A strain sensor using twisted optical fibers

A sensor using twisted optical fibers to detect the strain distribution along the length of an object is discussed. This sensor is based on the optical loss due to fiber curvature. The distributed strain along the sensor axis is converted into distributed optical loss. The relation between the strain and optical loss is theoretically derived and experimentally confirmed for uniform tensile strain. The dependence of the sensor characteristics on sensor structure and fiber parameter are also shown. Measurement of the strain applied to fibers in an optical cable is also discussed.>