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Adaptive Cure Controller Using Multiplexed Fiber Optic Sensors

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Air Force
Contract: N/A
Agency Tracking Number: 32218
Amount: $96,902.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N/A
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: N/A
Award Year: 1996
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
P.O. Box 11704
Blacksburg, VA 24062
United States
DUNS: N/A
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Russell May
 (540) 231-8402
Business Contact
Phone: () -
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

Fiber & Sensor Technologies (F&S), teaming with Virginia Tech, proposes to develop an adaptive control system for cure of thermoset resins during manufacture and repair of polymer matrix composites. Leveraging DOD-sponsored development of fiber optic cure monitor sensors, F&S will develop an embeddable "sensor string" by multi-plexing pressure, temperature, and viscosity sensors on a single optical fiber, to measure the material state of the resin internally. A PC-based controller interfaced to the sensors will execute a control algorithm employing an analytical cure model optimized for use with the sensors, building on substantial cure model development at Virginia Tech. By employing a closed-loop, adaptive system to control the pressure and temperature of a mold or autoclave, processing times for composite manufacturing will be reduced, lowering costs and scrap rates, while improving uniformity and mechanical properties.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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