Title :
SAW sensor for fastener failure detection
Author :
Wilson, W.C. ; Rogge, M.D. ; Fisher, B. ; Malocha, D.C. ; Atkinson, G.M.
Author_Institution :
Nondestructive Evaluation Sci. Branch, NASA Langley Res. Center, Hampton, VA, USA
Abstract :
The proof of concept for using surface acoustic wave (SAW) strain sensors in the detection of aircraft fastener failures is demonstrated. SAW sensors were investigated because they have the potential for the development of passive wireless systems. The SAW devices employed four orthogonal frequency coding (OFC) spread spectrum reflectors in two banks on a high temperature piezoelectric substrate. Three SAW devices were attached to a cantilever panel with removable side stiffeners. Damage in the form of fastener failure was simulated by removal of bolts from the side stiffeners. During testing, three different force conditions were used to simulate static aircraft structural response under loads. The design of the sensor, the panel arrangement and the panel testing results are reported. The results show that the sensors successfully detected single fastener failure at distances up to 54.6 cm from the failure site under loaded conditions.
Keywords :
aircraft; cantilevers; design engineering; elasticity; failure (mechanical); failure analysis; fasteners; mechanical testing; piezoelectric devices; spread spectrum communication; strain sensors; structural panels; surface acoustic wave sensors; SAW strain sensor design; aircraft fastener failure detection; bolts; cantilever panel testing; high temperature piezoelectric substrate; orthogonal frequency coding; passive wireless systems; removable side stiffeners; spread spectrum reflector; static aircraft structural response; surface acoustic wave;
Conference_Titel :
Sensors, 2010 IEEE
Conference_Location :
Kona, HI
Print_ISBN :
978-1-4244-8170-5
Electronic_ISBN :
1930-0395
DOI :
10.1109/ICSENS.2010.5690796
