High Strength Fiber Optic Sensor Grating Arrays

The U.S. Navy has long recognized that ship survivability depends critically on the smooth, uninterrupted operation of all electrical and electronic subsystems. These include weapon systems, communication and navigational systems, radar, propulsionsystems, electric-hydraulic systems, and virtually every electronic and computer based piece of equipment onboard. However, with over 4,346 conventional circuit breakers onboard a typical DDG, these represent multiple Achilles' heels in the presence ofshock and vibration. A typical Naval shipboard circuit breaker contains both thermal and magnetic trip mechanisms which are known to false trigger in the presence of even relatively minor shock impacts. Spectrum Research Corporation proposes to develop anew generation of high reliability Naval circuit breakers based on smart materials. Through the integration of magnetostrictive actuators, rheological dampers, and embedded intelligence, it is possible to develop a circuit breaker that is immune to allbut physically destructive shock impacts. A secondary objective is to provide for field reconfigurability such that authorized personnel may customize overload trip points upon installation. In addition to comprehensive solid modeling and simulationstudies, the Phase I deliverables shall include a fully functional benchtop prototype.The anticipated benefit of the Phase I effort is the demonstration of an activelycontrolled circuit breaker that offers superior immunity to shock and vibration. Inaddition, the benefit of field reconfigurability will allow a single smart circuitbreaker to replace a whole product line of conventional circuit breakers. These devices will be especially suitable for use in seismic applications andtransportationvehicles.