Project OptiSens

SMART SENSORS MONITOR MATERIAL PROPERTIES

In-situ testing requires various readings to be taken in the same location in order to detect any effects and separate them if necessary. The OptiSens project therefore aims to produce a cost-effective sensor for impedance, temperature and protons by printing. These innovative sensors enable cross-linking progress to be analysed in situ during the production of thermoset composites, in-situ impedance measurement methods to be established in the engineered wood and composites industry, and material properties to be monitored throughout their lifecycle. OptiSens sensors make wood and composite materials smart and enable their custom use in the manufacturing chain as advocated for Industry 4.0 by making information available that is critical to the materials. Furthermore, the sensors may provide a technology platform for a new sensor system in applications for measuring the vitality of living cells.

OPTISENS CONSORTIUM

The consortium brings together an interdisciplinary team with expertise in the fields of chemistry, physics, biology, electronics, printing and device manufacturing as well as potential users. Also involved in the project are research institutes, companies, technology and component suppliers and developers.

OPTISENS OBJECTIVES

The focus of the OptiSens project is to produce a cost-effective sensor for impedance, temperature and protons by printing. The innovative technology platform enables:

• In-situ analysis of cross-linking progress during production
• The establishment of the measuring technique in the engineered wood and composites industry
• Monitoring of material properties throughout the lifecycle
• Communication between the material, developer and consumer
• A new sensor system in applications for measuring the vitality of living cells.