A self-referenced optical intensity sensor network using POFBGs for biomedical applications

Sensors (Basel). 2014 Dec 12;14(12):24029-45. doi: 10.3390/s141224029.

Abstract

This work bridges the gap between the remote interrogation of multiple optical sensors and the advantages of using inherently biocompatible low-cost polymer optical fiber (POF)-based photonic sensing. A novel hybrid sensor network combining both silica fiber Bragg gratings (FBG) and polymer FBGs (POFBG) is analyzed. The topology is compatible with WDM networks so multiple remote sensors can be addressed providing high scalability. A central monitoring unit with virtual data processing is implemented, which could be remotely located up to units of km away. The feasibility of the proposed solution for potential medical environments and biomedical applications is shown.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomedical and Dental Materials / chemistry
  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • Humans
  • Optical Fibers*
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Silicon Dioxide / chemistry

Substances

  • Biomedical and Dental Materials
  • Polymers
  • Silicon Dioxide