Networked Data Acquisition System for Wireless/Wired Sensors

Modern naval vessels use vast arrays of sensors throughout the ship to monitor systems. The amount of data collected by these sensors is enormous, requiring a large number of personnel / equipment resources. In addition, this management takes time and coordination between the numerous individuals involved. This can be an inefficient system when the amount of time available is shrinking every day due to improved technology. Achieving minimal manning without sacrificing functionality is a very significant factor in driving down Navy system life-cycle costs. One method of reducing workload/manning and Total Ownership Cost (TOC) is implementing a network capable sensor data gathering system for condition-based monitoring applications. Luna Innovations proposes to design a Network Capable Application Processor based system that communicates either wired or wirelessly over a local area network (LAN), for collecting data from many wired and wireless shipboard sensors. The design will be based upon the extensive experience that Luna provides in the areas of sensor and wireless networking technology, and will utilize IEEE 802.11b wireless modules and the IEEE 1451 open systems architecture standards for sensors. Navy applications that will benefit from this system include normal watch standing, machinery monitoring, compartment monitoring, maintenance, and damage control. Researchers at Luna Innovations envision a significant market potential for wireless / wired networked systems for sensor data gathering systems in ruggedized and industrial environments. Utilizing system components that are compliant with the 802.11b and IEEE 1451 standards provides an effective solution to the marketplace. These are useful on military ships, vehicles, and aircraft where demand for greater resource utilization is increasing, and where life cycle support costs should be minimized. The commercial sector will benefit from the same improvements.