High-resolution liquid level sensor utilizing a microwave photonics interrogated multicore fiber interferometer.

Area of Science:

• Fiber optics
• Optical sensing
• Interferometry

Background:

• Traditional liquid level sensors often lack the required sensitivity and resolution.
• Existing methods may be susceptible to environmental factors, impacting long-term stability.
• The integration of multicore fibers (MCF) in interferometric systems presents opportunities for enhanced sensing capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and experimentally demonstrate a high-resolution, high-sensitivity liquid level sensor.
• To leverage a multicore fiber (MCF) Michelson interferometer (MI) for precise liquid level detection.
• To utilize a microwave photonics filter (MPF) system for improved sensor interrogation.

Main Methods:

• A Michelson interferometer (MI) was constructed using a multicore fiber (MCF).
• The sensing fiber was attached to a cantilever beam to detect curvature changes due to liquid level variations.
• A microwave photonics filter (MPF) system was employed for interrogating the sensor, enhancing measurement resolution.
• Precise angular calibration of the MCF was performed to optimize sensor sensitivity.

Main Results:

• The proposed liquid level sensor demonstrated a sensitivity of 10.35 MHz/cm.
• An impressive resolution of 0.04835 cm was achieved within a measurement range of ±14 cm.
• The sensor exhibited high sensitivity, superior resolution, and long-term stability.

Conclusions:

• The developed MCF-MI sensor interrogated by an MPF system offers a promising solution for accurate liquid level monitoring.
• The sensor's design provides significant advantages in sensitivity and resolution over conventional methods.
• This technology holds potential for applications requiring precise and stable liquid level measurements.