Abstract: A self-diagnostic accelerometer (SDA) field programmable gate array (FPGA) may be capable of real time or near-real time diagnostic processing to determine potential accelerometer issues during flight or other mission critical operational situations. The SDA FPGA may determine accelerometer structural health and an attachment condition using an electronics system that is smaller, more energy efficient, and more cost effective than previous diagnostic tools. Advantages of the system may include diagnosing sensors automatically, immediately, actively (i.e., confirming the fault), and consistently, without the influence of a human operator. Customizable SDA algorithms may be adjusted to the specific needs of the sensor/environment.

Abstract: A compact shock sensing system and method that employ a light sheet generator that can be used either as a solo aerodynamic shock detector or in a combination with a scanning mode shock sensor is disclosed. This shock sensing system and method can be used to detect and track unstable and travelling shocks in high speed aerodynamic flows, such as those found in supersonic inlets.