Intelligent Photonic Micro-Sensor Network for Rocket Propulsion Ground Testing

NASArsquo;s requirements for improved measurement and analysis techniques for propulsion system performance characteristics for rocket propulsion systems. IFOS is developing a scalable, wirelessly networked, photonic instrumentation solution for measurement of strain and temperature, and derived acoustics, pressure, and heat flux. IFOSrsquo; chip-scale solution leverages the latest advances in photonic integrated circuits (PIC) and highly confined Brillouin sensing for ultra-fine localization of structural and environmental events of interest. IFOSrsquo; sensors will address NASArsquo;s need for instrumenting inaccessible measurement locations on rocket propulsion test structures. The concept of operations includes both wireless sensor network operation and fiber-connected networking where cybersecurity and/or EMI/RFI are a concern. In Phase I, IFOS and Stanford University will demonstrate concept feasibility of the innovative sensing network concept. In Phase II, field demonstration will occur with rocket propulsion system prime integrator. IFOS will leverage synergistic work on self-healing networks, built-in test, and distributed in-fiber Brillouin sensing. The concept can later be extended to SHM of in-flight systems, autonomous vehicle operation, or instrumenting inaccessible measurement locations.