A system for inspecting the surface of a curved object is provided. This system includes an object having a curved surface; at least one substantially flat interdigital transducer, wherein the interdigital transducer is operative to generate surface energy waves; and at least one coupling device disposed between the curved surface and the substantially flat interdigital transducer, wherein the coupling device is operative to conform to the curved surface, support the interdigital transducer, and provide a medium through which the surface energy waves can effectively travel from the interdigital transducer to the curved surface and across the curved surface in a predetermined direction.