Patent ID: 7508971
Filing Date: 2009-03-24
Classification: G01B,G06T

Abstract:
1. A system for identifying defects in a workpiece comprising: a sensor for non-destructive testing, wherein the sensor is configured to provide a signal within a workpiece and acquire data indicative of the workpiece based on the signal; a movable arm carrying the sensor and being pivotally attached to a base, wherein the movable arm comprises at least one pivotable joint between the base and the sensor, wherein the movable arm is capable of being moved manually along the workpiece such that the sensor acquires data indicative of the workpiece as the sensor travels proximate to the workpiece, and wherein the sensor and movable arm are portable and configured to inspect the workpiece at one or more locations that are remote from a central inspection location; a stylus coupled to the sensor and the moveable arm, wherein a user is capable of grasping the stylus and manually moving the sensor along the workpiece such that the sensor acquires data indicative of the workpiece as the sensor travels proximate to the workpiece; and a data acquisition system comprising a computer processor and capable of communicating with the sensor such that the data acquisition system creates an image of at least a portion of the workpiece including any defects based on the data acquired by the sensor.