Combining multiple nondestructive inspection images with a generalized additive model

In this paper, multiple nondestructive inspection (NDI) images are combined with a generalized additive model to achieve a more precise and reliable assessment of hidden corrosion in aircraft lap joints. Two inspection techniques are considered in this study. One is the conventional multi-frequency eddy current testing technique and the other is the pulsed eddy current technique. To characterize the thickness loss or equivalently to achieve a quantitative measure of corrosion, multiple NDI images are fused to produce a thickness map that reflected the amount of corrosion damage. These results are further compared with corresponding digital x-ray thickness maps, which are obtained by mapping the remaining thickness after the specimen is dissembled and all the corrosion products are cleaned. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithms outperform the traditional calibration method aligned with a single testing approach.