Precision high-frequency pressure measurements in ground and flight test

ABSTRACT: SA Photonics is pleased to propose the development of the Micro Interferometer Pressures Sensor (MIPS). MIPS uses an innovative sensing head structure being developed by our research partner, Virgina Tech. The pressure sensing head is then coupled to SA Photonics"high performance AccuSense photonic distance measurement system. AccuSense has demonstrated the capability of precision Fabry-Perot cavity length interrogation at rates greater than 100 kHz. The result of combining the unique sensing head with AccuSense is a very compact and robust pressure sensor with a sensitivity of better than 0.002 psi per rt-Hz and a high bandwidth of greater than 1 MHz. Furthermore, the unique Virginia Tech sensing head design enable robust operation in extreme environments of greater than 1300°C and exposure to corrosive materials. BENEFIT: The Air Force and DoD are investigating the next generation of hypersonic aerial vehicles. It is critical to have instrumentation to support theoretical modeling and wind tunnel testing of such vehicles. The MIPS sernsor will bring substantial pressure sensor performance improvement in a package that will be compact, robust, manufacturable ,and compatible wind tunnel and field testing. SA Photonics will utilize its AccuSense technology that was originally developed in an MDA Phase II and then refined under Phase III programs form primes. This allows the Air Force and the DoD to leverage past investment into this critical need area.