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- 2013 (2)
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- Fibre-optic sensor (2) (entfernen)
Fiber-optic strain sensors are increasingly used in very different technical fields. Sensors are provided with specifications defined by the manufacturer or ascertained by the interested user. In some cases, sensor specification is not sufficiently validated and must therefore additionally be validated in a laboratory, primarily to ensure reliable measurement information over the intended period of operation. Even if the performance of delivered sensor is well specified, the sensor's strain characteristics and the performance of an applied sensor can significantly differ from the virgin sensor's performance. In this case, applied sensors do not provide full reliability and lead sometimes to uncertain measurement results. This contribution will therefore focus on the role of validation in avoiding a decrease or even deterioration of the sensor function of applied sensors. Experimental validation - not only modelling - is very important, however, before experimental investigations are planned knowledge about key issues and problems that influence the measurement results must be available. Few aspects to be considered and investigated will be discussed. Selected experimental facilities to reveal weaknesses in the sensor function will be described; an outlook to open questions is given.
Currently, fibre-optic sensors (FOSs) are commonly used if special requirements make the application of electrical sensors impossible, or economic benefit is promised. The scientific background of FOS technology is well developed; however, there are still some restrictions with respect to long-term reliable use. For widespread practical use, sensor products must be manufactured, characterized and validated according to standards. Guidelines on how to apply sensors and evaluate their operation on-site including special facilities to evaluate applied sensors are needed. This paper will focus on important aspects, such as when FOSs may be used under real practical conditions, and will present validation methodologies to evaluate the overall quality of the sensor system's function. It will also indicate the lack of knowledge and methods to be elaborated to promote the use of FOS.