Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A system for measuring a parameter, such as temperature, includes a sensor of that parameter, such as a luminescent material based sensor at an end of an optical fiber, and an electro-optic module connected to the sensor, such as through the optical fiber, in order to measure changes in some sensor characteristic, such as luminescence decay time, that is related to the parameter to which the sensor is being subjected. The sensor is designed to have a relationship of such a characteristic to the parameter being measured that is matched to the ability of the module to measure the characteristic. In a temperature measurement system example, a luminescent material is chosen with decay time vs. temperature characteristics of the luminescent material matching variations of the electro-optic module decay time measurements that result from differences between various units, such as caused by variations among optical or electronic components used in the units, or variations resulting from different operating environments, such as variations in the temperature of the environment in which a given module is positioned. Proper matching of the luminescent material and module characteristics allows precision requirements heretofore imposed upon the electro-optical modules to be relaxed, and thus for substantial cost savings to be realized.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim