Composite Optical Fiber Array for Real-Time Structural Damage Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-destructive flaw detection methods for structural materials in harsh environments are inefficient, as they require manual large-area detection and cannot identify damage in real-time, leading to potential equipment failure and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A composite material optical fiber array with a grid-shaped network of thin optical fibers, embedded or pasted on structural surfaces, utilizing light switches and photoelectric sensors to detect damage by analyzing light transmission and outputting coordinates of breaking points for immediate identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual non-destructive flaw detection methods are used, then equipment can be detected for damage, but the detection process is time-consuming and cannot identify damage in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber array is embedded in the composite material structure beforehand, establishing a continuous monitoring network that is ready to detect damage immediately when it occurs, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual inspection during equipment operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection methods with an automated optical fiber-based detection system that uses light transmission properties to identify damage, enabling real-time monitoring without human intervention and significantly reducing detection time
2Area of stationary object
If manual large-area detection is performed, then the entire equipment surface can be inspected, but it requires significant human effort and cannot be done continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is divided into multiple independent optical fiber segments arranged in a grid pattern, with each segment covering a specific area. This segmentation allows the system to monitor large surfaces automatically through distributed sensing points, eliminating the need for manual inspection of entire areas
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber array performs self-monitoring by detecting changes in light transmission caused by damage, eliminating the need for manual operation. The system automatically identifies damage locations and provides real-time status information without requiring human inspectors
3Productivity
If equipment operates in harsh environments, then productivity is maintained, but the risk of damage increases and damage cannot be detected in advance
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber array provides continuous real-time feedback on the structural integrity of equipment operating in harsh environments. By monitoring light transmission changes, the system detects damage immediately when it occurs, enabling timely responses to maintain safety and continue operational productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is installed and activated before equipment enters harsh service conditions, establishing continuous monitoring that can identify damage in advance before it leads to failure, thereby maintaining both productivity and reliability
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, and automatic detection of damage positions and sizes, reducing the risk of equipment failure and ensuring timely safety and maintenance decisions.
Implementation Method 1
Optical fibers can transmit light and are easily broken when encountering external forces
Implementation Method 2
If visible light irradiates on the photoelectric sensor, the photoelectric sensor outputs an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
Two photoelectric circuit sets each have a light source, two light switches, optical fibers, photoelectric sensor and computer. The light source emits visible light to the first switch, which is continuously deflected and reflected by a torsional micro-mirror. The light respectively irradiates each of the optical fibers in a composite material optical fiber prepreg layer. If the material is normal, the optical fiber is not damaged, the visible light passes through the optical fiber and irradiates the second switch, and is continuously deflected and reflected by a second torsional micro-mirror, the light irradiates the photoelectric sensor. The sensor outputs an electric signal to the computer. If the material is damaged, the optical fiber here is damaged, another corresponding optical fiber path at an intersection point is also damaged without electric signal output. The computer gives breaking position coordinates at the intersection point of two paths of optical fiber arrays.