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Force-controlled winding of polarisation-sensitive fibres

How precise force control during winding turns a glass fibre into a highly sensitive measurement system, for winding lengths of up to 3000 m.

Photonics & Laser Sensors & Metrology

Force-controlled winding of polarisation-sensitive fibres

Photonics & Laser Sensors & Metrology

01Starting point

Highly sensitive optical seismographs are used in geology and in the oil and gas industry to determine the composition and layering of rock and to measure the finest ground movements. Their accuracy depends directly on the winding length and winding quality of the polarisation-sensitive glass fibre, at lengths of 2000 to 3000 m. The sticking point: the tensile force of the fibre has to be monitored and controlled continuously throughout the entire winding process. Until now this was largely manual work without precise force control, with corresponding variations in quality.

02Approach

With a winding module that, thanks to precise, reproducible force control, applies the fibre to the winding body practically tension-free. The fibre runs over a force-controlled roller system that continuously captures the tensile force and readjusts it throughout the process. It runs at 0.5 m/s, so a complete 3000 m winding is finished in under two hours.

03Result

Tension-free winding means a large gain in winding quality. And with a winding length of up to 3000 m, measurement systems can be built that deliver more precise and more reliable readings on the location of energy deposits. Against the previous manual work without force control, that is a clear step up.

What is inside

A complete, modular winding module with a force-controlled roller system, designed for winding lengths of 2000 to 3000 m at 0.5 m/s. Multiple cassettes ensure an uninterrupted winding process over the entire length.

What happened next

The force-controlled winding module replaced the previous manual process and has since formed the basis for manufacturing the fibre coils at a consistently high, reproducible quality.

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