Embedded sensor technology: opportunities and challenges in the health monitoring of structural materials

摘要

The concept of embedding sensors into a structural material or component suggests that a new generation of engineered materials is possible, with systems capable of self-diagnosis and prognostic decision making. The notions for such systems have been largely academic and government sponsored research activities, with relatively little participation from the general industrial sector. Such minimal private sector development in the embedded sensor area suggests a fundamental problem confronting the further development and application of embedded sensor technology: economics. In effect, sensors must "buy their way on board" material systems and structures, and conclusively demonstrate value that warrants the cost of their development, installation, and maintenance. Considering the commercial and military significance of reducing total ownership costs over the life of vehicles, aircraft, and structural systems, it will be argued that innovative structural health monitoring offers an unprecedented opportunity to achieve significant cost savings. An attempt will be made to cast the need of embedded sensors from both a technological and economic standpoint, as well as identify critical barriers that persist in both of these areas.