Multiplexação por divisão do espaço través de redes em fibra ótica de múltiplos núcleos para a próxima geração de redes óticas e sensores inteligentes para reabilitação do membro superior

OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED RESULTS On what concerns the telecom objectives, the plan encompasses the development of novel components such as core/wavelength selective MCF switches and combiners based on tunable long-period gratings (LPGs) through the helical refractive index modulation of the MCF through UV laser irradiation; periodically etched LPGs and helical twist of heat resistive wires over the MCF. These objectives will pave the way for the development of the next generation high-capacity optical communications systems, allowing to tackle the urgent data transmission capacity needs associated with the increased use of high bandwidth applications. This will also allow the reduction of power consumption and allow to minimize the cost of deployment and operation. Regarding sensor applications, it is proposed the creation of flexible smart shape sensors using FBGs written in MCFs. This will allow its use in upper limb rehabilitation programs, namely for the identification of the degree of movement performed by all the joints that form the upper limb, allowing not only to track the motion but also to evaluate its function capabilities, such as the hand prehension function, so important in our everyday lives. This will provide a tool for occupational therapists who will promptly identify the disability, helping them to recognise the correct training programme and promoting easier and faster patient recoveries. MAIN OBJECTIVES: 1. TELECOM APPLICATIONS AIM 1: Wavelength and power tunable couplers: - Helically twist a thin, heat-resistive wire (e.g., nichrome) around the MCF with a short helical period; - Optimize the coupling strength through different current settings on the wire; - Develop tunable selective wavelength couplers or filters through the elongation of the helical period. AIM 2: Helical refractive index modulation through UV radiation: - Develop novel combiners based on MCF twisting techniques through UV laser exposure; - Utilize MCFs to enable simultaneous signal transmission and merging; AIM 3: Periodically etched MCFs as selective wavelength couplers and amplifiers: - Design and fabricate LPG based on the periodical etching of an MCF; - Optimize the coupling of a single pump from one core to all the others in the MCF, through adjustment twist length and waveguide separation; - Distribute a single pump source to all the spatial cores; AIM 4: Component evaluation performance in real MCF transmission scenario: - Integrate the developed components in MCF -ROADM architectures and MCF optical amplifiers; - Evaluate the impact in terms of power efficiency, cost, and energy consumption. 2. SENSOR APPLICATIONS Aim 5. Develop Fiber Optic Shape Sensor: - Write FBGs at specific OF locations of an MCF for intricate spatial shape sensing; - Evaluate the FBGs to capture real-time shape information with high precision. Aim 6: Develop a highly elastic flexible glove: - Use 3D printing to develop flexible skins, and glove containing hollow channels; - Integrate the OF inside the hollow channels of the 3D printed glove. Aim 7: Clinic validation of the prototypes: - Evaluate the multidegree motion of the arm and fingers. Assess the grabbing force through the measure of the pressure at the finger contact points; - Evaluate the performance of the sensing devices in persons with and without upper arm disabilities.