Research
Imaging
Imaging research combines natural sciences and engineering to develop cutting edge technologies that can enhance our perception and understanding of the outside world. The research within our group aims at advancing wave-based imaging methods building on recent progress in solid state electronics, micromachining, and computer power. Our work addresses the theoretical and experimental aspects of imaging and takes advantage of our experience in translating fundamental science into exploitable technologies.
Materials Characterisation
Non destructive materials characterisation is an important discipline materials in many fields of engineering. Applications range from the optimisation of production processes via product quality assurance to the assessment of the state of structural materials (cure, degradation). Within the group an extensive range of measurement skills exists and also novel measurement techniques have been developed to characterise the mechanical and electromagnetic properties of materials. The group’s material characterisation research is strongly focused on delivering robust, rapid and practical solutions to real life applications.
Research
Inspection
The group works on a variety of non-destructive testing and structural inspection. Particular strengths are in ultrasound and guided ultrasonic waves and we are also investigating a number of emerging techniques that have the potential to fill gaps in existing technology.
Monitoring
In contrast to inspection, where a structure is assessed at a particular point in time and often the response at different spatial locations is compared to assess if defects are present, in monitoring we are more concerned with the evolution of signals over time. Sensors are installed at a fixed position, and frequent measurements can reveal and track small changes in the sensor output. It becomes then very important to acquire signals repeatedly and reliably with cost effective technology. Furthermore, it is very important that one is able to tell apart changes in the signal that are due to the features that one wants to measure from those that might be induced by other benign factors such as variations in the environmental conditions