Probe localization by magnetic measurements in eddy-current nondestructive testing environment

Localization of eddy current probe in Nondestructive Testing allows merging the information of defect detection with positions. Typically, this task requires the usage of additional and costly position measurement systems or software assisted handlers in controlled laboratory conditions. However, many of these tests require free hand movements of the eddy current probes. In addition, in many industrial applications low cost is a stringent requirement. This paper proposes a novel solution to comply with the proposed issues. In particular, the paper describes the usage of a magnetic 2D wireless localization method, able to track the probe position during the execution of Nondestructive Tests. To the best of our knowledge, such approach is novel and promises to accomplish the localization issue in Nondestructive Testing by means of low-cost hardware. Moreover, it is characterized by a light computational burden, since it reuses most of the equipment already needed for the test itself. Preliminary results, proving the suitability of a real time simultaneous testing and localization system, are reported in this paper.