Low-cost Multi-sensors as Embedded Gauges for In-situ Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) of Rocket Motor Serviceability

Currently, the service life of various solid rocket motor systems are assessed and/or extended by conducting a surveillance/type-life program, which is costly and time-consuming. By utilizing sensors built into or around the motor, the serviceability or “fitness for duty” of an individual motor would be determined based on a detailed “risk assessment” of embedded sensor data. The end objective of the proposed Phase II work is the demonstration of a prototype environmental monitoring module/data logger ideal for flexible use in measuring/monitoring relevant environmental conditions on the rocket motors, as well as in other environmental monitoring applications. The technical approach is to combine advantageous sensor technologies, aggressive electronics packaging, and facilitating RF components to create a very small, low power, long lifetime, low cost component without compromising utility. This work will include: detailed design specification, identification of logistical requirements for sensor integration in relevant application systems, several generations of prototyping, laboratory testing of integrated and non-integrated components, and software/firmware development. This work is to be done through the combined efforts of Sporian Microsystems, and Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Sensors-Eagan, MN(LM-MS2).