Abstract: A non-straight sensor array within a gravity field, within a surface and cyclically surrounding a medial axis. The sensor array includes rigid bodies holding gravimetric tilt sensors, the rigid bodies being connected by flexible joints. The flexibility of the joints is constrained to two degrees of freedom. The shape of the path, the surface, and the medial axis are measured in at least two dimensions, using the tilt sensor data and the geometrical constraints of the joints. The cyclical geometry permits simultaneous measurement of lateral and axial deformations in deployments varying from axially vertical to axially horizontal, as well as improved fit of the array to surrounding surfaces. The field of use includes geotechnical measurements of soil and civil structures.

Abstract: A bipartite sensor array comprising two portions capable of assembly into a single sensory system. A first portion includes rigid bodies connected by elongate flexures and fitted with gravimetric tilt sensors. The elongate flexures are capable of non-monotonic and non-constant bend in two degrees of freedom. A second portion includes rigid bodies connected by joints, contains the first portion. The second portion, which may be delivered and assembled separately from the first, provides rigidity and protection, enabling the first portion to have short rigid bodies and long connecting flexures, thereby reducing the number of sensors required. The bipartite sensor array is applicable to geotechnical measurements of soil and civil structures.

Abstract: A non-straight sensor array within a gravity field, within a surface and cyclically surrounding a medial axis. The sensor array includes rigid bodies holding gravimetric tilt sensors, the rigid bodies being connected by flexible joints. The flexibility of the joints is constrained to two degrees of freedom. The shape of the path, the surface, and the medial axis are measured in at least two dimensions, using the tilt sensor data and the geometrical constraints of the joints. The cyclical geometry permits simultaneous measurement of lateral and axial deformations in deployments varying from axially vertical to axially horizontal, as well as improved fit of the array to surrounding surfaces. The field of use includes geotechnical measurements of soil and civil structures.

Abstract: A bipartite sensor array comprising two portions capable of assembly into a single sensory system. A first portion includes rigid bodies connected by elongate flexures and fitted with gravimetric tilt sensors. The elongate flexures are capable of non-monotonic and non-constant bend in two degrees of freedom. A second portion includes rigid bodies connected by joints, contains the first portion. The second portion, which may be delivered and assembled separately from the first, provides rigidity and protection, enabling the first portion to have short rigid bodies and long connecting flexures, thereby reducing the number of sensors required. The bipartite sensor array is applicable to geotechnical measurements of soil and civil structures.

Abstract: The invention relates to the apparatus for and a method of sensing impact between a vehicle and an object and particularly between a pedestrian and the front bumper (12) of a vehicle. An optical fiber array (14) extends along the bumper (12) and the array (14) has sensors spaced along the bumper (12). A sensor comprises light loss areas spaced peripherally and axially on a fiber. An impact distorts the sensors, modulating light transmitted along the fiber or fibers. A signal is produced which is processed by a signal processor and an output signal generated. The output signal is used to actuate a safety device, such as elevating the vehicle hood to increase clearance between hood and engine, to reduce the severity of any injuries.