DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM WITH OPTICAL SENSORS (DESIGN VERSIONS) Russian patent published in 1999 - IPC

FIELD: detecting mechanical strain and temperature differences. SUBSTANCE: system has adjustable narrow-band light-beam source that generates variable-wavelength light beam and transmits it to light- conducting fiber. Reflecting sensors such as Bragg diffraction gratings are arranged lengthwise of fiber. Sensors pass light beams of wavelengths corresponding to their transmission minimum and varying under effect of disturbances acting on them. Wavelength adjustment circuit controls adjustable light source thereby affording scanning of generated light beam within predetermined wavelengths so as to illuminate each individual sensor with light whose wavelength corresponds to its transmission minimum. Power of this light beam transmitted by sensors is converted by detector into electric signal which is processed in signal processing circuit. The latter detects dips in power pattern of light beam received by detector and generates output signals carrying information about characteristics of disturbance acting on each sensor. System may be open without feedback for measuring static strain or feedback-closed for tracking variations in static and dynamic strain. System may be also built around Fabry-Perot circuit at the same time ensuring high response to strain. System may be changed over to make sensors reflect or transmit light beam. EFFECT: enlarged functional capabilities. 29 cl, 6 dwg