An algorithm to optimize the optical sensor design for tip clearance and tip timing measurements

In this work, an algorithm for the optimization of the design of an optical fiber bundle displacement sensor for Tip Clearance and Tip Timing measurements is presented. The former is based on the gaussian beam mathematical approach, and implements a fiber arrangement comprised of a transmitting single-mode fiber and two concentric rings of receiving multimode fibers. The software includes a graphical user interface that allows modifying relevant geometrical parameters of the sensor and fiber characteristics, and enables monitoring in real time the effects of such modifications. Results indicate that in order to achieve the most sensitive design with the largest operating range, the key parameters are the gain configuration, the distance between the receiving fiber rings and the radii of receiving fibers, and that the best fitting sensor configuration is a tradeoff among the aforementioned characteristics as it is heavily dependent on the measurement constraints. The results obtained by the simulation tool were validated in good agreement with the calibration curve of the manufactured optical fiber bundle displacement sensor in a scaled rotor.