Fiber-Optic Excavation Monitoring Sensor System

To address the DOT’s need for a new system to detect excavation damage and notify pipeline operators, Intellisense Systems, Inc., (Intellisense) proposes a new Fiber-Optic Excavation Monitoring Sensor (FOCOS) system based on phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (-OTDR), machine learning (ML) algorithms, and Internet of Things (IoT) communication. Specifically, the innovative implementation of -OTDR together with ML algorithms provides vibration detection with high spatial resolution, long sensing range, threat localization/classification, low false alarm rates, and immunity to electromagnetic interference. The novel integration of IoT communication and ruggedized design enables real-time alarm notification and reliability in harsh environments. In Phase I, Intellisense will design the FOCOS system, conduct modeling, and report details of design and requirements. We will demonstrate feasibility by developing and testing a benchtop prototype exceeding DOT’s requirements. In Phase II, Intellisense will improve the FOCOS design based on Phase I testing results and develop a functional prototype with full-scale testing. In addition, Intellisense will collaborate with industry partners to verify that the prototype can meet the performance goals. By the end of Phase II, we will deliver a mature working prototype to the DOT’s PHMSA and the full-scale test of the system, proving its capability to industry partners.