Calibration of a Discrete and Distributed Fiber-Optic-Based Strain-Measuring Network for the Shape-Sensing of a Wing Model Under Dynamic Loading of a Wind Tunnel

Abstract

Fiber-optic-based, real time, dynamic discrete and distributed strain-based shape sensing techniques were applied to a specially designed, rapid prototype wing (made of ULTEM-9085), preparing it for wind tunnel testing. This work describes the calibration methodology of the sensing network, including the accurate spatial mapping of the sensing points with respect to the structure, as well as the network responses to prescribed bending, torsion and impact loading. Much less intrusive than electrical strain gauges, the calibrated fiber-optic sensing network successfully provided real-time tracking of the wing aeroelastic performance in wind tunnel experiments, which culminating in wing flutter.