ULTRA-HIGH DENSITY FIBEROPTIC STRAIN SENSOR ARRAYS FOR STRUCTURAL EVALUATION AND MONITORING (PR01-470)

We propose to research and develop high-density optical fiber sensor systems, including low cost, flight-worthy instrumentation, for in-situ continuous monitoring and non-destructive inspection of aging aircraft. Using unique but established fiber sensorapproaches, we will develop sensor systems capable of 1-2 orders of magnitude greater density than conventional sensor arrays, with a cost potential an order of magnitude lower. This system will provide critical data not only for maintenance and safetypurposes but for evaluation of aircraft health in flight. This program will be a natural complement to our ongoing fiberoptic sensor efforts with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, to develop new fiberoptic sensor technologies for integrated vehiclehealth management (IVHM) systems, and combine those with our unique fiberoptic avionics network for vehicle-wide diagnostics and information management. The applications for continuous monitoring and improved control are numerous, in both the civilian andmilitary sectors. Fiberoptic sensors offer decided reliability, performance, and operational cost advantages over conventional types such as resistive strain gauges.