Surface Strain Distribution Measurement by using Piezoelectric Sensor Array and Impact Method

Abstract

A simple and low-cost device for surface strain distribution measurement of structural members has been developed and demonstrated. The system use a piezoelectric film as a strain transducer and array of probes made of conductive rubber as a sensing element. Data acquisition system was developed for multi channels sensor interface and high-speed data converter and processing. The experiment was carried out by bending moment using impact method. The validity and accuracy of the device and method are illustrated for (i) a plate with a penetrating circular hole (ii) plates with non-penetrating partial circle crack and (iii) plates with non-penetrating uniform crack depth.