Some time ago, there were reports about a bird impact detection system foreseen for the new Boeing 747-8, possibly for monitoring the wing's leading edge. Now, that the plane is flying, I haven't really found evidence about this system any more. In the past, there were statements suggesting, that it might in part be based on printed electronics or printed sensors at least.
Does anyone have information about this system? Has it really been implemented, or is it to be filed under "plans and visions"? If it is in fact a reality, can anyone comment on it or suggest references describing it? I'd be interested in its physical realization, its capabilities, the issue of data evaluation (done in flight and in the plane, or after read-out on the ground), etc.
Dear colleagues, just to add to this, here is a link from 2010 - the system is mentioned in the second paragraph of the text. Is there really no one out here who knows more about it?
http://www.idtechex.com/research/articles/printed-electronics-usa-2010-highlights-00002894.asp
There was a leading edge impact detection system implemented on the space shuttle, see: http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/02/obss-sensor-protect-soyuz-flyaround-wleids-status-reviewed/
I do not know about the Boeing 747-800.
Regards, Dave.
Dear Dave,
thanks for your feedback!
I suppose it was much easier to "just do it" for the shuttle, since this was almost a one-of-a-kind product and not a series like a commercial airplane, and besides almost fully taken apart after each flight (?).
For the 747-8, as it seems the systems was most probably not included in the final product, and I wouldn't be surprised if this was not for tchnical reasons, but for lack of regulations answering some critical questions like actions to be taken after sensor failure and the like.
However, this is just guessing, I'd still be interested in the true answer to this.
Best regards,
Dirk
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