Structural Health and Usage monitoring system for Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) structures

Acellent Technologies, Inc. proposes to develop a complete Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system for application to unmanned air vehicle (UAV) platform. In partnership with The Boeing Company, the development will focus primarily on the monitoring of UAV used by the U.S. Air Force such as Sensor Craft and UCAV. The proposed development will provide the means to significantly reduce maintenance/inspection costs, and enhance the reliability/efficiency/readiness of structures used in these vehicles. Phase I was focused on proving feasibility of impact damage detection on representative structures of UAV and projecting a strong business case for SHM use on these structures. A detailed plan for testing and integration of the SHM system on full-scale primary structures of these UAV is being pursued in Phase II. The Boeing Company strongly supports the proposed development and will assist in providing requirements and in the integration of the developed SHM system into the UAV .