Intelligent and Multiplexable Ultra-High Temperature Fiber Optic Pressure Sensors for Robust Distributed Engine Control

Engines will be getting smaller and hotter for efficiency reasons, requiring novel sensors with extended and enhanced performance. Emerging fiber-optic sensing approaches could provide a unique solution to the widening technology gap between next-gen engine requirements and conventional sensors limited capabilities. The overall objective of this program is to develop techniques to integrate new pressure sensing technologies into turbine engines. In Phase I, the IFOS multidisciplinary team successfully demonstrated the feasibility of two types of fiber-optic pressure sensors to cover a wide range of temperatures. Phase II will build on Phase I results to develop (a) sapphire fiber sensors to reach 3200 F, (b) multiplexible silica fiber sensors to reach 1800 F, (c) FADEC-compatible compact optical sensor interrogation and (d) compatible fiber bus networking. In collaboration with a jet engine OEM manufacturer, we plan to produce complete prototypes including the needed miniaturized interrogators for a low size, weight and power (SWaP) implementation. These technologies will be tested in simulated and relevant environments in preparation for testing on real jets engines post-Phase II. Optical networking using MIL-STD-1760 standard will also be demonstrated in collaboration with a prime in order to develop a compete deployment solution.