Multi-Tasked Microtechnology Based Sensor for Automotive Fluidic Analysis

Williams-Pyro, Inc. (WPI) proposes to develop an optical MEMS multi-task fluidic analyzer (OMFA) that provides on-board diagnostic and prognostic capabilities for engine fluids. The basic function of OMFA is to automatically analyze and report the condition of engine fluids. WPI will develop a compact engine fluidic analyzing system consisting of a (1) sensor head that Senses changes in fluid's optical properties and (2) a sensor interrogator that interrogates the sensor. The interrogator contains optical elements, supporting electronics, and embedded software to process raw data into meaningful information indicating the fluid's condition. OMFA uses a MEMS Fabry-Perot optical cavity on top of the sensor head to diagnose fluid degradation. OMFA will be integrated with sophisticated electronic circuitry and embedded signal processing software algorithms that accurately interrogate the optical MEMS based fluidic sensor. Data generated from the interrogator will be sent to vehicle's data bus using a military-compatible communication protocol, which will be available to maintenance crews via the vehicle's computer interfaces.