MEMS-based Interactive Strain Tracking System (MISTS) Phase II: INSU Development

In Phase I, International Electronic Machines Corporation (IEM) demonstrated the feasibility of two approaches for applying wireless self-powered sensor nodes to rotorcraft components: the MEMS-based Integrated Strain Tracking System (MISTS) approach, and the related Integrated Networked Sensor Unit (INSU). MISTS is a “bleeding-edge” design intended to produce tags no more than 5mmX5mm, while INSU is a leading-edge design incorporating both current off-the-shelf and custom designs to yield a projected final design footprint of ~½” (~13mm) square. One product of Phase I was the creation of a new, innovative solid-state ultra-low power strain sensor with performance equal to or better than any extant strain sensor. To achieve rapid practical deployment, NAVAIR directed subsequent work focus on the INSU approach. Therefore, in Phase II, IEM will develop the INSU to full field demonstration capability, including the wireless INSU node itself (sensor, power, communications, and data processing systems) and appropriate data processing hardware and software to gather, process, and analyze information from the INSU units. The final designs will meet or exceed military requirements for ruggedness, endurance, reliability, and accuracy, and be: widely applicable to many forms of transportation and industrial machinery, able to use other types of sensors, and extremely low cost.