Bae Systems, Inc.

Peter David Foote

Ian James Read

Nigel Bruce Aldridge

Geoffrey Martland Proudley

Leslie Charles Laycock

Christopher Stace

Nigel Bruce Alridge

A damage sensor comprises a probe track, a sense track, and a signal generator operable to input a probe signal to the probe track. The probe track and the sense track are electromagnetically coupled by a structure on which they are provided, such that the probe signal induces, in dependence on the degree of electromagnetic coupling between the probe track and the sense track, a sensed signal in the sense track. The magnitude, phase and frequency of the sensed signal can be analysed in order to determine whether and where damage has occurred to the structure.

Damage sensors

Described herein is an apparatus which is, under a range of atmospheric conditions, capable of maintaining the emission of light at a point remote from a light source. Notably, the apparatus is able to heat and distribute a fluid, and by doing so, prevents condensation and ice from forming which could hamper the emission of light. The apparatus comprises a light source and a light emitter, with a light conduit and a fluid conduit running between. A method for using such apparatus is also described.

Heat distribution in a distributed lighting apparatus

A method of and an apparatus for coupling a first optical transmission means (), such as an optical fibre, embedded within an aircraft composite () to a second optical transmission means (), such as an optical fibre, external to the composite () is described. The method comprises locating the position of the first optical means () embedded within the composite () using X-ray scanning for example; forming a passageway () by laser machining or drilling within the composite () to the first optical transmission means (); and establishing an optical connection between the first and second optical transmission means () at the intersection of the passageway () and the first optical transmission means ().

Optically connecting embedded optical fibers in composite panels

A composite for use in the aircraft construction industry includes an optical transmission device, such as an optical fiber, embedded within a carrier. The optical transmission device is provided with a high-quality optical interface surface which provides for optical connection to the optical transmission means from outside the carrier. The optical interface surface is provided as part of a micro-optical component which processes the optical signals to improve light extraction from a supply to the optical transmission means. The buried optical transmission device is accessed by a passageway formed in the carrier to the interface surface. If the passageway is formed prior to completion of finishing processes on the composite, a protective plug is provided to close the passageway until the optical connection is required.

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Trellech, United Kingdom

Peter David Foote