Integration of sensors in sandwich composites for the detection of structural damage

Abstract A decisive factor in achieving the climate targets of German government is reduction CO2 through gradual electrification transport. In battery-electric vehicles, energy storage system typically positioned close to ground under passenger cell. Thus, crossing obstacles or typical load scenarios affecting underbody play a crucial role for vehicle safety. Currently, such battery protection structures usually consist thick-walled aluminum, steel titanium constructions, which results increased weight and manufacturing costs [1]. Higher moving masses electric vehicles lead high resource consumption their life cycle. this context, represent lightweight that are safety critical parts protecting from impact events medial influences. Additionally, these general large-scale parts, show potential mass functional integration conditions monitoring system. Therefore, focus presented paper on development functionally integrative structure, sandwich lay-up glass fiber reinforced plastic (GRP) cover sheets polymeric foam middle. addition purely mechanical unit, structure should be able detect classify any damage occurring module above it caused by events. structure-integrated sensor also focused, shall used determination extent damage, means service activities component replacements will only carried out when necessary not within predefined maintenance intervals. Based detailed requirement profile comparison selected concepts out. For further investigations, three types (pressure sensor, strain inductive sensors) examined more detail. investigations regard positioning composite ability detecting different cases were planned issue clarification possible options terms technology. purpose, so-called e-preforming technology used, enables an automated application elements. conductor track contacting electronic components investigated. The initial case automotive applications transferred aviation aeronautical industry. particular, influence approaches design structural health systems.