Test & Measurement - December 2024
From space satellites to the factory floor to medical labs, innovative test technologies are enabling major performance, quality, and cost improvements. Read about these and other applications in a new report from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology magazines.
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Overview
The December 2024 Special Report on Test & Measurement presents a comprehensive overview of recent advancements and innovations in the field, focusing on technologies that enhance data acquisition, measurement accuracy, and process monitoring across various industries.
One of the standout features of this report is the introduction of the WirelessArray system developed by IC2. This system revolutionizes flight testing by utilizing a network of sensor nodes, each equipped with a small computer, data storage capabilities, and a web server. These nodes can collect extensive datasets over long periods without the need for constant physical access, thanks to their self-charging batteries and solar panels. The system supports various sensors, allowing for flexible applications, such as monitoring community noise or assessing flight test data for remotely piloted vehicles. The environmentally hardened enclosures of the nodes ensure reliable performance in diverse weather conditions, making them suitable for long-term deployment.
The report also highlights the ForgeStar® program from Space Forge, which aims to leverage the unique conditions of space to produce ultra-pure materials, particularly high-performance semiconductors and super-alloys. The low-gravity and vacuum environment of space allows for fewer defects and superior material properties, presenting significant opportunities for advancements in manufacturing and technology.
Marposs, a key player in the automotive industry, is featured for its commitment to quality control and process monitoring. With over seven decades of experience, Marposs specializes in tailored measurement and testing solutions that support the evolving needs of automotive manufacturers, particularly in the context of the industry's shift towards sustainable mobility. The report emphasizes the importance of safety in electric vehicles, particularly concerning lithium-ion batteries, which can pose risks such as thermal runaway. Marposs is actively developing solutions to monitor and control manufacturing processes for critical components like Electric Drive Units and batteries.
Additionally, the report discusses advancements in remote sensing technology, particularly a new AI model developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. This model enhances the accuracy of remote sensing data by autocorrecting distortions caused by atmospheric conditions, enabling high-fidelity data collection with limited input.
The report also touches on innovative materials, such as a stretchable "smart mesh" created through a two-mode cutting fabrication process, showcasing the intersection of material science and engineering.
Overall, the December 2024 Special Report on Test & Measurement encapsulates the dynamic landscape of the industry, highlighting the integration of advanced technologies, the importance of safety and quality control, and the potential for groundbreaking developments in materials and manufacturing processes. As industries continue to evolve, the insights and innovations presented in this report will play a crucial role in shaping the future of test and measurement practices.
