Army Missile and Aviation Structural Health Monitoring Applications for Advanced Active Thin Film Materials

摘要

High strength, low weight carbon fiber structures are being used frequently for Army missile and aviation applications, but they are susceptible to low energy impact damage. On the other hand, unnecessary removal from service for inspection and maintenance reduces readiness. Structural health monitoring systems that include an array of sensors and/or actuators are needed to reduce risk and increase readiness. Typically sensors and actuators are piezo-based and too large to be embedded in the structure or if embedded can affect strength. Thin film sensors and actuators are significantly thinner; therefore reducing the potential for affecting the strength of the composite structure. Development of these sensors will be critical to future Army readiness.