Abstract
In this paper, we present a directional bend sensor based on a long period
grating (LPG) formed by introducing periodic grooves along one side of a
photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with a focused ${\hbox {CO}}_{2}$ laser beam. A bend sensitivity of 2.26 nm/m$^{-1}$ within a range of $-$5 $\sim +$5 m$^{-1}$ is experimentally demonstrated. Numerical simulation suggests
that the directional response is the result of asymmetric cladding geometry
resulted from collapse and/or deformation of air holes and asymmetric
material-index modulation caused by one-sided illumination of the ${\hbox {CO}}_{2}$ laser beam. The sensitivity could be further enhanced by
increasing the area of the air-silica photonic crystal cladding and
optimizing the size of individual air holes. The easy fabrication process
and good linear response of the proposed sensor make it a suitable candidate
for structural shape sensing in harsh environments.
© 2009 IEEE
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