Compact Fiber Optic Strain Sensors (cFOSS) Element

<p>Armstrong researchers are reducing the Fiber Optic Sensing Sysme (FOSS) technology&rsquo;s size, power requirement, weight, and cost to effectively extend opportunities for broader fields of application. Unlike current commercially available systems, which are limited by the number of fibers that are interrogated simultaneously, Armstrong&rsquo;s cFOSS technology maintains its multi-fiber capability (four or eight fibers) while providing a smaller overall form factor. FOSS is the size of a shoebox and weighs 28.5 pounds; cFOSS will be the size of a 6-inch cube and weigh less than 10 pounds. Each component within the system has been custom-designed specifically for miniaturization, thus reducing capital costs. As industries strive for ever smaller profiles, this miniaturization will be an important benefit for multiple markets. For example, small aviation UAVs would benefit significantly from this smaller, more compact, and lightweight package.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Work to date: </strong>In partnership with the AERO Institute, researchers have flown the cFOSS v1.0 system, a convection-cooled 5-lb version, on a small UAV, interrogating four fibers simultaneously.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Looking ahead: </strong>By the end of December 2015, cFOSS v2.0, with conduction cooling, will fly on an Antares rocket.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Benefits</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Cost-efficient:</strong> Each component within the&nbsp;system has been custom designed specifically&nbsp;for miniaturization, thus reducing capital costs</li><li><strong>Compact:</strong> The miniaturized size requires less&nbsp;associated hardware than existing systems</li><li><strong>Reliable:&nbsp;</strong>Components are customized for aggressive environments yet maintain a compact form factor</li></ul><p><strong>Applications</strong></p><ul><li>Aeronautics and launch vehicles</li><li>Medical procedures</li><li>Drilling</li><li>Wind energy</li><li>Automotive testing</li><li>Industrial processes</li></ul>

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