Multi-dimensional damage detection

US9365302B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration · US

Inventors

• Tracy L. Gibson · Melbourne, US
• Martha K. Williams · Titusville, US
• Mark E. Lewis · Mansfield, US
• Luke B. Roberson · Titusville, US
• Sarah J. Snyder · Terre Haute, US
• Pedro J. Medelius · Merritt Island, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 29, 2015
• Grant date: Jun 14, 2016
• Expiry date: Dec 29, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64G1/2227
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Methods and systems may provide for a structure having a plurality of interconnected panels, wherein each panel has a plurality of detection layers separated from one another by one or more non-detection layers. The plurality of detection layers may form a grid of conductive traces. Additionally, a monitor may be coupled to each grid of conductive traces, wherein the monitor is configured to detect damage to the plurality of interconnected panels in response to an electrical property change with respect to one or more of the conductive traces. In one example, the structure is part of an inflatable space platform such as a spacecraft or habitat.