A novel non-destructive testing training system based on wireless probe tracking (TrainNDT)

无损检测（NDT）对于确保和维护从飞机到发电站的结构和系统的完整性至关重要。无损检测操作员通过在有真实或人为缺陷的样品上练习来进行培训。这些样品可能是稀有和/或昂贵的。在客户现场进行培训时，无损检测培训师必须携带样品到培训地点。样品的剪切体积和重量使提供培训成为一项主要的后勤工作，在某些情况下使其不切实际。该项目将开发一种新的系统，该系统使用真实数据提供与真实数据没有区别的无损检测体验，但不需要测试样本。该系统将无线位置传感器、陀螺仪方向、摄像头输入和负载传感集成到一个手持探头中。TrainNDT将开发一个集成传感器平台，并基于定义良好的具有一系列缺陷的样品的真实测试数据构建虚拟环境。软件将记录的无损检测数据与实时探头位置、方向和压力联系起来，输出信号给受训者，就像他们在测试真实的样品一样。好处包括：能够在世界任何地方进行培训，而不需要昂贵的测试标本运输；提供种类更广泛的虚拟测试样本；以及在短时间内通过下载一个新的数据集来改变训练计划的能力。该系统可以根据受训者的实际动作，自动检查和反馈受训者的探针运动，为培训体验增加价值。

Non-destructive testing (NDT) is essential for ensuring and maintaining the integrity of structures and systems from aircraft to power stations. NDT operators are trained by practising on specimens with real or artificial flaws. These samples can be rare and/or expensive. For training at clients’ premises, NDT trainers must carry samples to the training location. The shear bulk and weight of the samples turns the provision of training into a major logistical exercise, and in some cases makes it impractical. This project will develop a new system which uses real data to provide an NDT experience indistinguishable from the real one, but without the need for the test sample. The system integrates wireless position sensors, gyroscopic orientation, camera input and load sensing into a hand-held probe. TrainNDT will develop an integrated sensor platform and construct the virtual environment based on real test data from well-defined samples with a range of defects. Software will relate the recorded NDT data to the real-time probe position, orientation, and pressure to output a signal to the trainee as if they were testing the real sample. Benefits include: the ability to carry out training anywhere in the world without the need for costly transportation of test specimens; availability of a much wider variety of virtual test specimens; and the ability to vary the training programme at short notice simply by downloading a new dataset. The system can provide automated checks and feedback on the trainee’s probe movements based on actual movements, adding value to the training experience.