Electronics for Fibre-Powered Sensors – Low-power sensing for hazardous environments
“This capability of powering and
communicating with devices over fibre uses far lower energy levels than common solutions. It opens the way for use in applications where energy levels and energy storage must be minimised.”
Steve Braithwaite, Electronics Team Leader
Powering and communicating with a remote sensor in a hazardous area where no wiring is allowed and energy storage is extremely limited. Suitable for High Voltage, ATEX environment applications.
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Enquiring about: Electronics for Fibre-Powered Sensors – Low-power sensing for hazardous environments
The Challenges:
No wiring to the sensor. No wireless path is possible due to power limits and shielding
Minimal energy storage, no batteries to be used in the design
Required data communications in both directions
Single optical fibre is required for power and communications
To be designed with small size sensor electronics (approx.4cc)
Lifespan of 30 years and an operational temperature range between -50°C to +85°C
The Solution
Due to the operating environment, fibre-based LED light was used for powering transmission and communication
Careful selection of processor and scheduling of start-up sequence to meet customer requirements
Optimisation of wavelengths for power scavenging efficiency to maximise data transfer rates
Adaptive data transmission with the level of energy stored
The Outcome
Prototype demonstrated to the customer
Production concept proposed
Capability for design concept to be applied to other applications, including high voltage explosive environments
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