High Speed Fiber Grating Sensors for Structural Monitoring

This paper provides an overview of selected applications of high speed structural monitoring using fiber grating sensors. Rapid and effective diagnostic capabilities are necessary to respond to changes in structural integrity that may affect safety. In the case of aerospace structures operating at high velocity rapid response has the potential to mitigate catastrophic failure. Similar safety issues apply to civil structures where timely decisions are critical to operations of bridges, dams and buildings. Rapid responses for oil and gas, medical and environmental monitoring applications are also highly important. A great deal of progress has been made in improving the quality and capabilities of high speed fiber grating sensor systems. Some of these systems will be discussed.