Integration and evaluation of a meander-shaped fibre-optical sensor in a GFRP leaf spring

Abstract

Fibre-reinforced plastics experience an increasing attention also in the non-aerospace sector. However, the detection of possible internal damage of safety-relevant components remains a challenge. In previous work, a meander-shaped sensor layout with a single fibre-optical sensor was proposed as a particularly efficient and reliable layout and its suitability was demonstrated in coupon tests. In the present work, the approach was transferred to a leaf spring made of glass fibre reinforced plastics and investigated in an extensive test campaign with a realistic test setup. The investigations show the particular suitability of the proposed meander-shaped sensor layout for simultaneous loads monitoring and structural health monitoring.

New Concept of Dual-Sinusoid Distributed Fiber-Optic Sensors Antiphase-Placed for the SHM of Smart Composite Structures for Offshore

“…Fiber-optic sensors (FOSs), as shown in Figure 1, have proven strain-measuring capabilities and suitability for embedment into CFRP composites [15,[22][23][24][25][26]. Their immunity to electromagnetic interference and noise and their intrinsic link to optical transit cables allow them to keep the signal quality with low loss, such that their sensing functions can be extended for long-distance applications [1,23,24].…”

“…This requires sensors be bonded/embedded into strucs at representative locations, in addition to being installed on surfaces, which can also nce protection of sensors from external harsh environments [1][2][3][4][5]15,[18][19][20][21]. Fiber-optic sensors (FOSs), as shown in Figure 1, have proven strain-measuring calities and suitability for embedment into CFRP composites [15,[22][23][24][25][26]. Their immuno electromagnetic interference and noise and their intrinsic link to optical transit caallow them to keep the signal quality with low loss, such that their sensing functions be extended for long-distance applications [1,23,24].…”