Sensing and processing for smart structures

It has been only recently that research and development on smart structures has been identified as an interdisciplinary area of activity in its own right. One of the key functionalities required for a structure to be termed "smart" is an ability to sense. Recent developments in fiber optic sensing, noncontact sensor power/interrogation, and long gauge length sensors configured as matched filters will be critical to the successful development of the smart structures of the future. A formal definition of a smart structure is provided and sensing requirements and potential sensing alternatives are discussed. Some data processing options are then covered and near term application areas identified.