ABSTRACT
Two-dimensional ultrasonic phased arrays are becoming increasingly popular in nondestructive evaluation (NDE). Sparse array element configurations are required to fully exploit the potential benefits of 2-D phased arrays. This paper applies the conformal mapping technique as a means of designing sparse 2-D array layouts for NDE applications. Modeling using both Huygens' field prediction theory and 2-D fast Fourier transformation is employed to study the resulting new structure. A conformal power map was used that, for fixed beam width, was shown in simulations to have a greater contrast than rectangular or random arrays. A prototype aperiodic 2-D array configuration for direct contact operation in steel, with operational frequency ~3 MHz, was designed using the array design principle described in this paper. Experimental results demonstrate a working sparse-array transducer capable of performing volumetric imaging.
Subject(s)
Computer-Aided Design , Materials Testing/instrumentation , Models, Theoretical , Transducers , Ultrasonography/instrumentation , Computer Simulation , Equipment Design , Equipment Failure Analysis , Feasibility Studies , High-Energy Shock Waves , Materials Testing/methods , Scattering, RadiationABSTRACT
An algorithm for an efficient parallel implementation of Snell's law of refraction, applicable to planar interfaces, is found by algebraic manipulation. The algorithm is tailored for general-purpose graphics processing unit (GP-GPU)-type processors. Numerical singularity in the solution is addressed. Performance is compared against other implementations. Application areas include real-time total focusing method implementation, phased-array probe computer-aided design (CAD), and data fusion.
