Effects of Broadband Laser Generated Ultrasound on Array Gain

Abstract

Array gain is a common parameter used in laser phased array research. This paper will present a new parameter called the frequency modulation of laser phased array (FMLPA). The array gain model for laser phased arrays was derived using an assumption that ultrasound from each array member interferes with each other. This would be always true if laser generated ultrasound is narrow band. However, laser generation of ultrasound is broad band. Broad band ultrasound signals have short duration in the time domain. If the time delay between generated wave fronts from each array member is longer than the duration of the broad band ultrasound signal from each array member, the ultrasound signals from each array member will not interfere with each other. The time delay between generated wave fronts from each array member is 0 s at a laser phased array’s beam steering angle and increases away from the beam steering angle. Therefore, ultrasound from each array member always interfere at angles close to the beam steering angle. However, ultrasound from each array member may not interfere at angles away from the beam steering angle depending on the time delay between generated wave fronts and duration of the broad band ultrasound signal. A theoretical model of the FMLPA was developed and experimentally verified for use when ultrasound from each array member does not interfere with each other. It was experimentally verified that current array gain equations still apply when ultrasound from array members interfere with each other. The FMLPA can be used to create new techniques for measuring weld penetration depth, crack location, and dimensions of objects.