Large-Asset, Intelligent, Composite-Matrix, Multifunctional Sensor Networks

The ability to efficiently utilize the large surface area of entities such as buildings, tanks, and ships as active, intelligent skins will allow these assets to become part of a larger, highly-responsive, complex nervous system in mission critical scenarios. This will enable information that would otherwise not be available for real-time monitoring and response. Large-area assets would also allow efficient harvesting of lost energy and a feedback to the original system, leading to significant energy and cost savings. One of the key limitations to this advance has been the lack of large-area manufacturing and integration capability that would best utilize the enormous potential of such systems. In this proposal, we will develop a large-area, intelligent, composite-matrix sensor network using a combination of reinforced woven fabric, and microelectronic processing technologies. In the Phase I program, we will develop a design of the composite-matrix sensor structure and validate the process and equipment to enable scaling to large areas. In the follow on Phase II program, we will demonstrate a large-area sensor network in collaboration with an end-user, and demonstrate a functional product. We will commercialize the final product and offer it to the military and commercial markets in Phase III.