The Effect of the Position Determination Error for Flexible Linear Array Elements on the Tomogram Focusing

Area of Science:

• Non-destructive testing
• Ultrasonic imaging
• Acoustic metrology

Background:

• Accurate tomogram focusing is essential for effective ultrasonic inspection, especially for complex geometries like curved surfaces.
• Flexible acoustic arrays offer advantages in inspecting such objects but require precise element positioning for optimal performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically and experimentally determine acceptable deviation limits for flexible acoustic array element coordinates.
• To evaluate the impact of coordinate deviations on tomogram focusing quality during ultrasonic inspection of curved surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Tomogram reconstruction using the total focusing method.
• Assessment of tomogram focusing quality using the Strehl ratio.
• Simulation and experimental validation with convex and concave curved arrays.

Main Results:

• Established that flexible acoustic array element coordinates can be determined with an error not exceeding 0.18λ (wavelength).
• Demonstrated that maintaining this precision results in a sharply focused tomogram image.
• Validated the findings through both simulated and experimental ultrasonic inspection procedures.

Conclusions:

• Precise control over flexible acoustic array element coordinates is critical for high-quality tomogram focusing in ultrasonic inspection.
• The defined deviation limits (≤0.18λ) ensure reliable and accurate imaging of curved surfaces.
• This research provides a foundational understanding for developing advanced ultrasonic inspection techniques for complex geometries.