Stability and Reliability of Fiberoptic Measurement Systems — Basic Conditions for Successful Long-Term Structural Health Monitoring

Abstract

Creation and development of long-term stable and reliable monitoring systems for large structures require the separate consideration of the relevant system components. The principle contributors: sensing element, cables/couplers, and sources/demodulation systems require very different reflection in regard to reliability and stability. Additionally, those aspects influence considerably the method of sensor application and its quality. The paper discusses the basic requirements on long-term monitoring systems, considers reliability aspects for different sensor application methods and provides important reliability aspects when fiber optic sensors are integrated into materials and structures. Emphasis is given on validation of measurement systems as a very important step for potential users and the use of a clear vocabulary when describing quality parameters of system components or entire monitoring systems.