Multifunctional Structures
Aerospace system designers are constantly trading-off performance (maneuverability, observability, survivability) and efficiency (range, availability). Multifunctional “smart structures” have the potential to improve both sets of capabilities by performing multiple engineering functions using a single component or structure. One example is an active aeroelastic wing (AAW), which incorporates structure, controls, smart materials, and sensors capable of commanding shape changes based on real-time flight data. By incorporating distributed sensing networks, flight control algorithms can use real-time structural and aerodynamic data streams to increase speed, reduce observability, extend range, or increase maneuverability, based on mission objectives or immediate needs.
MesoScribe has made significant progress in developing sensors for structural, environmental, and aerodynamic state sensing used in evaluating system performance, economy, readiness, and residual life. Measurement systems of interest for aerostructures include:
- Damage Detection Systems
- Dynamic Strain (Structural) Sensing
- Stagnation and Separation (Aerodynamic) Sensing
- Embedded Sensing Systems
Damage Detection Systems employing Direct Write conductive traces have been developed for a wide variety of applications, are available from MesoScribe as a commercial product, and are among the first Direct write products to be flight proven. One application of MesoScribe’s damage sensors is smart ballistic armor, integrating crack detection with in-the-field interrogation for rapid assessment of the armor’s condition. Other state sensors are also under development, including strain sensors for gas turbine components and composite aerostructures, and leading edge sensors for active aeroelastic control.
