Patent ID: 7292029
Filing Date: 2007-11-06
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for detecting substructure, comprising the steps of: nondestructively scanning an assembly using a substructure scanning system including a precision motion carriage, a first probe positioner movably coupled to said precision motion carriage such that it can move in a first direction relative to said precision motion carriage, a second probe positioner located above said first probe positioner and movably coupled to said precision motion carriage such that it can move in a second direction relative to said precision motion carriage, and a nondestructive scanning sensor located in an opening of said first probe positioner and in an opening of said second probe positioner of said precision motion carriage; positioning said assembly including a substructure covered with an outer skin under said substructure scanning system; positioning said scanning sensor on said outer skin of said assembly; moving said scanning sensor over said outer skin with said first probe positioner and said second probe positioner of said precision motion carriage, wherein moving said scanning sensor is accomplished by moving said first probe positioner and/or said second probe positioner such that said scanning sensor moves within the opening of the first probe positioner and/or within the opening of the second probe positioner; locating said substructure through said outer skin by evaluating signals received from said scanning sensor; and controlling an assembly process using said location of said substructure.