The dynamical behavior of a single-mode optical fiber strain gage

A comparison is reported between the dynamical response of a single-mode fiber optic and resistive strain gages in the frequency range 25-250 Hz. The integral phase change of the laser light propagation into the vibrating fiber optic is evaluated. A mechanical system was designed to exactly delimitate the part of the optical fiber which is subjected to vibration. The frequency spectrum of the phase change signal and the resistive strain gage signal show equivalent behavior. This result is in good agreement with the theoretically expected values and confirms the validity of the analysis performed.