Embedded Sensor System for Laminated Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor systems for laminated structures cannot directly monitor environmental conditions such as stress forces and temperature changes within the structure, as they are typically mounted on the exterior and do not provide accurate internal measurements.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system is introduced that includes a sensor assembly with anchor members and a sensing line extending between them, forming a sensor chamber, which can sense stress forces and temperature changes within the laminated structure. The sensing line is configured to extend through transport tubes without tension, allowing for accurate measurement of internal conditions without causing stress on the sensing line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are mounted on the exterior surface of laminated structures, then the structure can be kept simple and lightweight, but the sensors cannot provide direct monitoring of conditions within the interior of the laminated structure
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is nested between layers of the laminated structure itself. The sensor chamber is formed within the laminate by utilizing the space between layers, with anchor members embedded in the laminate structure. This nesting approach allows internal monitoring without adding external complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is segmented into discrete components: sensor assemblies are placed at specific locations between laminate layers, with individual sensor chambers formed between anchor members. This segmentation allows distributed monitoring of different internal locations while keeping each sensor unit relatively simple.
2Ease of operation
If the sensing line is extended through transport tubes to allow access outside the structure, then the sensing line can transmit data externally, but tension on the sensing line may cause stress that affects measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
Transport tubes serve as intermediaries that provide a dedicated pathway for the sensing line to exit the laminate structure. The tubes are configured to guide the sensing line without imposing external forces, allowing the line to transmit data externally while remaining isolated from stress sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing line is routed through the transport tubes in a manner that maintains uniform stress distribution along its length. By ensuring the line passes through the tubes without localized bending or compression points, the system achieves equipotential stress conditions that prevent measurement errors.
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
This solution enables direct monitoring of internal stress forces and temperature changes within laminated structures, providing accurate data for improved structural integrity and durability analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The sensing line may include a configuration within the sensor chamber for sensing one of stress forces within the laminated structure
Implementation Method 2
The sensing line may include a configuration within the sensor chamber for sensing one of stress forces within the laminated structure, temperature or temperature changes within the laminated structure
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A sensor system for a laminated structure may include a sensor assembly disposed between a first layer and a second layer of the laminated structure. The sensor assembly may include a first anchor member and a second anchor member spaced at a predetermined distance from one another. A sensor chamber is formed between the first and second anchor members. The sensor assembly may also include a sensing line extending through the anchor members and the sensor chamber. The sensing line may include a configuration within the sensor chamber for sensing one of stress forces within the laminated structure, temperature or temperature changes within the laminated structure. A first transport tube may extend from the first anchor member opposite the sensor chamber and a second transport tube may extend from the second anchor member opposite the sensor chamber. The sensing line extends through the first and second transport tubes.