Campaniform sensilla inspired strain sensors for space applications: optimal design
- Paper number
IAC-08.C2.8.1
- Author
Prof. Carlo Menon, Simon Fraser University, Canada
- Coauthor
Dr. Silvio Cocuzza, CISAS G. Colombo Center of Studies and Activities for Space, University of Padova, Italy
- Coauthor
Mr. Manouchehr Mani, Canada
- Coauthor
Mr. behzad jazizadeh, Canada
- Year
2008
- Abstract
Campaniform sensilla are micro-sensors found in the exoskeleton of insects capable of measuring nanometer deformations. These natural strain sensors consist of micro-holes that mechanically amplify deformations without initiating cracks. Insects such as cockroaches and flies can thus use the sensilla to sense strain deformations and to determine both internal loads such as muscle forces and body weight, and external loads such as aerolastic forces on the wings in flight. Strain sensors are of interest for many space applications, especially when slender structures are used or structural frames must be monitored during hazardous mission phases. Strain sensors can also be used as force sensors, especially when they are embedded in cantilevers. Therefore, they are suitable for use in several systems and devices including unlocking systems, docking mechanisms limit and switch devices. In this paper we propose a strain sensor for space applications inspired by campaniform sensilla. Critical parameters such as shape, orientation, and number of the micro-holes are analyzed and a procedure for their optimal design is proposed. Such a procedure is validated with parametric FEM simulations for different test cases. Since the proposed sensor is particularly suitable to be embedded on composite structural materials, the effects of anisotropic characteristics of the substrate on the design of the sensor are investigated. The paper focuses on different micro- and macro- fabrication procedures and different possible configurations that the sensor can have for been successfully implemented on space structures. In particular, a patch-like configuration and an embedded one are proposed. The strain sensor is particularly suitable for large thin structures such as antennas, solar sails, booms and flexible robotic arms.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
(absent)