3D-Printing Techniques on the Development of Multiparameter Sensors Using One FBG

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Sensing
• Materials Science and Engineering
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Multiparameter sensing often requires multiple sensors, increasing complexity and cost.
• Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) are versatile optical sensors but typically measure single parameters.
• Developing a single FBG for simultaneous measurement of multiple physical parameters remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a single fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor capable of multiparameter sensing.
• To investigate a novel method of embedding an FBG within a 3D-printed structure to achieve dual-peak spectral division.
• To demonstrate simultaneous measurement of temperature, strain, and force using a single FBG.

Main Methods:

• A fiber Bragg grating (FBG) was half-embedded in a custom 3D-printed structure.
• Numerical analysis was conducted using coupled-mode theory and a modified transfer matrix formulation.
• Experimental validation involved exposing the sensor to varying temperatures, strains, and forces.

Main Results:

• The 3D-printed structure induced spectral division in the FBG, creating two distinct peaks with differential sensitivities.
• Experimental results confirmed unique sensitivities for each peak across temperature, strain, and force variations.
• The sensor system achieved simultaneous estimation of strain, temperature, and force with relative errors as low as 4%.

Conclusions:

• A single FBG, integrated with a 3D-printed structure, can effectively perform simultaneous multiparameter sensing.
• The differential spectral response of the dual peaks allows for the deconvolution of multiple physical parameters.
• This technique offers a promising, cost-effective solution for advanced sensor applications requiring simultaneous measurement.