Albido Corporation — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: 24

Description

High intensity, multi-megawatt proton accelerator facilities offer the opportunity to explore science in multiple experiments and programs simultaneously. The reliable operation of the associated target facilities is as critical to the success of the experimental program as the high intensity proton accelerator itself. Measuring strain/vibration and temperature is essential for monitoring the structural health of a target component in a high radiation environment. Statement of how this Problem or Situation is Being Addressed Albido Corp. proposes a Passive Sensor System for Radiation Resistant Strain and Vibration Instrumentation capable of measuring high-bandwidth strain and vibration for monitoring the structural health of a target component in a high radiation environment. The proposed system uses a true passive Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) strain sensor that can be interrogated using wires or wirelessly. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits The proposed technology allows sensors to monitor strain, vibration, and temperature of target components in a high radiation environment at research facilities and nuclear plants. The sensor is very light, which makes it suitable even for installing on fast moving/rotating objects that exhibit very large acceleration. For space applications, SAW devices provide unique and wide ranging capabilities that include radiation hard, wireless, passive, low loss, multi-sensor, secure, small, and rugged. The sensors can be placed on critical aerospace and other components without disturbing the aerodynamic flow. Military and commercial applications could also benefit from the proposed sensors. Key Words: Strain, Vibration, Sensor, Surface Acoustic Wave, SAW, Radiation Hard, Passive, Wireless, Temperature, Radiation Resistant, Radiation Target, Instrumentation