Patent ID: 8192075
Filing Date: 2012-06-05
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method of performing ultrasonic testing using ultrasonic transducer elements arranged in an array on an ultrasonic wedge proximate a test object, said method comprising the steps of: receiving temperature readings from a target temperature sensor coupled to the test object and an ambient temperature sensor in position to measure the temperature of ambient air around the test object; determining a temperature gradient of the ultrasonic wedge based at least in part on the temperature reading from the ambient temperature sensor and the temperature reading from the target temperature sensor of the test object, wherein the temperature gradient provides the temperature at any point within the ultrasonic wedge; determining a sound velocity gradient of the ultrasonic wedge based at least in part on the temperature gradient and a known value for velocity of sound for a given wedge material at a given temperature, wherein the sound velocity gradient provides the velocity of sound at any point within the ultrasonic wedge; determining the time it takes for sound waves emanating from the ultrasonic transducer elements attached to the ultrasonic wedge to reach a point of interest within the test object, wherein time is based at least in part on the sound velocity gradient; and firing each of the ultrasonic transducer elements in the array in a timed sequence, the timed sequence based at least in part on time so that sound waves from each of the ultrasonic transducer elements reach the point of interest at the same time.