Potential Designs for Miniature Distributed Optical Fiber Smart Sensors Systems for Use in Aerospace Flight Vehicles

This article explores the feasibility of miniaturizing and packaging fiber Bragg grating (FBG)-based distributed optical fiber smart sensors (DOFSS) for future flight trials. It highlights the importance of real-time, high-speed sensing in aerospace, particularly for hypersonic vehicles, and the challenges of conventional system integration. The advantages of FBG technology for structural health monitoring, temperature, and pressure sensing are examined. Potential systems, including light sources, spectral detection, and processing units, are discussed, along with challenges such as temperature fluctuations and vibrations. Innovations in photonic devices, fabrication, and packaging are emphasized, focusing on developing compact and robust FBG interrogation systems. The article proposes designs for integrated photonic circuits in FBG interrogation systems. The trade-offs between miniaturization and performance, considering sensitivity, resolution, and durability are also assessed. Finally, future research directions are outlined to enhance the sensitivity, resolution, and robustness of FBG interrogators while enabling miniaturization and multifunctionality. The article concludes by summarizing the potential for miniaturizing and packaging FBG-based DOFSS for aerospace flight trials.