Edge Sensor Network Interrogation for Selective Structural Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring the structural integrity of devices, such as aircraft frames, are costly and time-consuming due to the need for multiple sensors and extensive data collection processes.
Innovation Solution
A detection system comprising a base device that provides electrical energy and transmits a sensor interrogation signal to edge nodes within a sensor network, allowing for selective data acquisition from various sensors, including corrosion, humidity, and strain sensors, with edge nodes relaying energy and signals to synchronize and report data back to the base device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sensors are deployed to monitor structural integrity comprehensively, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor network is segmented into multiple edge nodes, each responsible for specific sensing functions. Each edge node independently processes and relays data, dividing the complex monitoring task into manageable segments that can be distributed across the structure being monitored.
Solution Approach 2:
Edge nodes are designed with multi-functionality, serving as both sensing elements and data relay stations. Each edge node can perform multiple sensing functions (corrosion, humidity, strain) and simultaneously act as a communication node in the network, reducing the need for separate dedicated components.
2Measurement precision
If extensive data collection from all sensors is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and transmits only the most critical sensor data and anomaly detections to the central system, rather than continuously transmitting all sensor readings. This selective data extraction reduces transmission time and processing overhead while maintaining measurement precision for important parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
Data collection and transmission occur in periodic cycles rather than continuously. Edge nodes collect sensor data locally and transmit aggregated results at scheduled intervals, reducing overall data transmission time while ensuring comprehensive monitoring coverage.
3Ease of operation
If a centralized sensor system is used to simplify operation, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensing functions (corrosion sensing, humidity sensing, strain sensing) are merged into integrated edge nodes that perform all functions locally. This consolidation simplifies the overall system architecture by eliminating the need for separate wired connections and power supplies for each sensor type.
Solution Approach 2:
Edge nodes are designed to autonomously collect, process, and relay their own data without requiring manual intervention or complex centralized control for each sensing element. Each edge node independently manages its sensor array and communication functions, reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include a detection system including a base device including a power source configured to provide electrical energy to a plurality of edge nodes of a sensor network and a base data link configured to transmit a sensor interrogation signal to at least one of the plurality of edge nodes in the detection system and receive reporting information from at least one of the plurality of edge nodes, and the plurality of edge nodes sequentially coupled within the sensor network, wherein each edge node includes an edge data link configured to receive at least a portion of the electrical energy and the sensor interrogation signal, relay the at least a portion of the electrical energy and the sensor interrogation signal to a next edge node of the plurality of edge nodes, and transmit to the base device, in response to the sensor interrogation signal, the reporting information including sensor information associated with the edge node or a no selection match indication.