Fiber-Optic Etalon Pressure Sensor System with High Thermal and Mechanical Stabilities for Rotor Blade

Aerodynamics has important applications in high-performance military airplanes and helicopters, missiles and balloons. Despite the powerful computer simulations today, aerodynamic experiments and measurements are still needed for the input parameters to the simulation, for the final verification of results and routine monitoring of performance. One critical aerodynamic parameter is air pressure. Our proposed etalon pressure sensor has a few Pascals of pressure sensitivity and dynamic range from 0 atm to at least 2 atm thanks to its optical interferometer. The high thermal and mechanical stabilities qualify these sensors for high-temperature applications and field deployment. The pressure measurement system uses wireless optical communication with the rotary component under test. In Phase I of this program, we propose to demonstrate a bench-top system with several high-sensitivity etalon pressure sensors with high temperature and mechanical stability. In Phase II, we will develop the complete pressure sensor system using existing fiber optic components with monitoring and feedback control software. Throughout Phases I and II, we will collaborate with Doric Lenses, our supplier of high-stability etalon components, and work with Boeing to establish a working test, most likely on their rotor blades and aircraft turbine engines.