Abstract: A leading edge sensor is disclosed. The leading edge sensor may include a tape section and a sensor configured to be disposed on the tape section. The leading edge sensor also includes a first electrode connected to a first end of the sensor and a second electrode connected to a second end of the sensor. The tape section is configured to be attached to a leading edge of at least one blade of a wind turbine, and the sensor configured to detect wear associated with the leading edge.

Abstract: Implementation of high performance controllable damping devices can ameliorate cost-effectiveness of structural systems for mitigation of natural hazards relative to structures such as building, wind turbines, and off-shore structures. However, the applications of these damping systems are limited due to a lack of 1) mechanical robustness; 2) electrical reliability; and 3) large resisting force capability. To broaden the implementation of modern damping systems, a semi-active damping device is proposed. The device, in one form termed Banded Rotary Friction Device (BRFD), has enhanced applicability compared to other proposed damping systems due to its cost-effectiveness, high damping performance, mechanical robustness, and technological simplicity. Its mechanical principle is based on a band brake, which results in a high amplification of the input force while enabling a variable control force.

Abstract: A method for tire sensing includes providing a tire comprising (a) a tire body having an outer wall for contact with a surface and opposite side walls, and an inside surface and (b) at least one flexible strain gauge positioned along the inside surface of the tire body, wherein the at least one flexible strain gauge is positioned to sense tire deflections or strain. The method further includes sensing tire data indicate of the tire deflections using the at least one flexible strain gauge and communicating the tire data to a data acquisition system, control system, or computer system. The flexible strain gauge(s) may be soft dielectric capacitive sensors, soft resistive sensors, or soft capacitive/resistive sensors.

Abstract: A picktip is provided and includes a picktip member configured to extend along a longitudinal axis defined in parallel with emissions from an ultraviolet (UV) light source. The picktip member partially includes UV transparent material through which the emissions are directed and has an end face from which the emissions are exited. The picktip member defines vacuum pathways terminating at the end face, and the end face has a non-planar topography.

Abstract: A picktip is provided and includes a picktip member configured to extend along a longitudinal axis defined in parallel with emissions from an ultraviolet (UV) light source. The picktip member partially includes UV transparent material through which the emissions are directed and has an end face from which the emissions are exited. The picktip member defines vacuum pathways terminating at the end face, and the end face has a non-planar topography.

Abstract: A structural health monitoring system is provided to diagnose and localize crack damage on structural elements. The system uses one or more capacitive sensor assemblies that employ a soft dielectric material. The system can be applied over a large area as a sensing skin, allowing the presence of cracks to be localized.

Abstract: A structural health monitoring system is provided to diagnose and localize crack damage on structural elements. The system uses one or more capacitive sensor assemblies that employ a soft dielectric material. The system can be applied over a large area as a sensing skin, allowing the presence of cracks to be localized.