초록 ▼

Method and apparatus for the non-destructive monitoring of the time dependent curing of an advanced composite positioned within an autoclave where it is subjected to varying pressures and elevated temperatures over a predetermined time period. A tool receiving the uncured advanced composite for rece

Method and apparatus for the non-destructive monitoring of the time dependent curing of an advanced composite positioned within an autoclave where it is subjected to varying pressures and elevated temperatures over a predetermined time period. A tool receiving the uncured advanced composite for receiving an acoustic wave guide which directly coupled to the composite. Ultrasound pulses are directed through the acoustic wave guide and the amplitude of the reflected pulses indicate changes in the modulus of the composite during the cure.

대표청구항 ▼

A non-destructive method for monitoring the time dependent curing of an advanced composite positioned within an autoclave where it is subjected to varying pressure and temperature over a predetermined period of time, which method comprises: positioning an uncured advanced composite secured within a

A non-destructive method for monitoring the time dependent curing of an advanced composite positioned within an autoclave where it is subjected to varying pressure and temperature over a predetermined period of time, which method comprises: positioning an uncured advanced composite secured within a vacuum bag and carried by a tool within an autoclave; varying the heat and pressure within the autoclave over a predetermined period of time to cure the composite; coupling an acoustic waveguide to one side of the uncured advanced composite by extending said acoustic waveguide through an aperture provided in said tool so that the wave guide may be directly coupled to a surface of the composite; directing a pulse of ultrasound energy through the waveguide to the side of the advanced composite; and analyzing the ultrasound energy reflected from the side of the advanced composite to determine the modulus of the advanced composite at a particular point in its curing.