IntelliFIBER™: fiber optic fence sensor developments

Many different detection technologies have been employed for perimeter detection to sensitize a barrier, including for example, strain-sensing taut wire sensors, electric fences, electrostatic sensors, and various linear "microphonic" cable-sensing devices. These outdoor perimeter fence detection sensors must reliably detect intruders attempting to cut or climb the barrier, while ignoring the effects of environmental noise including nearby activity. In a recent conference proceedings, the new IntelliFIBER fiber optic based product was introduced and compared with previous technologies. We outline the advancements in the IntelliFIBER development since introduction, as well as, the field test results obtained from sensor testing each of the different options. Some of the new IntelliFIBER advancements are in the sensing cable options. These include, for example, a hybrid cable version with both embedded power conductors and additional fibers. This feature provides a highly robust cable, one that does not require a conduit for all-weather detection, while providing an economic advantage for multiple zone perimeter applications. With this option, both the power system and data communications are secured, and the expense of adding separate perimeter power and data networks is removed. This advancement provides for further applications beyond the typical perimeter one, such as, securing data or power networks from intrusion. Field test results, from our own outdoor field test S.I.T.E., are presented for the different cable options, and also compare IntelliFIBER with its triboelectric-based counterpart, Intelli-FLEX. The long-term monitoring data includes the actual performance, in terms of probability of detection, false and nuisance alarm rates. Vulnerability to defeat is also discussed.