Multisensor research for inspection
SpaceTech AI is researching how multiple sensor measurements and machine learning could support inspection. The planned bench begins with composite specimens and combines visible and thermal imaging with spectral readings and supporting sensor measurements. We want to understand which measurements provide useful evidence about material condition and where additional examination is needed.
Our longer-term application is coordinated drone inspection of launch vehicles and launch infrastructure. The work is at the research stage.
Discuss a research studyCurrent work
Earlier software work applied a machine learning model to public thermography data to explore how it identifies known defects in composite material. Questions remain about performance on new specimens and sensitivity to changes in imaging conditions.
We are developing a bench setup and planning a small physical study with repeatable measurements of composite specimens with documented defects. Comparison with an independent reference inspection would help us assess the sensor results. The appropriate reference method will depend on the material and damage being studied.
Performance on independent specimens and in field inspection has not yet been established.
Working with researchers and inspection teams
We welcome conversations with researchers and laboratories about composite materials, nondestructive evaluation and practical study design. Our proposed contribution centers on sensor measurements and software analysis. We are seeking input on specimen selection and reference measurements to shape a useful experiment and agree on what each participant would provide.
We also want to hear from inspection teams about the assets they inspect, their current methods and the questions that remain difficult to answer. Those conversations will help us choose problems that matter in practice.
Longer-term direction
The drone-swarm inspection concept has been explored through simulation and is the subject of a pending U.S. patent application by founder Daniel Singleton. Moving toward flight inspection will require hardware development and laboratory and field testing.
Discuss an inspection problem or research study
Contact Daniel Singleton, founder, at daniel@spacetechai.com.
For inspection teams, a brief description of your material or asset, current inspection method and question is a useful place to start.
For researchers and laboratories, the specimens or reference methods you work with are a useful starting point. We can share the current study outline and technical background for a follow-up discussion.