RFID Based Composite Smart Patches Using Direct Print Strain Sensors Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-025 Topic Title: RFID Based Composite Smart Patches Using Direct Print Strain Sensors Proposal No.: N091-025-1114 Firm: Luna Innovations Incorporated 1 Riverside Circle Suite 400 Roanoke, Virginia 24016 Contact: Fritz Friedersdorf Phone: (434) 220-0148 Web Site: www.lunainnovations.com Abstract: Composite patch repair systems have become increasingly relevant to modern military and commercial aviation for repairs of structural damage to aircraft surfaces and structures. A technique is needed to monitor the structural health of these composite patches to ensure structural integrity and safety of the repair without compromising structural performance of the patches. In order to monitor the boding state of the patches throughout their lifetime a method for embedding strain sensing elements directly onto the composite ply used in these patch repairs is sought. Luna, along with teeming partner Robocasting Enterprises LLC, proposes to develop a direct-write process for embedding strain sensors in composite repair patches using conductive inks. A RFID based transducer interface will also be developed and combined with these novel strain transducers to create a Smart Patch platform which enables maintainers to easily read and track the health of composite patch repairs on aircraft structures. Luna has developed extensive expertise in composites, embedded sensing, transducer development, conductive polymers, and integrated structural health monitoring (ISHM) and will leverage this experience to successfully develop the propose Smart Patch system. Benefits: The product of this proposed effort will be an integrated health monitoring device for composite repair patches using a passive RFID interface. In addition to interest from military aircraft maintainers, commercial aircraft owners are also pursuing using composite patching techniques over traditional metal plate lap joint repairs. Luna's Smart Patch technology and process for direct printing strain transducers directly on composites will serve that commercial interest as well. The basic technologies involved with the Smart Patch system will have much broader impacts. The RFID base sensing platform developed for this specific application is compatible with a wide variety of sensing transducers including temperature sensors, corrosion and corrosivity monitors, and pressure transducers. This technology has the potential to impact health monitoring applications in corrosion monitoring, patient care, infrastructure monitoring, and product safety. Return