Introduction

The proposed invention consists of an instrument and a methodology for measuring the local elastic properties (longitudinal and tangential modulus of elasticity, Poisson’s ratio) of components of anisotropic material. The invention allows a quantitative and non-destructive assessment of the elastic properties for the quality control of the component considered and / or for monitoring the structural integrity in operation.

Technical features

The product of the invention is an equipment capable of evaluating the local elastic properties in a specific and limited region of a component in composite material. This objective is pursued through the joint use of a tool, suitable for carrying out the measurements, and an algorithm, aimed at calculating the local elastic properties starting from the measurements made. The instrument is able to isolate a specific region of the component and carries out vibrational measurements. Finally, the algorithm allows to evaluate the elastic properties of the isolated region, through a vibrational analysis that is based on the technique known in the literature under the name of Impulse Excitation Technique (IET). The invention allows its application directly on structural components, such as the wing of an airplane or the body of a car, isolating a specific portion. Unlike other non-destructive techniques, vibrational analysis allows a quantitative evaluation of any anomalies that may be present.

TRL: 4

Possible Applications

• Design, production and construction of composite material structures
• Validation of production processes
• Monitoring of elastic properties during exercise

Advantages

• High accuracy in the calculation of elastic properties
• Quantitative evaluation of the mechanical properties of the component
• Low cost compared to other techniques
• No qualified personnel is required
• Extremely fast in measurement