MSU Technologies

NONDESTRUCTIVE IMAGING USING A SPLIT-RING RESONATOR SENSING APPARATUS

VALUE PROPOSITION
With advances in sensors, numerical modeling, image processing, and material science, a diverse range of diagnostic and prognostic techniques are being developed for assessing structural integrity and reliability. Split-ring resonators (SRRs) have been used in the design of metamaterials, largely due to their frequency selective behavior. Specifically, SRRs behave as sub-wavelength resonators when excited by a time-varying magnetic field perpendicular to the plane of the SRRs. Thus, SRRs are able to inhibit signal propagation in a narrow band, close to their resonant frequency. SRRs can be modeled as LC resonant tanks, with a resonant frequency dependent on the SRR unit cell parameters, such as ring size, width, and edge gaps. When excited by a microstrip transmission line, SRRs have demonstrated great potential for bio-sensing applications. The dielectric coupling due to the presence of biomolecules lead to a shift of resonance frequency, which can be utilized for bio-sensing.

DESCRIPTION OF TECHNOLOGY

In this technology a defect sensing apparatus is configured to identify defects or targets in materials. The defect sensing apparatus includes a microstrip transmission line along a length of the defect sensing apparatus and a reference split-ring resonator coupled to the microstrip transmission line. The reference split-ring resonator is located on a reference side of the microstrip transmission line. The defect sensing apparatus includes a first sensing split-ring resonator coupled to the microstrip transmission line. The first sensing split-ring resonator is located on a sensing side of the microstrip transmission line. The defect sensing apparatus includes a second sensing split-ring resonator coupled to the microstrip transmission line. The second sensing split-ring resonator is located on the sensing side of the microstrip transmission line. The microstrip transmission line is configured to excite the reference split-ring resonator, the first sensing split-ring resonator, and the second sensing split-ring resonator. The first sensing split-ring resonator and the second sensing split-ring resonator are configured to scan a sample.

BENEFITS

Enhanced Structural Integrity Assessment: The use of SRRs in metamaterials allows for a more accurate assessment of a material's structural integrity, enabling early detection of potential issues.
Improved Reliability: By employing SRRs in diagnostic and prognostic techniques, the reliability of materials can be improved, as potential defects or targets can be identified and addressed before they lead to failure.
Sub-wavelength Resonance: SRRs can behave as sub-wavelength resonators, allowing for precise control over signal propagation and enabling the inhibition of signal propagation in a narrow band close to their resonant frequency.
Flexible Design: The design of SRRs can be tailored by adjusting parameters such as ring size, width, and edge gaps, allowing for a wide range of applications and customization based on specific requirements.
Real-time Monitoring: The defect sensing apparatus can be used for real-time monitoring of materials, enabling immediate detection of defects or targets and allowing for prompt corrective action.
Data-driven Analysis: The defect sensing system can store and analyze frequency data over time, providing valuable insights into the material's behavior and enabling data-driven decision-making for maintenance and repair strategies.
Compact and Lightweight: SRR-based diagnostic and prognostic techniques can be integrated into compact and lightweight systems, making them suitable for use in various applications, including aerospace, automotive, and structural health monitoring.
Cost-effective: The use of SRRs in diagnostic and prognostic techniques can lead to cost-effective solutions, as they can help reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming inspections and repairs.
Versatility: The versatility of SRR-based diagnostic and prognostic techniques allows for their application across a wide range of materials and industries, making them a valuable tool for ensuring safety, reliability, and longevity in various applications.