Self-Powered, High-Temperature, Wireless Sensors for Rotorcraft Applications

Turbine engine efficiency and reliability can be greatly improved if the combustion process is monitored to provide input to health monitoring algorithms. Prime Research LC (PRLC) and Virginia Tech (VT) propose to develop a high temperature wireless sensing architecture for real-time diagnostics of rotorcraft turboshaft engines. Multi-source energy scavenging and efficient power management capable of operating at 250C will enable reliable wireless transmission of sensor data in a package with minimum weight and complexity. The proposed concept capitalizes on PRLC’s extensive experience with high temperature harsh environment sensing and packaging, and VT’s strong capabilities in smart materials and low power wireless communications. Dr. Dan Inman, director of VT’s Center for Intelligent Material Systems and Structures (CIMSS) will provide expertise in the areas of piezoelectric and smart materials for energy harvesting. Dr. Dong Ha, director of VT’s VLSI for Telecommunications (VTVT) will provide expertise with low power wireless communications and multisource power management. Industry partner Pratt & Whitney will guide the effort towards product viability by providing realistic performance specifications and live engine testing. The proposed system will enable emerging engine diagnostic algorithms by providing valuable sensor data with minimum additional weight.