Sensing Applications in Aircrafts Using Polymer Optical Fibres

Abstract

We report on recent advances in the use of inexpensive polymer optical fibres (POFs) for sensing applications in avionics. The sensors analysed in this manuscript take advantage of the unique properties of polymers, such as high flexibility, elasticity, and sensitivity, and they range from strain, elongation, and vibration interrogators to level and temperature meters, leading to cost-effective techniques for structural health monitoring in aircraft structures. We also highlight recent power-supply methods using Power-over-POF in order to feed sensors remotely, and we discuss the constraints imposed by connectors on the performance of POF networks in aircrafts.

Optical Fibre-Based Sensors—An Assessment of Current Innovations

“…It is stated in [ 140 ] that a wide range of applications for POF-based sensors in avionics are feasible. Since the results demonstrate high sensitivity, as well as a high degree of signal repeatability and linearity, the employment of such sensors for strain sensing in avionic structures is quite promising.…”

“…It works by comparing the phase differences of two modulated light signals. If one of the POFs (POF 1) elongates, the signal that reaches the matching photodetector (Receiver 1) phase shifts [ 140 ].…”

“…( d ) Diagram of the POF elongation sensor, which measures how long an aeroplane flap has extended. The light signal is modulated using a voltage-controlled oscillator [ 140 ].…”

Biocompatible, Antibacterial, and Stable Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Ionic Gel Multimodal Sensors for Healthcare Applications

“…Flexible strain sensors are emerging technologies with immense potential for various applications in fields such as flexible electronics, soft robotics, and healthcare. − These sensors stand out in detecting and measuring changes in strain, pressure, and force on surfaces where traditional rigid sensors fall short. − Nonetheless, current flexible strain sensors face limitations, including sensitivity due to the use of rigid substrates, which may impede the accurate detection of small changes, a crucial factor in applications where precision and accuracy are of utmost importance. − …”

Development of low-cost sensors for structural health monitoring applications

“…In fact, the past failures of civil structures have increased the interest of engineers and researchers in SHM applications [17] as the central system of preventing future accidents and human death [18]. Applications for SHM systems provide assessments on the status of structures, how they operate, and how they respond structurally [19].…”