The present invention relates to optical sensors, and more particularly to optical fiber sensors and systems including them. The optical fiber sensor whit long active length is composed of a lead-in fiber that also forms the first FP semi-reflective surface, an outer (semi-conical) wall, a second FP semi-reflective surface, a gutter that surrounds the second FP semi-reflective surface, pedestal and a second lead-in fiber. The active length of fiber sensor is defined by gutter depth. The strain measurement system includes an optical fiber sensor adapted to be coupled to an object undergoing strain, the optical fiber sensor including a lead-in optical fiber and an optical element coupled thereto including s a signal processor coupled to the optical fiber sensor. Signal processor is operable to generate and pass a light signal into the lead-in optical fiber, receive a light signal reflected from at least the retracted surface of the optical element, and determine a strain applied to the object. The main advantage of the proposed sensor system is that cavity length and active length are separated by the gutter length in order to improve sensitivity. Method of manufacturing an optical fiber sensor includes a few possibilities to providing a structure-forming fiber; and micromachining the structure-forming fiber to produce an outer dimension, a pedestal, and a gutter surrounding the pedestal having a gutter depth defining an active region of length. The present invention also relates to measuring system in order to define signal interrogation technique in manner of coupling signal into in-line fiber and receiving of a reflected light signal, all that to determine strain applied to the object.
F.32 International patent
COBISS.SI-ID: 17639190An in-line optical device adapted to be bonded in between ends of an optical fiber line is disclosed. The in-line optical device has an inner optical field interaction region, an outer support structure, and at least one radial opening. In some embodiments, a void region substantially surrounds the inner optical field interaction region. Systems including the in-line optical device and methods of making and using the in-line optical device are provided. Numerous other aspects are provided.
F.32 International patent
COBISS.SI-ID: 17639446