Date: 2011-07-19
Classification: G01N,G06T

Abstract:
1. A method for determining an inconsistency characteristic of a composite structure that is formed from a plurality of independent composite lengths of material forming a plurality of adjacent, courses, and where the courses are laid down using a compaction component and examined for inconsistencies virtually immediately after being laid down, the method comprising: using a camera moveable with the compaction component to capture images of a surface of the composite structure as each one of the courses of the composite lengths of material are being laid down by the compaction component; using a sensor moveable with the compaction component to determine a first distance from a first reference point of the composite structure to an inconsistency detected from one of the images captured by the camera, by determining a linear velocity of the compaction component as the compaction component lays down one of the courses that forms the composite structure, and a time of travel of the compaction component from the first reference point along the one course to the inconsistency; determining a second distance from a second reference point of the composite structure to the inconsistency; using the first and second distances to establish a reference area of the composite structure; and considering each said inconsistency detected within the reference area and producing therefrom an inconsistency characteristic representative of the composite structure.