Earthquake Engineering Research - HKU Libraries - The University ...

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Damage quantification is Ultrasonic waves, X-ray, gamma ray,
difficult currently GRP, computer termography, etc.
Vlaterial
degradation (e.g.
corrosion)
Damage
quantification
MEMS Technology
MEMS technology has reduced the size and cost of sensors for many applications. Current MEMS
sensors include accelerorneters, temperature sensors, relative humidity sensors, etc. The reduction of the
size and cost allow MEMS sensors to be applied densely over large areas. An added advantage of these
small sensors is that they do not interfere with the function of the structure. In aerospace applications,
MEMS sensors can be placed on the wing without changing the airfoil characteristics. Current MEMS
sensors are wired with power provided from outside sources. Internally powered MEMS will expand the
use of these small sensors to more applications.
Critical problem
MEMS sensors
Reasons this problem is
important
Potential low cost
Small size
Transparency (low added
weight and low profile)
Enabling technology to
solve this problem
Maturing MEMS
technology
Research
Dense sensor arrays
Reliability and durability
of sensors
Semi-Active Control
The semi-active control technology is maturing to the point that it is used in production automobiles. In
structural applications, it has been shown to be effective while consuming a small amount of energy. In
many applications, the energy from small batteries suffices. This is particularly important because
passive and active controllers have their limitations. The panel recognizes that this technology is being
applied in Asia for infrastructure control. Its use in USA is limited to one application presently. The
discussion panel identified the durability of MR fluids used in most semi-active controllers to be an area
of continuing research.
Critical problem
Semi-active control
Reasons this problem is
important
Passive and active
controllers have
limitations.
Enabling technology to
solve this problem
Research
More robust MR fluids for In application stage
a wide range of systems Durability of MR fluid