FIBER OPTIC REFRACTOMETERS FOR FOOD PROCESS MONITORING APPLICATIONS

During Phase I, the F&S team successfully demonstrated the feasibility of two high-resolution optical fiber refractometers which overcome many limitation of existing refractometer instrumentation for complex food process monitoring applications. The F&S optical fiber refractometers are based on patented and patent- pending sensor designs which avoid alignment of multiple bulk optic components in the sensor head, allowing an extremely small sensor element. The small size, high resolution, temperature compensation capability, and ability to multiplex numerous sensors along a single optical fiber, make the Phase I prototype refractometers extremely competitive with existing refractometer instrumentation. Based on the successful results and commercial potential of the Phase I prototype system, F&S has gained the support and interest of a number of food processing companies. Based on on-site demonstration and discussions, all of these companies have expressed interest in evaluating Phase II prototype systems for eventual integration into their manufacturing process. Phase III funding commitments are currently being discussed, and written agreement is anticipated by May 1999.