Advancing Sensing and Structural Health Monitoring of Non-Conventional Space Structures

<p>Future lunar and deep-space missions will require new structural concepts that reduce mass while maintaining reliability. Two technologies that have received significant attention are inflatable habitats and additively manufactured structures; however, challenges remain in their characterization, validation, and long-term monitoring. This dissertation investigates methods to improve the testing and sensing of these non-conventional aerospace structures through the use of advanced photogrammetry and embedded distributed fiber-optic sensors. A color-filtering digital image correlation technique was developed to isolate orthogonal strain directions in woven inflatable structures, providing improved characterization of biaxially loaded softgoods. In addition, methods were developed to embed distributed fiber-optic sensors within additively manufactured pressure vessels, enabling measurement of strain and temperature throughout the structure. Experimental testing demonstrated the ability of these sensors to characterize structural response, monitor thermal behavior under cryogenic conditions, and identify manufacturing defects within the printed component. The results of this work provide new approaches for structural characterization and health monitoring and support the future implementation of sensing technologies in next-generation aerospace systems.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis - Open Access

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Aerospace Engineering

Year

2026

Author dc:creator

• Bender, Scott

• Additive Manufacturing
• Softgoods
• Embedded Sensors
• Fiber Optic Sensing System
• Digital Image Correlation
• Pressure Vessel
• Structures and Materials

Repository record dc:identifier

https://commons.erau.edu/edt/1003

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:commons.erau.edu:edt-2047