Fiber Sensing, also known as ‘distributed sensing’, is a technology that enables continuous measurements of seismic waves in real time over the entire length of a fiber optic cable. Let’s take a look at its applications together.
Not only zero internet latency and high bandwidth: fiber optics has applications that most people are unaware of. Have you ever heard of Fiber Sensing or Distributed Sensing? FTTH is not only capable of transmitting information at the speed of light, but also of constantly monitoring the state of the network and the surrounding environment.
Let’s discover what it’s all about:
How Fiber Sensing works
Anyone familiar with the world of fiber optics is well aware that, in addition to being a powerful means of telecommunication, it can also be used to create sensors and meters.
The precision and speed of fiber optic transmission allows us to take continuous measurements in real time over the entire length of a fiber optic cable simply by monitoring any disturbances – so minimal that they would escape human perception – in the transmission of light pulses. By combining this feature with the support of advanced algorithms, optical fiber is transformed into a monitoring tool during highly impactful events, such as earthquakes or energy losses, through to problems on transport lines. Our latest project is the result of the possibilities offered by Fiber Sensing: Meglio.
Meglio, the system for monitoring earthquakes in Italy
Meglio is an experimental project resulting from the collaboration between Open Fiber, INGV, INRiM, Bain & Company and Metallurgica Bresciana SpA.
Our goal is to use Fiber Sensing to create an earthquake detection system using artificial intelligence and machine learning. With its unique landscapes and extremely high biodiversity, Italy is a wonderful country, however its high level of seismic activity, especially in mountainous areas, has always been an enemy to be reckoned with and has rewritten history on several occasions.
With Meglio, we at Open Fiber are providing our fiber optic network to measure and monitor seismic movements.
The task of collecting measurements will be entrusted to a pair of ultra-stable lasers installed on underground fiber optic segments. Once collected, the data will gradually be sent to a processing system tasked with synthesising it so that it can be easily used. This makes it possible to keep track of seismic activity in a specific area, ensuring accurate and timely monitoring.
Listening to seismic waves with fiber optic sensors
Optical fiber, thanks to its fundamental characteristics, is the ideal complement for such a project.
First, its transmission speed guarantees real-time monitoring of the slightest movements in the area with extreme precision.
Secondly, Open Fiber’s infrastructure will allow data to be collected domestically, making it a unique sensor. Moreover, installation of FTTH fiber is steadily progressing and the project to cover more than 7,000 municipalities is ongoing.
Finally, optical fibres are not subject to electromagnetic interference and are not affected by changes in temperature or pressure, a feature that always guarantees maximum precision in data and information retrieval.
