Lockheed Martin Corporation
Strain gauge detection and orientation system

Abstract:

A system includes a signal generator configured to generate a signal, the signal being a constant frequency signal or the signal ranging in frequency during a time period. The system includes a probe electrically coupled to the signal generator, and the probe is configured to hover across or touch an encapsulated or uncapsulated strain gauge. The probe includes a coil and a stylus. The coil is configured to receive the signal from the signal generator and generate a magnetic field. The stylus is configured to transmit the magnetic field to the strain gauge. The system includes a data acquisition component coupled to the strain gauge. The data acquisition component is configured to receive stimulus data from the strain gauge, resulting from the magnetic field transmitted by the probe. The data acquisition component is configured to determine whether the stimulus data from the strain gauge is above a threshold, and if so, determine that the strain gauge is operable.