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About

Gunther Steenackers is a researcher whose work bridges advanced non-destructive testing, robotics, and mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on thermographic inspection systems and intelligent automation. His most significant contributions lie in the development of optimized active thermography methodologies for industrial and aerospace applications, where he has pioneered the use of numerical simulations to automatically determine optimal experimental parameters for defect detection in complex structures such as aircraft components. His 2019 work on dynamic line scanning thermography stands as his most cited contribution, reflecting growing industry demand for reliable in-line inspection solutions. Steenackers has also been instrumental in pushing thermographic measurement into three-dimensional space, developing a 4D active and passive thermography system combining robotic platforms with time-of-flight imaging — a notable advancement beyond conventional 2D thermal techniques. His work on automating inspection pathways using KUKA robotic systems further demonstrates his commitment to integrating robotics with non-destructive evaluation. Earlier in his career, he explored the mechanical behavior of pleated pneumatic artificial muscles, contributing foundational knowledge relevant to robotics and fatigue testing applications. Across his portfolio, Steenackers consistently works at the intersection of simulation, automation, and precision measurement, making him a valuable figure in industrial inspection research.