Robotic Non-Destructive Testing of Manmade Structures: A Review of the Literature

Abstract: This literature review investigates how robots can be used for the maintenance of manmade structures, such as pipes, reinforced concrete decks, and space stations as a sampling of the broad spectrum of robotic non-destructive testing (NDT) applications. Robotic NDT can be used to find plaque in pipes, corrosion in steel buildings, and impact damage in space stations, which would normally be invisible to the eye. After inspection, the inspected material is preserved in its original condition. The paper's structure is as follows: first, the definition of NDT is elaborated upon with the discussion of specific methods that will be used in the inspection of the structures mentioned above. Second, an explanation follows on why robots are suited to inspection, specifically focusing on robots' advantages over humans. Third, three real-world examples notify the reader of current progress in robot NDT. Lastly, a summary of robot problems serves as a reminder that testing and development must continue for robot NDT to become mainstream.