Novel, spatially-distributed optical sensor for unsteady surface pressure

Physical Sciences Inc. proposes to develop an optically-based sensor for real-time measurement of unsteady water turbulence pressure fields with high sensitivity and dynamic range. The sensor is based on a fiber Bragg grating sensing technique applicable for high-speed measurements, incorporating 100 transducers to enable spatially resolved pressure detection. The innovative detection technology relies on time-domain spectral measurements that enable high spectral resolution and time multiplexing of multiple sensing points. A unique mechanical transducer is used to covert pressure to strain with a large magnification ratio for high detection sensitivity and dynamic range. During Phase II, PSI will expand upon the successful results of Phase I to ultimately deliver a Gen-3 system for testing at a Navy water tunnel facility.  The base program will develop a 10-element Gen-1 sensor system and an initial prototype of a Gen-2 100-element system for testing.  The Option-1 program will further mature the Gen-2 prototype and perform additional collaborative testing with the Navy to inform the development of the improved Gen-3 prototype that will be tested and delivered to the Navy sponsor at the conclusion of Option-2.  The effort leverages PSI experience developing and commercializing innovative optical sensing technologies and systems.