Functional evaluation of robust-laser-interferometer (RLI)-developed-technology system design choices

System design choices are evaluated for selecting an affordable and effective configuration for the implementation of robust laser interferometer (RLI) developed technology as a principal element of Turbine Engine Health Monitoring. System assessment capability previously demonstrated is reviewed and utilized to identify ´notional system configurations´ for evaluation. Examples of previously demonstrated capabilities include selections from RLI participation in the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Program turbine engine seeded fault testing at Pratt and Whitney, and selections from the demonstration of an RLI fiber-optic prototype system design. Notional system configurations are described in terms of their reliance on differing ´functional measurement capabilities´, including: reliance on ´conventional vibration´ information (50 kHz and lower); reliance on wideband information (260 kHz and lower), including both conventional vibration information and acoustic emissions (AE); reliance on narrowband (NB) AE information; and reliance on wideband measured AE information (80 kHz to 260 kHz e.g.). Criteria for system evaluations are introduced.