Efficient distributed sensor fiber

Abstract

A method and apparatus for improving the sensing of a physical parameter using a distributed optical waveguide and scattering. The optical waveguides have improved scattering efficiency and/or improved light capturing capability provided by multi-cladding layers and a tightly confining core waveguide. The core can be highly doped with a material such as germanium to improve scattering. The cladding layers provide a multi-mode waveguide for capturing scattered light. Such optical waveguides are useful in systems that rely on Rayleigh, Raman and Brillouin scattering.

1 . A distributed optical waveguide sensor apparatus, comprising: 
 an optical waveguide having a core and a cladding;    a light source for injecting light into said core, wherein said cladding captures and guides light scattered from said core;    a receiver for converting guided, scattered light from said waveguide into electrical signals; and    an analyzer for determining a physical parameter of interest from said electrical signals.