Multipurpose Interferometric Interrogator for Optical Sensing

• Grant number: 23/05449-8
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: September 01, 2023
• End date: May 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Electrical, Magnetic and Electronic Measurements, Instrumentation
• Principal Investigator: Leandro Matiolli Machado
• Grantee: Leandro Matiolli Machado
• Company: MKFotônica Ltda
• CNAE: Fabricação de equipamentos e aparelhos elétricos não especificados anteriormente
• Pesquisadores principais: Bernardo de Barros Correia Kyotoku
• Associated scholarship(s): 23/15331-4 - "Feasibility study and definition of requirements for the use of an optical sensor to measure partial discharges", BP.TT; 23/11680-4 - Multipurpose interferometric interrogator for optical sensing, BP.PIPE

Abstract

The PIPE FAPESP project aims to analyze the feasibility of developing a multipurpose interferometric optical interrogator for precision sensing. The initial application will be to monitor the position and frequency of partial discharge occurrences (DPs) within power transformers using an acousto-optic sensor. The proposed optical circuit architecture will allow for use in different high-value applications, and a feasibility study for the use of integrated photonics to compact the circuit could increase the technological value of the solution and reduce production costs at higher volumes. The methodology of the PIPE FAPESP project includes defining requirements, simulating the optical circuits of the interrogator and sensor, assembling test structures in optical fiber for technical validation, comparing with simulations, defining the electronic circuit, architecture, and computational requirements. In addition, market research will be conducted with an in-depth focus on the business plan and model for a specific application. The project aims to reach the end of phase 1 with a well-founded business plan and requirements for the development of an optical interrogator manufactured in discrete circuit or integrated photonics that can be used in different applications, initially for measuring partial discharges in power transformers with a TRL 6. (AU)