Investigative research into the structural embedding of electrical and mechanical systems using ultrasonic consolidation (UC)

Investigative research in the development of smart systems through embedding electrical and mechanical devices is presented. Several methods are proposed for the development of the technology, including: design rule development through experimentation, definition of the process and the design, fabrication and testing of a prototype panel using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices, as well as the proposed top-level investigation of the steps required for space qualification. Additionally, certain anticipated problems during the investigation and embedding process are delineated to prepare for potential research impediments.