3D Shape Sensing of Elongated Objects Using Fibre Bragg Gratings

Abstract

Navigating in GPS deprived areas can be a challenging task, especially when the environment doesn’t offer sufficient visual clues for stereo camera matching. This paper describes the development of a 3D shape sensor based on optical fibres and the resulting “Sensor Wand”. The intension was to develop a Wand that could be easily deployed in small holes like drill holes for mining or geo-technical applications and determine their 3D shape, which is a vital information for Drill and Blast Engineers in mining, or a geo-technical assessment in civil applications. Initially the expected response of the Wand was modelled for a number of configurations. A Wand was then manufactured to verify the simulated results. The mechanical manufacturing proved itself to be significantly more complex than originally anticipated. As a result, the sensor accuracy was below expectation. Improvements to the manufacturing process were identified to increase the performance of the next generation of the Sensor Wand.