Fiber Optic Communication Ribbon

In this Phase I SBIR, a team consisting of Fiber Innovations, Inc. (FII) and the University of Delaware Center for Composite Materials propose to develop innovative braided multifunctional fiber-optic ribbons and preforms for integration into compositerocket motor casings for missile applications. The use of braiding allows the integration of fiber optics as a ribbon, overwrap or as part of the casing itself. In addition, multiple fiber-optic cables can be braided together creating a high degree ofredundancy and a highly reliable network, such that damage to one optical fiber does not disrupt communication. The fiber optics will be used for communication as well as sensors using multi-axis gratings. Multi-axis gratings in fiber optics can be used tosense strain, temperature, humidity etc. This enables the optical communications system to also perform the task of health monitoring of the motor casing. The combination of braiding and multifunctional fiber optics will create a low cost, high bandwidthsolution for reliable optical networking between the fore and aft ends of the missile casing. In Phase I of this program, the FII-led team will demonstrate braided configurations with fiber optics, including flat ribbon cable, braided overwrap and abraided cylinder. Specific objectivesfor Phase I are:¿ Develop braiding methodologies and geometries for ribbon, overwrap or integratedcylinder configurations and integrate into sub-scale composite motor casing (cylinders).¿ Demonstrate high-bandwidth communication capability, redundancy and reliability¿ Demonstrate feasibility of multi-functional capability for communications and healthmonitoring.¿ Demonstrate affordability, ease of fabrication and scale-up.