Composite inspection and structural check of multiple layers

摘要

Provided are methods, systems, and computer program products for inspecting composite items. Specifically, a method involves analyzing an image of or, more generally, data characterizing condition of a top layer, which is disposed over a bottom layer. The method also involves performing a structural integrity check based on any anomalies detected in the top layer during this analysis as well as based on any anomalies previously detected in the bottom layer. As such, this structural integrity check accounts for characteristics of multiple layers, in some embodiments, all layers applied up to point of this inspection. In addition to the detected anomalies, the structural integrity check may account for previously performed repairs. The structural integrity check may be performed on individual portions of a composite item while, for example, other portions continue receiving a new composite layer, which may be referred to as an inline inspection.

主权项

1. A method of inspecting a composite item, the method comprising:
receiving, at a receiving module, an image of a portion of a top composite layer of a composite fabrication system, wherein the top composite layer is disposed over at least one bottom composite layer; analyzing the image at a detection module to detect anomalies on the portion of the top composite layer based on stored anomalies in an anomaly database; and generating a 3D anomaly map by integrating any detected anomalies on the portion of the top composite layer and previously detected anomalies on an underlying portion of the at least one bottom composite layer; performing a structural integrity check at a processor based on the 3D anomaly map; and generating a course of action for repairing the top composite layer, wherein the course of action is adjusted in real-time based on the results of the structural integrity check.