Multipoint Fiber Optic Sensor for Cryogenic Fuel Leak Detection

Intelligent Optical Systems (IOS) Inc., a world leader in fiber optic sensing technology, proposes to develop a newmulti-point fiber optic sensors (MFOS) sensor system for the remote detection of cryogenic (hydrogen and oxygen) fuel leaks in evolved expandable launch vehicle (EELV) propulsion technology. The proposed fiber optic sensing technology is directly applicable to NASA's Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) strategy. MFOS system operation is based on the use of miniature optrodes (optical point sensors) sensitive to cryogenic fuel and effluent gases distributed at multiple locations along the length of an optical fiber bus. Using a novel fluorescence-based approach to hydrogen sensing allows common signal processing (quench-monitoring) for both oxygen and hydrogen; a third temperature-sensitive fluorescent optrode assures good performance over the entire 0F to 140 F temperature range. The proposed MFOS technology offers a low-cost, reliable solution to reducing planned ground processing (trouble shooting) through the predictive capabilities of real-time monitoring of system health and streamlined problem isolation, and will improve ground and flight safety through early detection and prediction of component failures and by improving visibility into critical safety systems.