Current Computed Tomography and Terahertz Efforts at NASA Glenn Research Center

October 30, 2012 2:30PM to 3:30PM

Presenter: 

Don J. Roth, NASA Glenn Research Center

Location: 

Building 208, Room C234

Type: 

Seminar

Series: 

Nuclear Engineering Division Seminar

Abstract:
This talk covers recent technical efforts in the X-ray micro-computed tomography (uCT) and terahertz areas at NASA Glenn Research Center. The first part of the talk will discuss the uCT work being done for the Advanced Stirling Radioisotope Generator program in which NASA is partnering with DOE, Lockheed-Martin, and Sunpower Corp. The focus of this program is to develop an ultra high efficiency, lower mass Stirling convertor for use with a radioisotope, reactor, or solar concentrator heat source for power on beyond-earth-orbit space missions. A high resolution micro-CT system has been assembled and is being used to provide optimal characterization for ultra-thin wall space components in this program.

This talk will discuss many aspects of the development of the CT scanning for this type of component, including CT system overview; inspection requirements; process development, software utilized and developed to visualize, process, and analyze results; calibration sample development; results on actual samples; correlation with optical/SEM characterization; CT modeling; and development of automatic flaw recognition software. In the second part of the talk, the assembly of a terahertz system and its use in computed tomography and reflection modes for NASA thermal and environmental protection system materials will be briefly described. The THz tomography system can inspect samples as large as 0.0283 m3 (1 ft3) with no safety concerns as for x-ray computed tomography. The reflection mode THz capability is being investigated for use in simultaneously characterizing thickness and microstructural quality in coatings with the same set of measurements.

Advanced Photonix announces major contract awards and further development of it's "T-ray 4000"

Yesterday, was an exciting day in the continuing evolution and development of Terahertz applications for use in commercial quality and process control.
Richard Kurtz, CEO, of ADVANCED PHOTONIX (API), notified investors yesterday of several significant developments in the sales and commercial acceptance of it's groundbreaking T-Ray 4000, terahertz portable scanner.
Kurtz noted that a contract for application development of the T-4000, was awarded by the United States Air Force, for the use of the system for quality control in the production of the F-35 fighter jet, being developed by both Northrop Grumman as well as by Lockheed Martin.
Kurtz noted that unlike the scope of earlier sales of the T-4000 to NASA, that this contract represents a very significant marketing opportunity for the company. This contract alone will provide the foundation for future system sales, as well as revenue for T-4000 service contracts,& spare parts, over the next decade.
Kurtz also announced the company has continued to invest and develop new product configurations for the T-4000. Two of these new configurations have resulted in sales, including a computer tomography application which has been delivered to NASA, and a prototype radome scanning system, which has been delivered to Hill AFB. These product application developments were funded by the customers, and pave the way for diverse commercial use.
Kurtz also announce that the company is focusing on significantly reducing the costs of the T-4000 product platform
to further enhance it's commercial acceptance and viability.
Lastly, Kurtz noted that while commercial acceptance of a brand new technology is a long and difficult process, that the company currently is working with two early adopters of the T-4000, for use in industrial control and process control. These customers are pilot trial testing the T-4000 on the factory floor. Two other commerical customers are currently engaged in final feasibility studies for use of the T-4000.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS MY INTERPRETATION OF WHAT I HEARD ON THE CONFERENCE CALL YESTERDAY. YOU CAN ACCESS THIS CALL AT THIS LINK:
http://biz.yahoo.com/cc/0/114390.html