How can aerospace structures be monitored for health and usage?

1 Structural health monitoring

Structural health monitoring (SHM) is the process of detecting, locating, and quantifying damage or degradation in aerospace structures using sensors, data acquisition systems, and algorithms. SHM can provide real-time information about the structural integrity and performance of the components, as well as alert the operators or engineers about any potential failures or hazards. SHM can also reduce the need for costly and time-consuming inspections and repairs, and extend the service life of the structures.

4 Algorithms and software

Algorithms and software are the tools that process and analyze the data collected by the sensors and data acquisition systems. They can perform various tasks, such as signal processing, feature extraction, damage detection, damage localization, damage quantification, damage prognosis, usage estimation, fatigue analysis, and maintenance optimization. The algorithms and software can be either based on physics-based models, statistical methods, machine learning techniques, or a combination of them. The algorithms and software can also provide graphical user interfaces, data visualization, and decision support for the users.

5 Challenges and opportunities

Monitoring the health and usage of aerospace structures is not without challenges. Some of the challenges include the complexity and variability of the structures and their loading conditions, the uncertainty and noise in the data, the trade-off between sensor quantity and quality, the integration and compatibility of different systems and platforms, the security and privacy of the data, and the cost and feasibility of the implementation. However, there are also many opportunities for improving and innovating the monitoring methods and technologies, such as developing new sensors and materials, enhancing the data processing and analysis capabilities, exploring the potential of artificial intelligence and big data, and collaborating with other stakeholders and disciplines.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?