Wireless Communications with Electromagnetic Sensor Networks for Nondestructive Evaluation

This Phase II effort will address the specific needs of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) for on-board health monitoring. Phase I and related efforts have demonstrated the unique capabilities of the MWM-Array to provide early stage scheduled and continuousmonitoring of fatigue progression. Phase I also demonstrated the feasibility of using wireless communication from embedded MWM-Arrays. In Phase II, two specific applications will be identified and requirements defined for fatigue monitoring. Then aprototype sensor network will be adapted and fabricated, including miniaturized instrumentation prototypes with support for multiplexing of multiple MWM-Array eddy current sensors. The Phase II program will include OEM support for problem definition andperformance of at least one coupon or component fatigue test to demonstrate capability of the prototype sensor network design for a specific application that is relevant to JSF. Phase II will also include development of a transition plan for near termimplementation on JSF. The Phase II development and transition plan will also address integration of capability with planned decision support for prognostics and health management (PHM) on JSF. Embedded sensor networks with wireless communication andautonomous and interactive decision support for PHM and condition based maintenance (CBM) address a critical need to reduce total ownership costs of military aircraft while maintaining or enhancing readiness. A successful Phase II program will provide theNavy and JSF program with the needed capability to monitor difficult-to-access locations for fatigue damage, including early stage damage progression without disassembly, and to increase the effectiveness of