Distributed Optical Sensing System

To meet the NASA need for fast response, low volume, and minimal intrusion sensing system to enhance the monitoring of test aircraft safety and atmospheric conditions during flight testing, RC Integrated Systems LLC (RISL) proposes to develop a novel Distributed Optical Sensing System (DOSS), capable of providing in situ high resolution measurement of temperature, surface pressure, and strain of aerospace vehicle outer structure during flight test. These data will be used to provide information necessary to safely expand the flight and test envelopes of aerospace vehicles and components. The DOSS is based on use of novel materials for high-temperature operation and uniquely designed fiber optic sensors, capable of simultaneously measuring multiple aerothermal, aerodynamic, and structural response parameters of aerospace vehicles. DOSS sensors can withstand temperatures up to1500 degrees C and achieve measurement resolution of 0.1 degree C for temperature over 1500 degrees C range, one microstrain for strain over 10000 microstrains range, and less than 1 psi for pressure over 3000 psi range. In Phase I RISL will demonstrate the feasibility of DOSS by fabricating and testing a technology readiness level (TRL)-4 prototype, with the goal of achieving TRL-6 by the end of Phase II.