Slimme stalen aandrijvingen: optische sensortechnologie voor real-time belasting-, conditie- en levensduurvoorspelling van planetaire tandwielkasten in defensietoepassingen

Gearbox integrated photonics

SMART GEAR develops an optical measurement system based on Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors based on integrated photonics, that is embedded directly into the gearbox structure. This enables direct measurement of strain, vibration and temperature at the gear tooth, rather than indirectly through the housing. The optical sensors are inherently immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI), making them particularly suited for defence applications in contested electromagnetic environments.

The project advances the technology from proof-of-concept to validation under representative conditions. A dedicated test rig will be built with a representative planetary gearbox, in which FBG sensors are integrated and systematically tested under progressively increasing degradation. The measurement data are translated into damage indicators and prognostic models for Remaining Useful Life (RUL) prediction. The result is a validated prototype and the knowledge base for condition-based maintenance of planetary drivetrains.

The technology is inherently dual-use: beyond defence, the system is directly applicable in wind energy, marine propulsion, offshore and heavy industry. Sensing360 is already active in several of these markets. The project strengthens the Dutch knowledge position at the intersection of photonics, circularity and Smart Industry, and contributes to the Dutch National Leading Area of Smart Materials.