Fiber optic sensors for wearable applications

This paper focuses on studying different fiber optic sensors and their suitability for wearable applications. The properties of fiber optic sensors are compared against the requirements of wearability. The properties of optical fibers and textile fibers are also compared and integration methods reviewed. The aim of the work is to define which fiber optic sensors could be used in wearable applications and in clothing and which not, at the moment and in the future. It is found out that mechanical properties of the fibers are the most significant from the integration point of view, and optical fibers are compatible with the textile fibers with certain restrictions. Four out of 16 different fiber optic sensors are evaluated to become suitable for wearable applications at the moment, while few sensors have potential to become suitable for wearable applications in the future. Two of the suitable sensors were further tested by creating alternative structures and testing their behavior. One structure was then chosen, for an example wearable application design. This evaluation and demonstration creates a good foundation for further research in the field of wearable fiber optics.