ABSTRACT
Recent advances in sensors, microelectronics, and adaptive signal processing technologies have signifi cantly shaped the fundamental approaches to dealing with traditional problems. Imagine a world where mechanical systems achieve optimum functionality demonstrated by biological systems such as the human brain and body. Th ese systems that are known as smart, adaptive, and intelligent could mimic human muscular, sensory, and nervous systems by employing embedded sensors, actuators, advanced signal processing and control capabilities. Micro and nanosensors act as the system’s nerve endings sending signals to the processor (brain), which in turn sends signals to the actuator that take on the role of responsive or adaptive muscles , leading to smart and adaptive response. Furthermore, driven by increased safety and reliability at reduced cost and enhanced performance, key technologies such as electrorheological fl uids, shape memory alloys, piezoelectric materials, magnetostrictive and electrostrictive materials, and micro and nanoelectromechanical devices (MEMS/NEMS) are identifi ed to play a major role in the development of such adaptive systems. One main experienced limitation is the integration
of sensory nodes and sensor networks within a complex system. Among the few sensors suited for incorporation into materials and structures and for the realization of such adaptive and smart systems, optical fi bers are considered to lead the pack in sensor technology . If successfully implemented, this technology is posed to revolutionize the current approaches to systems’ health monitoring and management, performance assessment, and implementation of adaptive systems and structures.
