SensoSkin – component condition monitoring through sensitive outer skin

In the SensoSkin project, scientists work on component condition monitoring using a »sensitive outer skin«. For this purpose, the functional principle of the condition-monitoring periosteum in the endoskeleton of vertebrates is transferred to technology. Sound is emitted into the component to be monitored by a source of excitation (e.g., by operational vibrations, impacts, or piezo elements). The sound passes through the potentially damaged component areas and affects lightwave signals, which pass through fiber-optic Fibre Bragg Grating sensors on the opposite side. The change in the lightwave signals can be precisely recorded using an interrogator and then analyzed. This enables conclusions to be drawn about the component's condition, and defects inside the component can be detected. The envisaged solution implements a new, potential-based condition monitoring technology, especially for multi-material components, which makes it possible to replace components only when necessary and exploit lightweight construction potentials to a greater extent.


Further information: CU reports 01/2021: Focus 2021 Bionics (german)