Abstract: A method for forming a structural-strain sensor network on a structure is provided. The sensor network has plural nanocomposite sensing elements having high sensitivity, and can be quickly fabricated. The method comprises attaching a molding layer having openings onto the surface, and filling the openings with a coating material made of nanocomposite hybrid material. After immobilizing the coating material in the openings, the sensing elements are formed and the molding layer is removed. Electrical wires are formed on the surface such that two opposite electrodes are formed on each sensing element. The resistance between the two electrodes indicates a strain experienced. The sensor network finds applications in identifying a damaged location or an impact location on the structure for structural health monitoring. Voltage waveforms measured at the sensing elements are analyzed to estimate the damaged location or the impact location according to a guided-wave propagation model.

Abstract: A method for forming a structural-strain sensor network on a structure is provided. The sensor network has plural nanocomposite sensing elements having high sensitivity, and can be quickly fabricated. The method comprises attaching a molding layer having openings onto the surface, and filling the openings with a coating material made of nanocomposite hybrid material. After immobilizing the coating material in the openings, the sensing elements are formed and the molding layer is removed. Electrical wires are formed on the surface such that two opposite electrodes are formed on each sensing element. The resistance between the two electrodes indicates a strain experienced. The sensor network finds applications in identifying a damaged location or an impact location on the structure for structural health monitoring. Voltage waveforms measured at the sensing elements are analyzed to estimate the damaged location or the impact location according to a guided-wave propagation model.

Abstract: A resistance-voltage (R-V) transformation system used in dynamic strain measurement for a structure is provided. The system has single-channel (SC) circuit units each for producing a voltage corresponding to a resistance of a sensing element of a structural-strain sensing network. Each SC circuit unit has a R-V transformation module for converting the resistance into the voltage, a band-pass filter module for filtering the R-V transformation module output after a direct-current bias therein is removed, and a high-gain amplification module for amplifying the filter output. The band-pass filter module is configured such that an unwanted low-frequency component induced by resistance drift of the sensing element is removed while allowing a guided-wave signal component to pass through.