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Vernier-effect optical interrogation technique for fiber Bragg grating sensors
1Department of Electrical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23284, USA. gbtait@ieee.org
Applied Optics
|October 2, 2007
Summary
This study introduces a novel optical sensor interrogation technique using the Vernier effect for precise, real-time strain measurement in fiber Bragg gratings. The compact sensor offers high-resolution strain detection in harsh environments.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Fiber Optic Sensors
- Strain Measurement
Background:
- Multiplexed fiber Bragg grating (FBG) arrays are crucial for distributed sensing.
- Interrogation of FBG sensors often requires complex or bulky systems.
- Real-time, high-resolution strain monitoring is essential in demanding applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a new technique for real-time optical sensor interrogation.
- To leverage the Vernier effect for enhanced strain resolution.
- To develop a compact and robust sensor for harsh environments.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a novel Vernier effect between a multiplexed FBG array's comb wavelength responses and a tunable laser.
- Employing sets of photodetector voltages as unique optical signatures for strain determination.
- Implementing a proof-of-concept experiment to validate the technique.
Main Results:
- Achieved unique strain determination in a single fiber section via optical signatures.
- Demonstrated a compact, lightweight sensor suitable for remote operability.
- Resolved strain values to better than 5.9 microepsilon over a range of nearly 500 microepsilon.
Conclusions:
- The demonstrated technique offers a new method for real-time optical sensor interrogation.
- The novel Vernier effect approach enables high-resolution strain sensing.
- The compact sensor design is well-suited for remote monitoring in harsh, vibrational environments.
