PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS OF TEMPERATURE EFFECTS AND MANEUVER-INDUCED DEFORMATIONS ON FBG OPTIC FIBER INTEGRATED SYSTEMS

This article examines the data provided by a network of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors integrated into an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) structure. The primary objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of utilizing such sensors as a monitoring system for maneuver-induced deformations and temperature variations. The aim is to provide a tool that enhances the reliability of navigation systems. For this purpose, the FBG sensors were strategically integrated into various positions on the UAV. Specifically, they were arranged along one wing half, spanning its wingspan, and on the fuselage, positioned near its center of mass as feasible. The experimental trials were conducted in two phases, with the initial phase executed on the ground and the subsequent phase conducted in flight. The primary objective of the first phase was to ascertain the dynamic response of the structure experimentally. This aimed to assess the minimum sampling frequencies required during flight phases. During the flight test, due to limitations on the amount of data that could be transmitted to the ground, it became necessary to lower the sampling frequencies below the minimum values determined during the ground phase. Despite these limitations, the FBG-based sensors demonstrated their efficacy in capturing dynamic structural changes during maneuvers, offering valuable insights into mechanical deformation and temperature fluctuations. Comparing the results provided by the FBG network with the data supplied by a traditional accelerometer placed on the UAV throughout all phases, the proposed system presents a promising approach to provide an alternative data source, thereby enhancing the reliability of current navigation systems. This sensor network, therefore, enables the provision of a dataset originating from a distinct physical principle, consequently avoiding the same sources of disturbance and malfunction.