Sensor network based on multiplexed intermodal fiber interferometers for quasi-distributed measurements.

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Sensing
• Fiber Optic Interferometry
• Sensor Network Technology

Background:

• Multiplexing multiple fiber interferometers (IFIs) is challenging.
• Achieving a linear response to external impacts is crucial for sensor networks.
• Few-mode fibers and spectral interrogation offer potential for improved IFI performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a sensor network based on multiplexed intermodal fiber interferometers (IFIs).
• To investigate different multiplexing schemes (serial, parallel, combined) for IFIs.
• To develop a physical-mathematical model for predicting sensor network performance.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a few-mode fiber and spectral interrogation with Fourier analysis.
• Developed a physical-mathematical model for the sensor network.
• Experimentally implemented and tested a sensor network with six combined-multiplexed IFIs.

Main Results:

• The combined multiplexing scheme demonstrated the best signal-to-noise ratio.
• The implemented sensor network provided a linear response for each IFI.
• Experimental results showed a crosstalk level of no more than 5% between IFIs.

Conclusions:

• A sensor network based on multiplexed IFIs can achieve a linear response to external impacts.
• Combined multiplexing is the optimal scheme for maximizing signal-to-noise ratio in IFI sensor networks.
• The developed sensor network offers a promising solution for high-performance impact sensing with minimal crosstalk.