Combined Direct Digital Synthesis, Predistortion and Efficiency Enhancement RI Power Amplifier

IDI proposes to investigate passive diagnostic approaches for the detection of wire chafing on the aircraft well before exposure of the bare conductor. Conventional methods involve assessing the reduction in dielectric breakdown of the worn insulation,time domain reflectometry, or other methods that require disconnecting the cable either for access or for circuit protection. The proposed approach uses passive sensors to monitor the chafing action without removing or disconnecting the wires underreviewuation. Noise generated by the chafing can be statistically related to structural vibrations, and the chafing source can be located through signal correlation techniques.Phase I will investigate candidate passive diagnostic approaches. Lab testing on wires in a simulated chafing environment will be performed to validate the approach. Based on the test results, a down select of the preferred measurement approach will bemade. Phase II will develop a functional prototype and in-situ demonstration. During the commercialization phase, IDI will work with established HUMS manufacturers to integrate the wire chafing technology into an aircraft health monitoring system.Incorporation of the in-situ wire chafing diagnostic technology into an aircraft health monitoring system will increase the safety and readiness of both military and commercial aircraft fleets. Signification life cycle cost savings could be realized with areduction of aircraft accidents as well as reduced downtime for inspection, maintenance, and repairs. Such a system could be commercialized to detect wire chafing in space, sea, and land vehicles as well.