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Advances in Optical Fiber-Based Sensors

A special issue of Sensors (ISSN 1424-8220). This special issue belongs to the section "Optical Sensors".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 October 2025 | Viewed by 2394

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
College of Optoelectronica Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
Interests: optical sensors; signal processing technology

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Guest Editor
School of Opto-Electronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
Interests: fiber sensing technology; fiber grating; micro and nano photonic devices; femtosecond laser micromachining; photonic crystal fiber

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Guest Editor
Department of Electrical Engineering, HKPU (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University), Hong Kong, China
Interests: virtual production; fibre-optics; molecular spectroscopy; optical sensors/devices; acoustic sensor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Optical fiber-based pressure sensors have emerged as a promising technology, ushering in a revolution in the field of pressure measurement. In recent years, these sensors have showcased remarkable accuracy, sensitivity, and versatility. They possess several advantages, including immunity to electromagnetic interference and the capability to function in challenging environments. Nevertheless, there are still some challenges, such as the need for heightened sensitivity, miniaturization, and cost-effectiveness. Researchers are actively tackling these challenges by exploring innovative materials and fabrication techniques. On one front, it is feasible to elevate the performance of Fabry–Perot pressure sensor substrates or pressure-sensitive structures through the exploration of novel materials like crystals, ceramics, and alloy metals. On the other hand, delving into new Fabry–Perot structure fabrication processes, such as Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), laser engraving, 3D printing technology, and others, offers the potential to enhance the stability and uniformity of sensor structures, thereby improving key performance parameters such as accuracy, repeatability, and linearity. In summary, the integration of optical fiber sensors with technologies from other fields is poised to drive groundbreaking advancements in pressure sensing and monitoring systems.

Dr. Peng Zhang
Prof. Dr. Yiping Wang
Prof. Dr. Wei Jin
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • laser-engraved fabry–perot pressure sensors
  • ultra-large range fabry–perot pressure sensors
  • Fabry–Perot manufacturing technology (MEMS, 3D print)
  • ultra-thin fabry–perot pressure sensor manufacturing process
  • ultra-thin fabry–perot pressure sensor signal processing
  • pressure alignment and calibration methods
  • optical fiber-based sensors

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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Research

19 pages, 4591 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Orthotic Treatment for Scoliosis: Development of Body Pressure Mapping Knitwear with Integrated FBG Sensors
by Ka-Po Lee, Zhijun Wang, Lin Zheng, Ruixin Liang, Queenie Fok, Chao Lu, Linyue Lu, Jason Pui-Yin Cheung, Kit-Lun Yick and Joanne Yip
Sensors 2025, 25(5), 1284; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25051284 - 20 Feb 2025
Viewed by 861
Abstract
Bracing is a widely used conservative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients, yet there is no consensus on the optimal amount of force applied. Although a number of different sensors have been developed to continuously monitor the applied pressure and force, they [...] Read more.
Bracing is a widely used conservative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients, yet there is no consensus on the optimal amount of force applied. Although a number of different sensors have been developed to continuously monitor the applied pressure and force, they have several limitations, including inadequate overall force distribution and displacement. They also cause discomfort with limited wearability. In this study, body pressure mapping knitwear (BPMK) integrated with fourteen silicone-embedded fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors is developed to monitor immediate and overall changes in force during the bracing treatment. A wear trial of the BPMK is conducted by using a validated soft AIS mannequin, and prediction equations have been formulated for the FBG sensors at individual locations. The findings indicate that the measured forces are in good agreement with those obtained from clinical studies, with peak forces around the padding regions reaching approximately 2N. This was further validated by using finite element (FE) models. When comparing X-ray images, the estimated differences in Cobb angles were found to be 0.6° for the thoracic region and 2.1° for the lumbar region. This model is expected to provide valuable insights into optimal force application, thus minimizing the risk of injury and enhancing bracing compliance and efficacy. Ultimately, this innovative approach provides clinicians with data-driven insights for safer and more effective bracing applications, thus improving the quality of life of AIS patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Optical Fiber-Based Sensors)
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19 pages, 7591 KiB  
Article
Measurement and Decoupling of Hygrothermal-Mechanical Effects with Optical Fibers: Development of a New Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor
by Pietro Aceti, Lorenzo Calervo, Paolo Bettini and Giuseppe Sala
Sensors 2025, 25(4), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25041037 - 9 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 985
Abstract
Composite materials are increasingly used in the aviation industry for various aircraft components due to their lightweight and mechanical performances. However, these materials are susceptible to degradation due to environmental factors such as hot–wet environments and freeze–thaw cycles, which can compromise their performance [...] Read more.
Composite materials are increasingly used in the aviation industry for various aircraft components due to their lightweight and mechanical performances. However, these materials are susceptible to degradation due to environmental factors such as hot–wet environments and freeze–thaw cycles, which can compromise their performance and safety over time. This study develops an innovative Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor system capable of not only measuring but also decoupling the simultaneous effects of temperature, humidity and strain. Unlike existing FBG systems, our approach integrates a novel theoretical framework and sensor configuration that accurately isolates these parameters in an epoxy resin material. The system incorporates three FBG sensors: one for temperature, one for temperature and humidity and a third one for all three factors. A theoretical framework based on linear strain superposition and constitutive laws was developed to isolate the individual contributions of each factor. Experimental validation in controlled hygrothermal conditions demonstrated the system’s ability to accurately detect and decouple these effects, enabling the monitoring of moisture absorption and composite degradation over time. The proposed system provides a reliable, lightweight and efficient solution for the long-term monitoring of composite structures in extreme conditions. Additionally, it enhances predictive maintenance by improving the accuracy of Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMSs) and provides a method to correct data inconsistencies in already installed sensors, further extending their operational value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Optical Fiber-Based Sensors)
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