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Fiber Optic Distributed Sensors for High-resolution Temperature Field Mapping
Published on: November 7, 2016
Fiber optic distributed temperature and strain sensing system based on Brillouin light scattering
Tianying Chang1, David Y Li, Thomas E Koscica
1Optical Fiber Sensor Technology & Engineering Research Center, School of Control Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China. changtianying@hotmail.com
Applied Optics
|November 22, 2008
Summary
A new method enhances Brillouin distributed temperature and strain sensing (DTSS) spatial resolution by using modulated laser pulses and a novel detection technique. This approach improves signal strength and offers superior performance over conventional fiber optic sensing systems.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Fiber Optic Sensing
- Signal Processing
Background:
- Brillouin distributed temperature and strain sensing (DTSS) systems are crucial for monitoring infrastructure.
- Conventional DTSS methods face limitations in spatial resolution and signal strength.
- Improving these parameters is essential for enhanced sensing accuracy and range.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce an innovative method for significantly improving the spatial resolution of Brillouin DTSS.
- To enhance the strength of the Brillouin backscattered light.
- To develop a novel, simplified heterodyne detection scheme for Brillouin signals.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a combination of internal laser modulation and an external modulator to generate dual-wavelength, variable-pulse-width light pulses.
- Implementing an isogenous heterodyne detection method that processes only backscattered light, eliminating the need for external reference light.
- Integrating these techniques into a 13 km single-mode fiber optic DTSS.
Main Results:
- Achieved substantial improvements in spatial resolution compared to conventional DTSS.
- Successfully strengthened the Brillouin backscattered light signal.
- Demonstrated the experimental feasibility and theoretical advantages of the proposed system.
- The isogenous heterodyne detection proved effective without requiring additional reference light.
Conclusions:
- The presented method offers a significant advancement in Brillouin distributed temperature and strain sensing technology.
- The novel pulse generation and detection techniques provide enhanced spatial resolution and signal quality.
- This approach represents a practical and effective improvement over existing fiber optic sensing solutions.
