Robust Optical Interrogators for Electric Propulsion Applications

Luna Innovations has partnered with magniX, a leading manufacturer of electric propulsion units (EPUs) for electric-powered aircraft, to develop and test an EMI hardened version of its proven Hyperionreg; fiber optic sensing platform to support critical testing needs for ground and flight based Electrified Aircraft Propulsion (EAP) applications. The Hyperion is a versatile instrument, compatible with a variety of fiber optic sensor types, including temperature, strain, pressure, and acceleration sensors based on Fiber Bragg Grating and Fabry-Perot technologies. The Hyperion can simultaneously monitor as many as 1,024 sensors at data rates up to 5kHz.nbsp;nbsp; nbsp;During Phase I Luna tested the Hyperion at magniX on a 650kW electric aircraft motor driving a propeller and characterized the EMI environment during the test. In addition, the Hyperion was exposed to high levels of EMI through formal testing at an EMC laboratory. The Hyperion performed within specifications during all of the test campaigns proving initial viability for EAP applications. A detailed plan for creating a robust EMI and flight hardened unit was developed incorporating standard DO-160G requirements.nbsp;The proposed Phase II will result in the development of a ruggedized, flight capable Hyperion interrogator that can withstand the high EMI and demanding physical operational environment of emerging electric aircraft applications. This system, coupled with distributed fiber optic strain and temperature sensors, will establish the commercial viability of the platform. During the Phase II effort, Luna will work with its partners to build a prototype system, test it at extremes of temperature, vibration and EMI exposure, and demonstrate its successful operation in relevant EAP test scenarios. magniX will provide facilities, equipment and test opportunities to enable the evaluation of the system, culminating in a final technical demonstration of the rugged Hyperion in an operational environment.nbsp; nbsp;