Optech Secures Funding to Develop Its Expertise in TDM and WDM Interrogators

Optech Secures Funding to Develop Expertise in TDM and WDM Interrogators

In October 2015, Optech, the College Technology Transfer Center (CCTT) in optics and photonics, received funding from the Research and Transfer Assistance Program (PART) of Québec’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education. With this support, Optech is expanding its expertise by enabling the simultaneous interrogation of 250 channels using wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) and time-division multiplexing (TDM) architectures, particularly for the monitoring of hydroelectric alternators.

As part of this project, Optech aims to demonstrate a new interrogation method to validate its performance and economic potential. The first general objective is to strengthen Optech’s expertise in fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors by pursuing and supporting ongoing applied research. This will ultimately help other Québec organizations secure strong positions in their respective fields by fostering potential technology transfers. Secondly, the active involvement of a professor and an intern will ensure benefits for teaching and training in optoelectronics.

Optical fiber sensors are now widely used in several industrial sectors. One of their key advantages lies in their dielectric properties, which make them particularly useful in applications involving high electrical voltages. While some applications are already well served by existing sensors and interrogators, others still require tailored solutions. Previous work has allowed Optech to thoroughly explore this domain and establish the precise specifications needed to make this project a commercial success.

This initiative builds on Optech’s past investments in Bragg grating technology, as well as in the development of expertise in their functionalization and encapsulation, ensuring resilience in harsh industrial environments. Optech has also invested significantly in the development of interrogators and expects this project to consolidate its expertise and maximize the impact of its previous efforts.