Ultrasonic SHM System

A Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) system with an ultrasonic transducer includes three key components: the ultrasonic transducers, which generate and receive high-frequency sound waves to detect flaws or structural changes; the hardware, which collects and processes the signals generated by the transducers; and the software, which analyzes the data in real-time and provides insights into the structural integrity. This system is used to monitor critical infrastructure, providing early detection of damage, reducing maintenance costs, and ensuring safety.

Direct-write (DW) Ultrasonic Transducer for SHM

Features

In-situ ultrasonic transducer
On-board SHM system with advanced monitoring algorithm
Provides real-time information on structural health (cracks, corrosion, erosion, and delamination)
Consistent acoustic coupling between ultrasonic transducers and the host structure
Tested via US standard (MIL-STD-810H)

Solution Characteristics

High reliability
Lightweight
Low-profile
Highly conformable

Benefits

Informed preventive maintenance
Minimized unexpected downtime
Improved reliability
Reduced inspection costs

Safety and environmental impact

Profit loss due to downtime
Public or workplace safety concerns
Spillage or leakage causing negative environmental impact or disaster

Ultrasonic SHM System Hardware

A miniaturized ultrasonic SHM system can be connected to the direct-write ultrasonic transducer array, with the options for customization based on user-specified connectors. The system wirelessly transmits ultrasonic signals to a computer for further post-processing.

More details

This diagram provides an overview of the system's operation, showing

The sensor array connects to signal processing units,
Transmits data wirelessly
Allows for real-time viewing on a personal computer (PC)
Enables historical data storage
Seamlessly saves data to the Cloud

Specifications:

Hardware

Dimensions (L × W × H) : 21.5 cm × 7.0 cm × 4.8 cm
Weight: 300 g
Battery life: 6 months (1 test per day)
Ultrasonic channel: 32 transmit/receive channels

Data Handling and connectivity

Automated data collection
PC/server connection: WiFi
Wireless transmission range: at least 10 m
Data output format: CSV file

Pulser

Excitation waveform: bipolar square wave
Excitation frequency: 0.1 MHz to 10 MHz
Excitation voltage 3-50 Vpp

Receiver

Gain: up to 21.3 dB
Sampling frequency: 40 MHz

Software Interface

The software interface will be designed and customized to align with the unique requirements and applications of each end-user. This customization ensures an intuitive and efficient user experience, optimizing the interface for the specific tasks, workflows, and operational environments in which it will be utilized. By focusing on user needs, we provide a solution that enhances functionality, streamlines processes, and maximizes the effectiveness of the system for its intended purpose.

Our software provides real-time data visualization for multiple sensors, allowing users to monitor and analyze sensor data instantly as it is collected. The system processes input from various piezoelectric sensors simultaneously, displaying critical metrics.

In addition, the software offers comprehensive historical data analysis and display functionalities. This feature enables users to access, review, and analyze archived sensor data over time, providing insights into long-term performance trends, wear-and-tear patterns, or structure health. The historical data can be presented in detailed charts or reports, enabling predictive maintenance and strategic planning. This dual capability of real-time and historical analysis makes the software a robust tool for optimizing operations and improving the longevity of monitored systems.

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