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a 140 b
FD =15

120

100
FD =15
Time delay [ns]

80 FD =30
FD =30
60

40 FD =60 FD =60

20

0
0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32
Element number

Figure 1-11 Delay values (left) and depth scanning principles (right) for a 32-element linear
array probe focusing at 15-mm, 30-mm, and 60-mm longitudinal waves. Direct contact, no
angled wedge.

1.4 Delay Laws, or Focal Laws

The focal law delay for probes without wedge—in direct contact with the test
piece—, which were programmed to generate longitudinal waves, has a
parabolic shape for depth focusing. The delay increases from the edges of the
probe towards the center. The delay will be divisible in half when the focal
distance is doubled (see Figure 1-11). The element timing has a linear increase
when the element pitch is increasing (see Figure 1-13).

Phased array probes installed on the wedge provide delay laws with different
shapes, based on Fermat's principle of minimum arrival time along a specific path
(see Figure 1-12). Other types of phased array probes (matrix or conical, for
example) may require advanced simulation for delay law values and for beam
feature evaluation.

If the beam deflection is sectorial (azimuthal), and the probe has no wedge, the
delay on identical elements will depend on the element position in the active
aperture and on the generated angle (see Figure 1-14). The delay value increases
with refracted angle and with element number.

Rev 0 Oct 2011 Page 10 of 186

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