Robot NDT said to scan structures in record time
A system that robotically inspects the skin and immediate interior structures of an aircraft–which has been likened to an MRI of the human body–is catching

A system that robotically inspects the skin and immediate interior structures of an aircraft–which has been likened to an MRI of the human body–is catching the attention of the aviation industry, including the Defense Department, at least one fractional-ownership provider and safety agencies.

The structural anomaly mapping (SAM) system will reveal corrosion and other subsurface aberrations such as debonds and composite delaminations without first having to do any preparation to the aircraft itself, according to the manufacturer. The aircraft remains in flight-ready status, with neither defueling nor contact with the aircraft coatings required.