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<p>This research project is evaluating an innovative technique that uses fiber optic strain sensors to measure structural deformations and full field strains. An inverse finite element method (iFEM) analysis reconstructs a deformed structural shape based on the strain measurement data simulated by FEM analysis to represent the <em>in-situ</em> strain measurements. By mapping the iFEM displacement solution onto a full FEM model, without the applied loading, the complete fields of displacement, strain, and stress are reconstructed to a high degree of accuracy. This project supports the work on multiple flight research projects at NASA Armstrong.</p><p><strong>Work to date</strong>: The team has completed and validated a 1-dimensional beam element test using a compliant slider mechanism.</p><p><strong>Looking ahead</strong>: Future plans involve developing and validating the algorithm on a full size flight test article.</p><p><strong>Benefits</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Accurate</strong>: Algorithm is capable of accurate full-field structural shape and strain measurement</li><li><strong>Economical</strong>: Uses a minimum number of sensors to recreate the full-field structural deformations and strains</li><li><strong>Improves safety</strong>: Enables more efficient health monitoring of control surfaces and flexible structures</li></ul><p><strong>Applications</strong></p><ul><li>Aircraft wing flaps</li><li>Helicopter blades</li><li>Motor vehicles</li><li>Trains</li><li>Ships and submersibles</li><li>Wind turbines</li></ul>