Anchoring points for fibre optic strain sensors

Reliability of the measuring devices is very important problem. Efficient fibre optic strain and stress sensors are moving fast to in-the-field applications, such as aircraft wing stress monitoring, stability control and structure monitoring of bridges, marine vessels, tunnels and for mining environment. Key factor for reliable long term operation of such sensors is interface between fibre and external world, the anchoring mechanism. Novel anchoring method is described. It is based on fixation through friction forces applied on optical fibre by thin film of solder material. Use of metal coated optical fibre is discussed.