Infrared Fiber Imaging Bundles Using Hollow Core Waveguides

Fiber optic imaging bundles have proven extremely useful for enabling the viewing of regions where harsh environmental conditions and/or tight space constraints prevent the use of a close proximity camera. Commercial fiber imaging bundles are typically limited to visible to near-infrared wavelengths, yet there is a need for solutions deeper in the infrared wavelengths, particularly in the mid-wave and long-wave infrared where various thermal imaging cameras operate. This project will produce the technology enabling relatively low-loss infrared fiber imaging bundles spanning the wavelength range from 1 μm to 12 μm. In Phase I, innovative coating techniques and optical system improvements will be developed to reduce the losses in hollow core waveguides. A proof-of-concept sample flexible waveguide bundle will be produced and an optimized Phase II bundle design and manufacturing process will be established. In addition, an overall optical system design and plans for implementation in a relevant environment will be determined. In Phase II, innovative waveguide coating techniques and optical designs will be fully developed, tested, and implemented in a relevant harsh environment. The result of the project will be a relatively low-cost process enabling the production of a wide range of IR imaging probes. BENEFIT: The fiber imaging bundle technology developed under this project will lead to the production of various infrared imaging probes specially tailored for U.S. DoD / NASA combustion test facilities. Such probes will enable better diagnostic testing of turbine engines and various systems under study. In addition, the IR fiber bundle technology that will be developed has a tremendous commercial potential for medical imaging applications, specifically, in-vivo thermal imaging of tissues for cancer screening and endoscopic surgery.