GrayUR Undergraduate Research for Credit - Nondestructive Inspection
Acoustooptic Nondestructive Inspection
Project Overview
The Acousto-optic Nondestructive Inspection (AONDI) system functions by categorizing the scattering of acoustic waves via an interferometric scan in order to create a map of subsurface flaws and defects in the test specimen. Currently, the main objective is to develop a DC interferometric probe system and drive a wave by the ‘pitch-catch’ method for the purpose of nondestructive inspection. This research is relevant to engineers and scholars alike and has the potential to streamline safety for flight applications and alter the way that post production materials testing is performed.
Objectives
- Demonstrate Optical Interferometer
- Demonstrate ability to launch surface waves in an aluminum specimen
- Demonstrate data collection system
Major Tasks
The major tasks of the project are outlined below. These are nominal and are likely to change somewhat throughout the course of the year. These are meant to illustrate the general nature of the work that the position entails.
- Design interferometer cavity
- Refine optical pathway
- Demonstrate surface dependent fringe patterns
- Demonstrate surface wave launch using wedges
- Demonstrate surface wave capture
- Design optical collection hardware
- Assemble and validate data collection system
General Responsibilities of the Group
Students participating in the GrayUR undergraduate research group will register for an ENGE 2994 or ENGE 4994 undergraduate research course. Typically, students enroll for a 1 credit-hour course load. Under certain circumstances, we can look at extending this up to as many as 3 credits per semester and can sometimes explore technical elective credit within your major. Though not required, the expectation is that you will continue on with the team for two semesters, though we will examine the relationship at the end of the fall semester.
In addition to the major technical tasks listed above, all members of the GrayUR undergraduate research team should expect
- To devote ~3 hours/week to research for each credit hour
- To attend a biweekly team meeting with Dr. Gray
- To attend a monthly all-hands meeting with Dr. Gray
- To participate in periodic reporting (symposia, research poster sessions, etc.)
Major Deliverables
All student teams will have the following deliverables
- One progress presentation to the entire GrayUR group each semester
- Final project reporting
- Final report
- Final slides
- Final personal reflection
Open Positions
Specific Role(s)
Ultrasonic excitation and detection lead
- ultrasonic wave generation
- high-speed image acquisition
Preferred Majors
- MSE
- ESM
- CpE
- EE
- ME
- AOE
- Phys
Preferred Academic Years
Looking for Sophomore/Junior level student
Preferred Skills and Interests
- Ultrasonic/acoustic wave propagation
- Optics
- Nondestructive inspection
- Material properties
- High speed imaging
- Electronics integration
- Data collection and analysis
- Design of experiment.
How to Apply
Applications will be reviewed by Dr. Gray and by continuing researchers on the team. After a review of the application, our team will contact candidates to schedule an interview (likely to be conducted via zoom). Review for the positions will begin on Bastille Day, 2022, and will continue until all positions are filled. Please send an email to Dr. David Gray (dagray3@vt.edu) with the following deliverables;
- A brief (~1 page) essay or cover letter explaining which of the projects you are interested in, and why you think you might be a good fit for that project (or those projects). If you are applying for multiple projects, extend your essay a little and describe your interest and qualifications for each position. Be sure to let us know your major and where you are in your academic career (sophomore, junior, etc.)
- A resume outlining your work experience and education
Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
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