Abstract
Measurement of two-dimensional bending in a structural element using intrinsic optical fibre strain gauges would normally require three sensors to be attached to, or embedded within, the structure. The same measurement can now be made using a single multi-core optical fibre, reducing deployment cost and increasing practicality.
Fabrication of a novel three-core photonic crystal fibre is described. The ability of the fibre sensor to measure bend in two dimensions is demonstrated in the laboratory using interferometric interrogation at a single wavelength. Deployment of the sensor to measure the deformation of a bridge undergoing loading trials is described.
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