Theme 2 (1995-1999):
Structurally Integrated Fibre Optic Sensing
Director: Dr. Raymond Measures,
University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies
As a co-founder of ISIS Canada, Dr. Raymond Measures launched the research program of Theme 2 in 1995. The objective at the time was to develop advanced fibre optic structural sensing technology, address the material issues necessary to allow this technology to be broadly implemented, and to explore the application of this technology to innovative structures and rehabilitation schemes based on the use of advanced composite materials. The research included the following:
- Development of long gauge fibre optic structural sensing based on interface fibre Bragg grating to laser diode.
- Field testing of short/long gauge fibre optic sensors in major structures.
- Exploring the prospect of developing a universal Bragg grating sensor demodulation system based on the tunable laser.
- Development of an interface optical connection for smart reinforcements.
- Investigation of the influence of pultrusion on response and service life of the embedded fibre optic sensors in fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) reinforcements and smart patches.
- Development and testing of user-friendly fibre optic Bragg grating sensors data acquisition interface using tunable wavelength features, with particular emphasis on quantum-well electroabsorption devices.
- Investigation and improvement of the efficiency of the coupling of the laser and optical fibre using angle facets ranging from 0 to 10 degrees to determine the optimal angle.
- Working with Theme 1 to design and optimize the device's characterization, packaging and demodulation systems using a prototype tunable laser.
In 1997, Dr. Measures retired and Dr. Roderick Tennyson was appointed Director of Theme 2. Commencing on April 1, 1998, the continuing research in Theme 1 became part of Theme 2 and Dr. Tennyson's responsibilities increased accordingly.
At the commencement of Theme 2 in 1995, the following slate of projects were involved.
Fibre Optic Structural Sensor Development (T2.1)
Project Leader: Dr. Raymond Measures, University of
Toronto
 Beddington Trail Bridge Field Demo
Material Integration and Applications of Fibre Optic Structural Sensing (T2.2)
Project Leader: Dr. Raymond Measures, University of
Toronto
Sensor and Optoelectronic Demodulation System Integration (T2.3)
Project Leader: Dr. Raymond Measures, University of
Toronto
The research within the foregoing projects was organized so that, collectively, the results of the joint undertaking would achieve the objectives of the initial Theme 2, as outlined in the foregoing Theme Overview provided on this web site.
Achievements within Theme 2 by the spring of 1997 were as follows:
- Built a tunable DBR laser diode system programmed by a computer.
- Demonstrated a tunable laser approach in which a displacement resolution of a few microns had been achieved.
- Developed the first truly distributed strain sensing system of interest to construction and other industries.
- Devices were demonstrated for single Bragg grating fibre optic sensors with an excellent resolution and an accessible wavelength gauge of 90-nm.
Completed Research 1995 to 2006
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