Fiber Optic Multimodal Sensing System

RC Integrated Systems LLC (RISL), with support from Lockheed Martin Space and in collaboration with Kansas State University (KSU) and TechOpp Consulting Inc., proposes to advance the development of a novel Fiber Optic Multimodal Sensing (FOMS) System, providing accurate simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters including pressure, temperature, and strain in high temperature and/or radiation environment. The FOMS addresses NASArsquo;s need for measurement of pressure, temperature, and strain in a high temperature and radiation environment to support rocket ground testing. The FOMS sensors are based on fabrication of unique multimodal sensors along the length of a single unique optical fiber and coating of the fiber with a novel high-temperature-resistance ceramic material. The FOMS system is capable of measuring temperature as high as 1500 degrees C with 0.1 degree C accuracy, strains of up to 10,000 microstrains with 1 microstrain accuracy, and pressure of over 5000 psi with accuracy of 0.2%. The outcome of the Phase I FOMS program was the successful feasibility demonstration of the FOMS technology through extensive design, modeling, prototype development, and laboratory testing and demonstration. Anbsp;Technology Readiness Level (TRL-) 3 prototype was tested in a laboratory environment at temperatures up to 1100 degrees C with the capability to operatenbsp;up to 1500 degrees C. Laboratory testing showed less thannbsp;0.1 degree C in temperature measurement and about 1 microstrain in strain measurement had beennbsp;achieved with the prototype sensor. In addition, the prototype sensor was tested to show high stability and repeatability.nbsp;At the end of Phase II, RISL will perform a TRL-5 prototype demonstrations of the FOMS technology at RISL or anbsp;NASA facility, and will deliver to NASA a fully operational FOMS system prototype.