A Physics-Based Software Framework for Detection, Location, Isolation and Masking of Faults in Composite Sensor-Computer Networks

"This SBIR Phase II Proposal seeks to develop the physics-basedfault tolerant technology for sensor networks shown to befeasible in the SBIR Phase I study in response to topic N01-080, "Fault Location in an Intelligent Open Sensor Network." Theproposed approach considers that for Conditional-BasedMaintenance purposes an entire ship can be classified as ahierarchy of subsystems, which conceptually leads to a hierarchyof sensor networks that govern/monitor an entire ship. This SBIRPhase II effort includes (1) fault-tolerant implementation of theIEEE 1451.2 Standard, (2) implementation of sensor networkingtechnology using COTS-based technology, (3) implementation of thephysics-based fault tolerance approach for a network of smartsensors, and (4) implementation of a hierarchical approachcorresponding to the hierarchical abstraction of a physicalsystem of interest (i.e., an entire ship). In addition,technology for interfacing the proposed software products withproducts that are already in use in naval vessels will bedeveloped as part of this effort. Demonstration of the fault-tolerant technology to be developed with suitable sensornetworks, and further refinement of the technology based onfeedback will occur in stages during the Phase II effort and willcontinue, with full demonstrations, through the Phase II Option.BENEFITS: Continuous modernization of Naval ships as well as decreasing reliance on on-board military personnel calls for the