Date of Award

Summer 2026

Access Type

Thesis - Open Access

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering

Department

Aerospace Engineering

Committee Chair

Daewon Kim

Committee Chair Email

kimd3c@erau.edu

First Committee Member

Alberto W. Mello

First Committee Member Email

melloa2@erau.edu

Second Committee Member

Yizhou Jiang

Second Committee Member Email

jiangy5@erau.edu

Third Committee Member

Timothy A. Smith

Third Committee Member Email

smitht1@erau.edu

College Dean

James W. Gregory

Abstract

Future lunar and deep-space missions will require new structural concepts that reduce mass while maintaining reliability. Two technologies that have received significant attention are inflatable habitats and additively manufactured structures; however, challenges remain in their characterization, validation, and long-term monitoring. This dissertation investigates methods to improve the testing and sensing of these non-conventional aerospace structures through the use of advanced photogrammetry and embedded distributed fiber-optic sensors. A color-filtering digital image correlation technique was developed to isolate orthogonal strain directions in woven inflatable structures, providing improved characterization of biaxially loaded softgoods. In addition, methods were developed to embed distributed fiber-optic sensors within additively manufactured pressure vessels, enabling measurement of strain and temperature throughout the structure. Experimental testing demonstrated the ability of these sensors to characterize structural response, monitor thermal behavior under cryogenic conditions, and identify manufacturing defects within the printed component. The results of this work provide new approaches for structural characterization and health monitoring and support the future implementation of sensing technologies in next-generation aerospace systems.

Additional Files
GS9_Acceptance_Scott_Bender.pdf (338 kB)
GS9 Acceptance Form
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