Transfer function approach based on simulation results for the determination of pod curves

POD curves estimations are based on statistical studies of empirical data which are obtained thru costly and time consuming experimental campaigns. Currently, cost reduction of POD trials is a major issue. A proposed solution is to replace some of the experimental data required to determine the POD with model based results. Following this idea, the concept of Model Assisted POD (MAPOD) has been introduced first in the US in 2004 through the constitution of the MAPOD working group. One approach to Model Assisted POD is based on a transfer function which uses empirical data and models to transfer POD measured for one specific application to another related application. The objective of this paper is to show how numerical simulations could help to determine such transfer functions. A practical implementation of the approach to a high frequency eddy current inspection for fatigue cracks is presented. Empirical data is available for the titanium alloy plates. A model based transfer function is used to assess a POD curve for the inspection of aluminum components.