Design methodology and uncertainty estimation of a wireless sensor network for surface strain and shape measurements

Abstract A sensor network has been developed consisting of wireless sensor nodes, that are interconnected by mechanical distance sensors. This approach makes it possible to precisely measure strain and shape of an object. The total number of probes and their positions will vary depending on the shape of the individual object that shall be measured. We developed a design procedure of optimally distributing the network on the surface with respect to the minimum number of sensors to be used taking into account the mechanical boundary conditions. Furthermore, two possible evaluations are shown to determine the measurement uncertainty of the sensor network. This can be used to select the network with the minimum uncertainty. Both methods developed will be illustrated using an artificial surface. Although the example was chosen specifically to achieve the greatest possible clarity, the results can be regarded as generally applicable.