ENHAnCE · European training Network in intelligent prognostics and Health mAnagement in Composite structurEs

European training Network in intelligent prognostics and Health mAnagement in Composite structurEs

The ENHAnCE project aims to revolutionize the health management of composite structures by training the next generation of scientists to integrate advanced sensing technologies and prognostics engineering into structural systems. This initiative seeks to transform traditional composite structures into intelligent cyber-physical systems. ENHAnCE focuses on converting composite structures from purely physical entities into cyber-physical systems through the integration of health monitoring data into onboard expert systems. These systems, equipped with diagnostic and prognostic capabilities, are developed from the design stage to full technology deployment, ensuring effective knowledge transfer to industry and practitioners. The project aims to extend the lifetime and optimize the serviceability of composite structures, significantly reducing maintenance costs. This transformation is expected to have a substantial economic and societal impact, particularly in aeronautics and wind energy industries where maintenance is critical for competitiveness and sustainability. The project has several key objectives. It aims to develop innovative embedded sensors capable of real-time damage identification and integrate them within composite plates. Additionally, it seeks to formulate novel mathematical and simulation tools to analyze the interaction of sensor signals with damage in composites. Another goal is to create real-time, self-adaptive prognostics algorithms using integrated sensor data. Lastly, ENHAnCE aims to develop a cyber-physical structural information system based on the Plausible Petri Net (PPN) paradigm. The project has made significant progress in several areas. Firstly, it has developed minimally invasive SHM sensors capable of real-time damage identification. These sensors can withstand high stress levels similar to those in aeronautics and wind applications. A method was also created to extract electronic signals from ultrasound sensors through carbon nanotube non-invasive wires, reducing traditional cabling issues. Additionally, an ultrasonic welding method for embedding these sensors was developed. In conclusion, the ENHAnCE project has significantly advanced the sustainability and competitiveness of composite materials. The research and technologies developed have crucial applications in aeronautics, wind turbines, and other automotive sectors. The project's findings, published in top scientific journals, highlight the potential of integrating advanced sensing and prognostics technologies to enhance the maintenance and longevity of composite structures. This initiative has laid the groundwork for future innovations in the field, emphasizing the importance of integrating health management systems into composite structures to achieve optimal performance and cost-efficiency.

Текст от CORDIS, на английски · Данни: CORDIS, © Европейски съюз