ALPHASTAR TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N162-100

Description

We propose SHM technology integrated with multi-scale, multi-physics analysis to demonstrate the technical feasibility of, an integrated hybrid SHM system that utilizes networks of fiber optic (FO) sensors and piezoelectric (PZT) actuators to monitor loads and detect damage state on both non-rotating and rotating structural components for the V-22 platform. In Phase I, a prototype of the hybrid SHM system will be demonstrated to monitor actual environment loading history and track damage states (and evolution of such damage) on a metallic and composite coupon. The hardware/software for data acquisition of the hybrid SHM system is proposed to be small/lightweight, packaged as a single unit and eventually integrated with the current V-22 Vibration/Structural Life and Engine Diagnostics (VSLED) system. An ultrasonic based wireless SHM system is proposed by ASC team to detect damages in structural components which can be easily integrated to current V-22s VSLED system. The proposed approach adds "local" damage discovery at the point and time of its inception by measuring changes in the character of ultrasonic waves; augments the "global" damage discovered from VSLED's vibration monitoring; is compatible with other software systems. Our plan for Phase II and commercialization of this approach will be further addressed.