Unlock Critical Insights with Spectre
Gain access to previously unavailable data with Spectre, PhotonPath’s innovative Integrated Photonics interrogator. Engineered for Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors, Spectre delivers real-time, high-resolution strain and temperature monitoring, empowering performance optimization and safety assurance.
Spectre enables precise temperature measurements up to 800°C with 1°C resolution and strain measurements down to 10 microstrain. Its real-time, high-resolution monitoring capability provides critical insights, supported by a complete connectivity solution featuring a CAN interface, data visualization software, and an API.
Overview
PhotonPath is collaborating with Brembo, the global leader in braking solutions, to develop an integrated photonic interrogator for FBG sensors. This initiative aims to enable precise strain and temperature measurement within Brembo’s cutting-edge technology using silicon photonics.
Project Scope
The project focuses on designing a Proof of Concept (PoC) photonic interrogator with the following capabilities:
✔ Spectral analysis of optical signals reflected by FBG sensors
✔ Simultaneous wavelength measurements across multiple channels and sensors
✔ System configuration and self-diagnostics for optimized performance
✔ Error identification to ensure data reliability
✔ Real-time data transmission to a dedicated read-out unit
Technology & Approach
FBG sensors utilize a Bragg grating within an optical fiber to detect strain and temperature variations. When broadband light passes through the fiber, the FBG reflects a specific wavelength, shifting in response to external changes. This wavelength shift is analysed to extract temperature and strain data.
PhotonPath’s Integrated Interrogator:
To achieve high-precision sensing, PhotonPath is developing an FBG interrogator featuring:
- Silicon photonics-based spectral analysis using proprietary interferometric elements
- Multi-sensor interrogation along a single optical fiber
- Custom read-out unit integration, aligned with Brembo’s specifications (e.g., power supply, digital interface)
Deep Tech Advantages:
Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) Technology
Spectre utilizes FBG sensors, which are:
- Lightweight
- Immune to electromagnetic interference
- Highly sensitive to strain and temperature changes
- Ideal for high-performance applications such as racing and industrial environments
Next Steps & Deployment
PhotonPath will deliver a tailored Integrated Interrogator Prototype, ensuring compatibility with Brembo’s industrial applications. This project represents a strategic step forward in applying advanced photonic sensing to high-performance environments, reinforcing Brembo’s commitment to innovation and precision engineering.
