APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE INSPECTION OF VARIABLE ANGLE MANUFACTURING COMPONENTS

Disclosed herein is a non-destructive inspection apparatus that utilizes a biased probe housing to maintain ultrasonic coupling with a part. The apparatus includes an attachment body attached to a robotic arm that has a tool center point (TCP). The apparatus also includes a probe assembly coupled to the attachment body such that movement of the TCP results in a corresponding movement of the probe assembly, and a probe housing disposed around the probe assembly and moveably coupled to the attachment body. The apparatus also includes a biasing member disposed between the attachment body and the probe housing that urges the probe housing away from the attachment body. Also disclosed is a method that includes positioning a probe housing and a probe assembly adjacent a part, ultrasonically scanning the part for defects, and biasing the probe housing relative to the attachment body to maintain engagement of the part.