Wavefront integrating fiber sensors for ultrasonic detection

The response of an integrating optical fiber (OF) ultrasound detector to varying sensor length and orientation with respect to the acoustic source has been experimentally investigated using Lamb waves, analyzed theoretically, and simulated in the Matlab environment. The experimental results and the theoretical models show very similar trends in both sensitivity and directivity. These properties have immense potential as a new tool in damage detection systems. Finally, we briefly discuss the prospects for the use of these sensor systems, possibly combined with other fiber optic techniques, as the basis for realizing integrated structural health monitoring systems.