Detection and monitoring of hidden fatigue crack growth using a built-in piezoelectric sensor/actuator network: II. Validation using riveted joints and repair patches

Abstract

A built-in diagnostic technique for monitoring hidden fatigue crack growth in aircraft structures has been developed in part I of the study. The technique uses diagnostics signals, generated from nearby piezoelectric actuators built into the structures, to detect crack growth. In this second part of the study, the proposed diagnostic technique was applied to monitor fatigue crack growth in riveted fuselage joints and a cracked metallic plate repaired with a bonded composite patch. A complete built-in diagnostic system for the tests was developed, including a sensor network, hardware and the diagnostic software. Predictions were correlated quite well with measurements from the eddy current test and the ultrasonic scan methods as well as visual inspection. The damage index successfully detected both crack growth and debond damage for the structures considered.