Photoluminescence built-in-test for optical systems

Details Photoluminescence built-in-test for optical systems Photoluminescence built-in-test for optical systems

1998-03-16

1999-10-12

Allen, Stephone

Radiant energy

Photocells; circuits and apparatus

Optical or pre-photocell system

25022723, 250554, 250226, 356 731, H01J 516, G02B 514

Patent

active

059658770

ABSTRACT:
A built-in-test capability is provided for determining the integrity of an optical fiber connecting: (a) an optical firing unit having a primary light source emitting a first wavelength, a test light source emitting a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, a mechanism both for coupling light from the light sources to the optical fiber and also for coupling the return light to a detector; and (b) an optically-initiated device which is coupled to a second end of the optical fiber. The apparatus includes a photoluminescent material disposed at a junction of the optically-initiated device and the second end of the optical fiber. In test mode, this photoluminescent material is exposed to the test light source, which results in photoluminescence at a third wavelength. The photoluminescent light travels through the optical fiber to the detector, and when detected indicates optical fiber continuity. The present system can also measure the temperature at the distal end of the optical fiber by detecting changes in the peak wavelength or amplitude associated with the third wavelength as a function of temperature. When the system is used to initiate ordnance, the detector can also detect the initial flash of light produced by the ordnance to provide confirmation that the ordnance has ignited.

REFERENCES:
patent: 4223226 (1980-09-01), Quick et al.
patent: 4417140 (1983-11-01), Adolfsson et al.
patent: 4644154 (1987-02-01), Brogardh et al.
patent: 4791293 (1988-12-01), Barriere
patent: 4917014 (1990-04-01), Loughry et al.
patent: 5270537 (1993-12-01), Jacobs
patent: 5359192 (1994-10-01), Williams et al.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Photoluminescence built-in-test for optical systems does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Photoluminescence built-in-test for optical systems, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Photoluminescence built-in-test for optical systems will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-655056