• CN: 11-2187/TH
  • ISSN: 0577-6686

Journal of Mechanical Engineering ›› 2026, Vol. 62 ›› Issue (14): 32-48.doi: 10.3901/JME.260510

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The Current Research Status and Development Trends of Flexible Eddy Current Sensors

LI Xin1, TIAN Guiyun2,3, HU Wenguang4, LU Xiaolong5, LIANG Guangbo5, LIN Zesen6, LI Qiufeng7, CHEN Jie1   

  1. 1. Institute of special equipment inspection and research, Jiangxi General Institute of Testing and Certification, Nanchang, 330200;
    2. School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqin 400054;
    3. School of Engineering, Newcastle University, NE1 7RU, UK;
    4. Shenyang Instrument Science Research Institute Co., Ltd Shengyang 110000;
    5. School of Mechanical Engineering, Sichuan University Chengdu 610065;
    6. Eddysun(Xiamen) Electronic Co., Ltd, Xiamen 361013;
    7. Key Laboratory of Nondestructive Testing (Ministry of Education), Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063
  • Received:2024-11-10 Revised:2025-10-09 Published:2026-08-29

Abstract: Flexible eddy current sensors exhibit significant advantages in detecting surface defects in complex surface structures and narrow spaces due to their ability to conform closely to the surface of components. However, reducing false detection rates, enhancing sensitivity, and optimizing sensor performance remain challenges in the field of flexible eddy current sensor detection. An overview of the current research status and development trends of flexible eddy current sensors is first provided, emphasizing their manufacturing processes, material selection, and multilayer structural designs. This is followed by an exploration of their signal conditioning methods and applications in complex surface structure detection, culminating in a discussion on the technological features of commercial versions. Finally, this study discusses the challenges faced by flexible coils in eddy current sensor applications, including large coil size, poor performance in high-frequency ranges, poor mechanical properties of the coils, and poor adaptability in harsh environments. It also explores new processes, materials, and methods to address these challenges.

Key words: flexible coil, eddy current sensor, complex shape workpiece, conditioning circuit

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