Linear Array of Magnetostrictive Accelerometers (LAMA) for Distributed Acceleration Sensing on Aircraft Structures

X-wave Innovations, Inc. (XII) proposes a distributed acceleration sensor based on a linear array of magnetostrictive accelerometers (LAMA). A sensing element in LAMA consists of thin magnetostrictive (MS) ribbon fixed at both ends, two permanent magnets, a pickup coil and Hall sensors. The magnets fixed at the center of the ribbon serves dual purpose; magnetizing the MS ribbon and also functioning like a proof mass. Changes in the force experienced by the proof mass cause a strain in the ribbon, altering the relative permeability of the MS ribbon and the flux flowing through it. This change in flux induces a voltage in the pickup coils wrapped around the ribbon. No voltage is measured across the coil when the force is constant. Additional Hall sensors will be used to track the position of the magnets, enabling the measurement of static force. Each sensor element will include a signal amplifier and ADC ICs, and multiple sensors will be connected to form an array (LAMA) in a daisy-chain configuration for distributed sensing. In Phase I, XII will design and develop a prototype LAMA sensing element. Design phase will be aided by analytical and simulation methods. The prototype will be used to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed technology. In Phase II, XII will refine the sensing element, develop an array of sensing elements (LAMA) and the related electronics, and demonstrate the technology to DON.