Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Material Inspection and Monitoring

This inventive concept leverages near-infrared spectroscopy to inspect and monitor the condition of various materials, including composite materials, aircraft wings, wood products, civil infrastructure, and glass materials, enabling early detection of defects, degradation, or stress.

The original patent disclosed a device for determining the degree of elongation of hair using a near-infrared (NIR) sensor. However, the technology has broader applications beyond hair care. The new inventive concept addresses the need for non-invasive, accurate, and efficient methods for inspecting and monitoring the condition of various materials, which is critical in industries such as aerospace, construction, and manufacturing.

The inventive concept involves the use of near-infrared spectroscopy to detect absorption spectra of various materials. The detected spectra are then evaluated using an evaluation unit to determine the degree of deformation, stress, fatigue, or damage of the material. The system can be configured to monitor the material's condition over time, enabling early detection of defects or degradation. The inventive concept comprises a detection unit, an evaluation unit, and optionally, a calibration model. The detection unit can be a NIR sensor, such as a spectrometer, which generates a signal pattern based on the detected light that is characteristic of the detected material features.

The new inventive concept introduces a novel application of near-infrared spectroscopy beyond hair care, leveraging the core technology to address critical needs in various industries. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the original technology to new material inspection and monitoring applications, which is non-obvious and not anticipated by the original patent.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of sensors, such as hyperspectral imaging or Fourier transform spectroscopy. Variations of the system could be designed for specific industries or materials, such as a handheld device for inspecting aircraft wings or a stationary system for monitoring civil infrastructure.

The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including aerospace, construction, manufacturing, and materials science. The market for material inspection and monitoring is substantial, with an increasing need for non-invasive, accurate, and efficient methods. The inventive concept could be integrated into existing quality control processes or used as a standalone solution, providing a competitive advantage to companies that adopt this technology.