What is this invention?

Apparatus and method for bond inspection with limited access

If you are looking for a way to inspect internal bonds in a composite structure with limited access, look no further than the new technology offered by The Boeing Company - laser bond inspection (LBI). This process is becoming increasingly popular because it solves the problem of having to reach into delicate areas of a component or structure to perform an LBI.One of the main benefits of using LBI is that it allows for inspections in locations that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to access. For example, if you're trying to inspect an internal bond on a helicopter rotor blade, traditional methods would require removing the entire blade - something that might not always be possible or desirable. With LBI, however, you can use a small-format process head which has articulated joints allowing it to get close enough to the bond without having to remove everything else. Plus, debris from the LBI process is shielded from blow-back so there's less chance of damage being done.

LBI is a process used to inspect internal bonds in composites. The technology allows for access to locations within ½ inch of a nearby wall or structure, which improves the efficiency of the inspection process. The small-format process head incorporates articulated joints that make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and protect the optics from any debris that may be created during the LBI procedure.

What are some key features of the invention?

• LBI technology for inspection of internal bonds in a composite structure with limited access

• Small format process head specifically designed for LBI in limited access spaces

• Joints that improve accessibility to locations within the structure being inspected

• Optics protected from blowback

What are some similar inventions on the market?

Laser Bond Inspection is one of the newer technologies on the market, so there are not many products that are similar. One possible product that may be comparable would be laser drilling. Both technologies use a laser to create a hole in an object, and they both have advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

How could this be used?

Laser bond inspection (LBI) is a process used to inspect the integrity of internal bonds in composite materials. Traditionally, LBI has been difficult to perform due to limited access to the area being inspected. With this new small-format process head, however, access is now possible through selection of optics, an articulated optical path and simplification of the method of collecting debris. This makes LBI a viable option for inspecting internal bonds in composites with restricted space availability.

What are some things to look out for with this?

There are a few potential risks to using LBI. First, the technology may not be able to access all internal bonds within composites due to their small size and limited movement capabilities. Second, if debris is left on the optics during the inspection process, it could potentially hinder visibility or damage equipment.

What are the overall impressions of this invention?

The product seems to be reasonably effective and fairly priced. I'm not sure if it is the best option for all applications, but it may be a good choice for some.

Final comment expressed in a poem (written by an A.I.)

There once was a tech that could save
You from making a very bad mistake.
With LBI, you can see
In spaces small and tight,
All thanks to this nifty process head.

Who owns this patent?

The Boeing Company

Document Number: 11215552