Donna C Hurley

Title: Inventor Profile: Donna C. Hurley

Introduction

Donna C. Hurley is an accomplished inventor based in Albany, NY, with a remarkable portfolio that includes six patents. Her innovations primarily focus on advanced inspection technologies that enhance safety and efficiency in the aerospace sector. Working for General Electric Company, she has made significant contributions to the field of aerospace engineering.

Latest Patents

Among her latest inventions is the "Eddy Current Surface Inspection Probe for Aircraft Fastener Inspection." This innovative probe enables the detection of cracks and flaws in aircraft skin metal surrounding rivets without requiring rivet removal or manual scanning. The design features a circular array of small sense coils paired with a larger drive coil encased in ferrite. This configuration allows for the generation of a resultant output signal that indicates the presence of defects when a non-zero signal is detected from the sense coils.

Additionally, Donna has developed an "Optical Transducer and Method of Use." This optical transducer operates within ultrasound systems, utilizing a signal laser that generates an optical signal in response to incident acoustic energy. The innovation captures varying frequencies of the optical signal based on the acoustic energy, allowing for precise detection of acoustic pulses. This method improves the reliability and accuracy of ultrasonic testing techniques in various applications.

Career Highlights

Donna's tenure at General Electric Company has been marked by her commitment to advancing inspection technology. Her inventions have contributed to the safety and reliability of aircraft, proving essential in the aerospace industry. With six patents to her name, her work exemplifies innovation and technical expertise.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Donna has collaborated with notable colleagues, including John D. Young and Kristina H. Hedengren. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that encourages the development of groundbreaking technologies aimed at addressing complex industry challenges.

Conclusion

Donna C. Hurley stands out as a pioneering inventor in the field of aerospace inspection technologies. With her innovative approaches and collaborative spirit, she continues to significantly impact the industry, enhancing safety standards for aircraft through her patented inventions. Her work at General Electric Company serves as an inspiration, showcasing the importance of innovation in technology.