Impact detection system for structures during their storage and transport

This paper considers the unexpected deterioration of structures due to impacts, within the scenario of Industry 4.0. More specifically, this research includes the detection of damages that cannot be seen using only a visual inspection and which might occur during the stages prior to the final assembly of the components on structures, i.e., the manufacturing, the transportation, the storage, and the delivery. The research is focused on the detection of damages inside structures due to unexpected impacts during the early manufacturing stages. In the case that any damage is detected, not only the strength of the impact is recorded, but also the date and time of the event are stored in the system memory. Hence, the continuous monitoring helps the correct identification of responsibilities for any damage incurred. Two panels, one metallic and one composite, were assessed using the developed system.