Non-Contact Torque Sensor for Unmodified Composite Shafts and Non-Ferrous Metal Shafts

The goal of the proposed research is to optimize operating parameters for high-speed, high-resolution non-contact multi-spectral optical surface tracking. The immediate application is to extract drive shaft torque from a jet engines main shaft in real time. The technique, however, is applicable to power-transmission shafts and surface deformation tracking in challenging environments. Our non-contact tracking method will combine the flexibility and environmental robustness of optical tracking with robustness of multi-spectral testing against impairment by electromagnetic fields, high-pressure gas flow, vibration and changing surface contamination. The Phase I program will demonstrate the accuracy and speed of this novel approach; the Phase II program will logically extend Phase I research to implement a prototype that can demonstrate performance in a full-scale, full-rate jet-engine test environment. To successfully develop this challenging but highly rewarding technology, we have assembled a cross-disciplinary team of experts in optics, dynamic systems, high-speed algorithms and data processing.