Line-Distributed Hoop Strain Sensor

Vibrations of large objects can cause structural fatigue, cracks and even collapse. Therefore, it is important to monitor the vibrations of large valuable structures to ensure structural integrity. Current hoop strain sensing systems use a large number of point sensors such as accelerometers or fiber Bragg Gratings. These systems are complex, difficult to install, have high maintenance and require significant signal processing. Therefore, easy to install and low maintenance hoop strain sensing systems capable of measuring average circumference strain with very high sensitivity and dynamic range are needed. SA Photonics technologies have enabled the construction of high performance hoop-strain-sensing systems. SA Photonics will construct the system using our RIS, ND and SBE technologies. The hoop-strain-sensing system will have sensitivity down to nano-Epsilon and dynamic range over 80 dB. It will operate under wide temperature ranges, insensitive to vibration and EM interference. It will also be rugged and easy to install.