Initial Trial using Embedded Fibre Bragg Gratings for Distributed Strain Monitoring in a Shape Adaptive Composite Foil.
Scientific Publication
- Report Number:
- DSTO-TN-1070
- Authors:
- Davis, C.; Norman, P.; Kopczyk, J.; Rowlands, D.
- Issue Date:
- 2012-02
- AR Number:
- AR-015-236
- Classification:
- Unclassified
- Report Type:
- Technical Note
- Division:
- Air Vehicles Division (AVD)
- Release Authority:
- Chief, Air Vehicles Division
- Task Sponsor:
- CDS
- Task Number:
- CERP 07/292
- File Number:
- 2012/1014115/1
- Pages:
- 19
- References:
- -
- Terms:
- Bragg gratings; Deflection; Composite structures
- URI:
- http://hdl.handle.net/1947/10185
Abstract
This technical note reports on the embedment and testing of a series of distributed optical fibre sensors embedded just beneath the top and bottom surfaces of a shape adaptive composite foil. The sensors were monitored during the resin infusion and curing stages of the composite foil fabrication process. The cured foil was tested in a variable pressure water tunnel at different flow rates, angles of attack and tunnel pressures to characterise the distributed strain response of the foil to these parameters.
Executive Summary
The work described in this technical note supports the smart propeller activity in the Signatures, Materials and Energy Corporate Enabling Research Program (SME-CERP). The aim of the smart propeller activity is to develop and evaluate the capability to perform in-situ monitoring, and non-destructive evaluation, of the structural fatigue and hydrodynamic performance of composite materials.; In order to avoid the significant practical challenges associated with experimental measurements of deflection and strain on a full-scale rotating propeller, a composite foil specimen amenable to a laboratory investigation was designed to experience similar loading and deflections to a full-scale propeller blade.; The shape adaptive composite foil specimen was fabricated with a series of distributed optical fibre sensors embedded just beneath the top and bottom surfaces. The sensors were monitored during the resin infusion and curing stages of the fabrication process. The cured foil was tested in a variable pressure water tunnel at the Australian Maritime Collage (AMC) Cavitation Research Laboratory (CRL) at different flow rates, angles of attack and tunnel pressures to characterise the distributed strain response of the foil to these parameters.; This data will be used to validate the analytical techniques and manufacturing methods used in creating the foil.