Trade.Information

EMPIRE - Connectors for composites

Deutsch UK, a interconnect solution provider, is to introduce new cost-saving, patent pending technology, under the name Empire. This technology allows designers to reliably connect embedded optical fibres to external monitoring equipment, eliminating the problems of fixed ‘flying lead’ connections to the structure.

Connection to embedded fibres with Deutsch Empire connectors enables real-time ‘health monitoring’ of structures.

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This can be undertaken from the initial cure cycle right through to final service, even in harshest of environments. It also gives the ability to detect damage to a structure which enables early remedial action to be taken.

As a result the structure is more frequently inspected and the time required for this process is dramatically reduced. It follows that there are significant improvements in safety and service life of the structure.

Additionally, sensor data enables designers to optimise components for performance and cost. These benefits can be extended to existing non-composite structures by retro-fitting the connector as a patch to its surface.

Structure surface and edge connection to both Single and Multimode optical fibre is possible.

Additional benefits include:

* Empire connectors are based on Deutsch’s existing high performance fibre optic connectors for harsh environments.
* Connectors are simple to embed and improve fibre handling.
* Reduces risk of fibre damage during manufacture.
* Designed to withstand the conditions of the composite manufacturing process.
* Small embedded volume and materials compatible with structure.
* Reliable and high performance re-mateable optical connection.
* Combining EMPIRE connectors with a rugged solid state Fibre Sensor Interrogator unit and PC software allows an integrated system to be retro-fitted or designed-in to a wide range of composite structures.

The connector technology has a wide range of applications including:

* Connection to embedded fibre sensors for health, usage and damage monitoring.
* Connection to embedded fibres for communications.
* Aerospace – load-bearing structure strain monitoring - fixed wing and rotor blade.
* Marine - hull, masts, rudders and rigging.
* Wind Energy – real-time turbine blade strain monitoring for improved efficiency.
* Offshore – downhole monitoring.
* Survey – foundation and ground displacement.
* Research and development tool.
* Retro-fit to non-composite applications.


About Deutsch UK:

Deutsch is a world leader in its field. We offer unrivalled expertise in the design and manufacture of electrical connectors and fibre optic connectors; electro-mechanical relays; specialised electronics; and associated components.

Contact Deutsch:

Deutsch UK
Registered in England No. 1399905
Registered address:
Castleham Industrial Estate
4 Stanier Road
St Leonards on Sea
East Sussex
TN38 9RF
UK

Tel: +44 (0)1424 852721
Fax: +44 (0)1424 851532
Email: deutsch@deutsch.net

Release link: http://www.deutschuk.com/site/news.asp