When a component is inspected using ultrasonics, a number of variables are specified to optimize detection and characterization of flaws. It would be quite useful to have a model of the field/flaw interaction that would allow selection of the best transducer and inspection geometry for a given set of potential flaws. Moreover, if the model can give insight into the physics of the field/flaw interaction, it can be used to select features in the signals received that best characterize the flaw.