Research of three-dimensional force sensor based on multiplexed fiber Bragg grating strain sensors

Abstract

Most safety problems of architectural structures are caused by structural deformation, and the structures usually deform in more than one direction. So it is important and necessary to collect the safety monitoring data from all directions. Conventional fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors cannot fully meet the requirements of a modern safety monitoring system in practical application. Therefore, the research of a three-dimensional (3-D) force sensor that can expand the application range of fiber optic sensing technology is necessary and significant. A 3-D force sensor based on multiplexed FBG strain sensors is proposed, which can be used to measure 3-D force on a structure under test, force distribution, and the trend of relative microdeformation. The sensor that has an integral structure with a design has been described in detail, and its sensing principle has been investigated. The results of calibration experiments show that it can accurately and effectively realize the 3-D force measurement with good linearity, repeatability, and consistency. Experimental and analytical results both demonstrate its feasibility. It can work in harsh environments due to its good stability and anti-interference ability. The sensor proposed in this paper has great engineering application value and application prospects in the field of structure health monitoring.