Fast four-channel fibre-optic displacement sensor for measuring impact waves at low cost

• We have developed a fast four-channel fibre-optic sensor for measuring dynamic surface displacements caused by shock waves. Light from an LED emitter is sent through a plastic fibre and reflected from the surface back into the fibre. The intensity of the reflected light gives the distance to the surface unambigously. Based on simple principles and utilizing inexpensive components, micrometre and microsecond resolution is achieved at lower cost and with easier usage than for interferometric methods and with better reliability than an accelerometer. The sensor is comparatively easy to set up. It is battery operated for reduced sensitivity to electromagnetic interference. The design of the fibre probe facilitates access in narrow and hostile environments.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Produktionsteknik, arbetsvetenskap och ergonomi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Production Engineering, Human Work Science and Ergonomics (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Cost

Displacement

Distance

Fibre-optic

Impact waves

Intensity

Plastic fibre

Industrial engineering and economy

Industriell teknik och ekonomi

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)