Fiber Optic Sensing Systems for Health Monitoring

Ability to mix and match different measurement types on the same sensor array

Simplified cable management and lightweight fiber

Potential for faster response than thermocouples and longer fatigue life than foil strain gages

Potential for immunity to lightning, high voltages, and corrosion depending on sensor packaging

Ability to embed sensors in composite materials

Application Examples

1. Civionics – distributed measurements over long distances, including bridges, buildings, and other civil structures
2. Energy – monitoring wind turbine blades, pipelines, nuclear reactors, offshore platforms, power generators
 
3. Marine Vessel and Platforms – cargo containers, deck, mast, or any other corrosion-prone structure
 
4. Aerospace – airframe, composite structure, fuel tank, wind tunnels
 
5. Research – big physics, material testing, vehicle prototyping