Keith H Wanser

Title: Innovations of Keith H. Wanser in Fiber Optic Technology

Introduction

Keith H. Wanser is a notable inventor based in Mission Viejo, California, recognized for his contributions to fiber optic technology. He holds a total of seven patents, showcasing his innovative approach to sensing and diagnostic methods using multimode fiber Bragg gratings. His work has significantly advanced the field of optical sensing.

Latest Patents

Wanser's latest patents include groundbreaking developments in fiber devices and sensors based on multimode fiber Bragg gratings. These patents describe new sensing and diagnostic methods that utilize multimode fiber Bragg gratings (MMFBG) for sensor addressing and multiplexing. His work discusses real-time structural strain and vibration monitoring using optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR). Additionally, he presents the first all-mode wave optics calculations of the reflectivity of Bragg gratings in highly multimode optical fibers. This includes examining the effects of individual mode power changes due to microbending transducer loss upstream from the grating. Wanser identifies two categories of multimode fiber gratings: independent mode and mode coupling, detailing the fabrication differences between these types. He also explores the reflectivity properties of independent mode multimode fiber gratings, comparing them to single mode fiber gratings. His findings indicate that multimode fiber gratings offer enhanced flexibility in design and performance characteristics compared to single mode fiber gratings.

Another significant patent involves a new class of fiber optic sensors based on nonlinear buckling of fibers and optical bend loss. These sensors provide intrinsic, all-fiber displacement measurements with a sensing range from less than 1 micrometer to several millimeters. This range is particularly useful for various structural monitoring applications, as well as actuator and lever arm sensing applications. The sensors demonstrate low temperature dependence and can be configured for a variety of novel applications, utilizing single-mode, few-mode, or highly multimode fibers, including plastic optical fiber (POF).

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Wanser has worked with prominent companies, including McDonnell Douglas Corporation. His experience in the industry has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas in fiber optics.

Collaborations

Wanser has collaborated with notable individuals in the field, including Eric Udd and Karl Friedrich Voss. Their collective expertise has contributed to advancements in fiber optic technology.

Conclusion

Keith H. Wanser's