| Abstract: | An ultrasonic probe deployment device in which an ultrasound-transmitting
liquid forms the portion of the ultrasonic wave path in contact with the
surface being inspected (i.e., the inspection surface). A seal constrains
flow of the liquid, for example preventing the liquid from surging out
and flooding the inspection surface. The seal is not rigid and conforms
to variations in the shape and unevenness of the inspection surface, thus
forming a seal (although possibly a leaky seal) around the liquid. The
probe preferably is held in place to produce optimum ultrasonic focus on
the area of interest. Use of encoders can facilitate the production of
C-scan area maps of the material being inspected. |