Patent ID: 8816680
Filing Date: 2014-08-26
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. An eddy current array probe assembly configured to perform eddy current inspection of a test object with a test surface, the assembly comprising: a thin-film eddy current array of coils configured to be placed parallel and against the test surface, and a corresponding eddy current circuitry operable to excite and receive eddy current from the array of coils, the array of coils forming at least a first inspection channel and a second inspection channel, wherein the first inspection channel further comprising a first pair of driver coils and receiver coils, wherein centers of the first pair of driver coils form a first driver sensitivity area and centers of the first pair of receiver coils form a first receiver sensitivity area; wherein, in a plan view taken in a direction towards the test surface, the first driver sensitivity area and the first receiver sensitivity area cross and are orthogonal to each other; wherein the second inspection channel further comprising a second pair of driver coils and receiver coils, wherein centers of the second pair of driver coils form a second driver sensitivity area and centers of the second pair of receiver coils form a second receiver sensitivity area; wherein, in a plan view taken in a direction towards the test object, the second driver sensitivity area and the second receiver sensitivity area cross and are orthogonal to each other; wherein the eddy current circuitry is configured and operable in a way that the one of the first pair of driver coils is usable as one of the second pair of driver coils; and one of the first pair of receiver coils is useable as one the second pair of receiver coils.