Optical Fiber Networks for Remote Fiber Optic Sensors

Montserrat Fernandez-Vallejo,Manuel Lopez-Amo

doi:10.3390/s120403929

Montserrat Fernandez-Vallejo, Manuel Lopez-Amo

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/s120403929

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Abstract

This paper presents an overview of optical fiber sensor networks for remote sensing. Firstly, the state of the art of remote fiber sensor systems has been considered. We have summarized the great evolution of these systems in recent years; this progress confirms that fiber-optic remote sensing is a promising technology with a wide field of practical applications. Afterwards, the most representative remote fiber-optic sensor systems are briefly explained, discussing their schemes, challenges, pros and cons. Finally, a synopsis of the main factors to take into consideration in the design of a remote sensor system is gathered.

Highlights

A sensor network is an array of sensors that are deployed either directly inside the element to be assessed or very close to it
The crucial feature of optical fiber is its dual functionality, it is a sensing structure in view of the measurand induced changes of the light properties that propagates in the fiber, and a communication channel, meaning there is no need for an additional telemetry path, contrary to what
In order to surpass this limit, fibre Bragg gratings (FBG) sensors systems based on a fiber linear laser scheme are a promising alternative due to the fact that they have demonstrated several advantages, such as high resolution or high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) against noise environments in practical applications

Summary

Introduction

A sensor network is an array of sensors that are deployed either directly inside the element to be assessed or very close to it. In order to surpass this limit, FBG sensors systems based on a fiber linear laser scheme are a promising alternative due to the fact that they have demonstrated several advantages, such as high resolution or high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) against noise environments in practical applications. As a consequence of this second advantage, the amplification wavelength range may be extended and the ripples in the spectral gain may be reduced by using multiple pumps at different wavelengths and adjusting carefully their powers These properties are extremely useful for the development of broadband multichannel systems, in which a large number of signals are multiplexed. The summary table only contemplates remote sensor systems with, at least, some tens of kilometers

Demonstrated Systems

Results and Discussion

Conclusions