Michael L Voss

US Patent:

6848321, Feb 1, 2005

Filed:

Oct 18, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/273514

Inventors:

Richard H. Bossi - Renton WA, US
Kevin R. Housen - Federal Way WA, US
William B. Shepherd - Vashon WA, US
Michael E. Voss - San Diego CA, US

Assignee:

The Boeing Company - Chicago IL

International Classification:

G01N 324

US Classification:

73842, 73844, 73845, 73788

Abstract:

A system and method for non-destructively testing the strength of bonded joints, particularly a bonded joint between two composite components, is provided. The method generally includes activating a source of rapid surface pressure application against a bonded assembly containing the bonded joint to create a shock load. The resulting shock load first generates compression and then tension within the bonded joint, along with surface motions proximate the bonded assembly, and a surface motion detector measures the surface motions to determine the minimum strength of the bonded joint. Accordingly, the surface motions are correlated to the strength of the bonded joint. Further, the magnitude of the impact may be adjusted to vary the amount of tension within the bonded joint to correspond with various load conditions.