Feature

Optical strain sensor delivers high-precision measurements

Avago Technologies has introduced a cost-effective polymer optical fibre (POF) based strain sensor for industrial applications. Its precision is on a par with current fibre Bragg grating based strain sensors.

01/12/2013 11:30:53

The POF forms a 'meander path' sensor array that allows a single fibre to form multiple loops that fit in a confined area. These loops, when strained, alter the phase of the optical signal transmitted via the fibre.

A separate reference loop that is not strained surrounds the meander path and is used to compare the reference signal to the strained signal and the difference in phase between the two signals can be converted into the strain measurement.

The reference fibre simultaneously provides temperature compensation. Since the sensing array only contains optical fibres, it is immune to EMI and EMC related interference and is completely electrically isolated from the rest of the system.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.