Generation Laser Scanning Method for the Visualization of Ultrasounds Propagating on a 3-D Object with an Arbitrary Shape

Abstract

We propose a generation laser scanning method for imaging of the propagation of ultrasounds. By scanning a pulsed-laser beam on an object for the generation of ultrasounds, the propagated ultrasounds were detected by a fixed PZT transducer. Although the detected waves were ultrasounds generated from different irradiation points, we could, by means of simple data processing, produce the dynamic images of the ultrasounds generated from the reception transducer position. Since this method requires no adjustment of the beam incident angle or beam focus, we can easily visualize the ultrasound propagating on a solid media having a complicated shape. The distinguishing feature of this method is its applicability in the field of inspection work.