Multiplexed Fiber Optic Sensor System for SHM of Ships: Integration & Validation

In Phase II, IFOS developed a multisource sensor system supporting 128 FBG sensors per node over a range of ±1500 microstrain or 256 sensors per node across ±500 microstrain. A demonstration was given at NSWC Carderock with 60 sensors attached to cantilever beam and 5”x3” aluminum plate sampled at 6 kHz sampling rate. To further mature the technology to TRL 6+ and transition to Navy platforms, especially LCS, IFOS proposes a Phase II.5 program (P2.5) comprised of Base and Option periods. This program aims to meet Navy requirements for demanding sea applications by enhancing and demonstrating system reliability, ruggedness, and scalability. The P2.5 Base includes: enhancement of FBG interrogation hardware/software modules including customized optical, electrical, and mechanical interfaces; design and fabrication of FBG Array (FBGA) sensors with ruggedized mounting techniques; testing on representative large-scale structures at Carderock, and; planning for sea trials on LCS platform. The P2.5 Option includes: addition of fire detection capability using independently routed Raman-based distributed temperature sensing; sensor signal analysis enhancement; testing on LCS platform for field validation of system; analysis of test data to validate performance, and; development of operational and transition plans.