Light Structures - Hull Stress Monitoring Systems

Light Structures AS is the leading supplier of fiber optic hull stress monitoring systems worldwide. Fiber optic systems offer improved reliability and data quality compared to conventional technology. Our product range includes fiber optic sensors, optoelectronic data acquisition units and software for data analysis and presentation that we assemble to turnkey systems. Remote operation from onshore is available. We also offer service agreements with onboard training, and report / analysis services.

CLASS APPROVED HULL MONITORING SYSTEMS

Light Structures delivers a range of different monitoring configurations. Entry-level systems monitor hull beam loading with four to six sensors placed on longitudinal girders. More comprehensive solutions include fatigue monitoring with dedicated sensors in the waterlines and slamming detection. For advanced hulls such as high-speed ferries, naval vessels and specialty vessels, we offer tailor-made solutions with a virtually unlimited number of stress sensors.

We deliver systems according to DNV HMON, ABS HM, BV MONHULL and LR hull monitoring rules.

FIBER OPTIC SLOSHING MONITORING SENSORS

Light Structures has recently developed a new line of fiber optic sensors for monitoring the sloshing pressure in tanks. The sensors are applicable to LNG containment systems, and offer the possibility to measure sloshing pressures without penetrating the primary membrane. The pressure sensors may be fitted with integrated temperature sensors, and may be combined with fiber optic stress sensors on the tank walls.

DECISION SUPPORT ON BRIDGE

The Graphical User Interface SENSFIB Hull Info presents the information from the hull monitoring system in a user friendly manner. Views include stress levels, fatigue monitoring, trends and warnings, statistical information, load history and alarms.

Hull Info has been designed in co-operation with masters and mates, and effort has been made to present the data in a manner that is easily accessible.

CONDITION MONITORING AND ONSHORE MANAGEMENT

Light Structures offers services in data management onshore to help the maintenance planners and other onshore personnel manage the assets in the best way. Reports, which summarize the hull condition, are available based on data from the HSM system. Data can be transferred for onshore analysis in automatic emails or on backup media. It is also possible to remotely service the system from onshore.

Regular condition reports are a supplement to inspections and provide hull status documentation that can be used towards maintenance planning, customers, authorities, environmental groups and potential buyers.

FIBER OPTIC SENSORS FOR SURFACE MOUNTING

Our fiber optic strain sensors are based on Fiber Bragg Gratings and come with individual temperature compensation. They are approved for mounting at up to 6 bar of water pressure. Their relative small size means that they are easily installed on girders and stiffeners in all parts of the hull. Mounting the sensors on girders and stiffeners ensures that measurements are not contaminated by local vibrations caused by equipment on deck, etc.

Sensors are fastened with adhesives for optimal stress transfer from the hull surface and can be incorporated in the vessel's coating regime with an unbroken membrane covering the sensor and the surrounding metal.

Fiber optic sensors offer an electromagnetically passive and intrinsically safe solution with no electrical power outside the central data processing unit, which can be placed in equipment rooms near the bridge. Signals are not affected by electrical fields, and all cables can follow either signal or power cable paths.