In Situ Composite Moisture Detection via Embedded Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current moisture detection techniques for complex structures, such as aircraft, are unable to detect moisture ingression and saturation in real-time without destroying the structure or rendering it inoperable, leading to conservative material selections that increase weight and reduce efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for in situ moisture detection using embedded or external sensors that transmit and receive electric fields or energy beams to determine moisture saturation, concentration, and ingression points in composite materials, allowing for real-time monitoring during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ex situ moisture detection techniques are used, then moisture characteristics can be detected, but the complex structure must be destroyed or rendered inoperable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds moisture detection sensors within the composite material during the manufacturing process, before the structure enters service. This preliminary action allows the sensors to be positioned optimally within the material matrix to detect moisture ingress at early stages, while the structure remains intact and operational throughout its service life
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic radiation as an intermediary medium to detect moisture characteristics. The sensors transmit electromagnetic signals through the composite material and analyze the reflected or transmitted signals to determine moisture content, allowing non-contact, non-destructive measurement that preserves structure integrity
2Reliability
If conservative material allowances are used to compensate for moisture ingression, then structural reliability is improved, but the overall weight of the complex structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time moisture monitoring systems that continuously track moisture ingress and saturation levels within the composite structure. This feedback mechanism allows operators to monitor actual moisture conditions and make informed decisions about maintenance and material selection, replacing conservative static allowances with dynamic, data-driven assessments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static, conservative material design assumptions to dynamic, real-time moisture parameter monitoring. By continuously measuring actual moisture content and saturation levels, the system enables optimization of material selection and structural design based on actual operating conditions rather than worst-case conservative estimates
3Measurement precision
If ex situ moisture detection is performed, then moisture characteristics can be measured, but real-time monitoring during operation is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds moisture detection sensors within the composite material during the manufacturing process, before the structure enters service. This preliminary action allows the sensors to be positioned optimally within the material matrix to detect moisture ingress at early stages, while the structure remains intact and operational throughout its service life
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous real-time moisture monitoring systems that operate throughout the entire service life of the composite structure. The embedded sensors continuously transmit electromagnetic signals and process reflections to provide ongoing moisture characteristic data, enabling continuous detection without interruption of structure operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time, non-destructive moisture monitoring within complex structures, reducing the need for conservative material allowances and improving operational efficiency by providing accurate, in situ data on moisture levels.
Implementation Method 1
The moisture detection sensor can include a transmitting portion that transmits an electric field through the material
Implementation Method 2
a receiving portion that receives the electric field
Implementation Method 3
The moisture detection sensor can include a transmitting portion that transmits a beam of energy, and a receiving portion that receives at least a portion of the beam of energy
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting moisture characteristics of a material of a complex structure while the material is in situ or forms part of the complex structure. The system includes at least one moisture detection sensor positioned proximate the material of the complex structure while the material is in situ. The system also includes a controller in data receiving communication with the moisture detection sensor.