Abstract
Singlemode-multimode-singlemode fiber structures (SMS) based on distinct sections of a pure silica multimode fiber (coreless-MMF) with diameters of 125 and 55 mu m, were reported for the measurement of curvature and temperature. The sensing concept relies on the multimode interference that occurs in the coreless-MMF section and, in accordance with the length of the MMF section used, two fiber devices were developed: one based on a bandpass filter (self-image effect) and the other on a band-rejection filter. Maximum sensitivities of 64.7 nm.m and 13.08 pm/degrees C could be attained, for curvature and temperature, respectively, using the band-rejection filter with 55 mu m-MMF diameter. A proof of concept was also explored for the simultaneous measurement of curvature and temperature by means of the matrix method.

Abstract
Theoretical and experimental results of three different high-birefringent fiber loop mirrors with output ports are analyzed. For theoretical model, the Jones matrix analysis is used. The theoretical studies present similar results for all experimental configurations. The last configuration is tested as an interrogation system where the spectral response arises from the combination of the reference signal modulated by the sensor signal. The configuration is characterized in strain with the phase changes recovered from two quadrature phase signals, providing a sensitivity of 16 mrad/mu epsilon with a resolution of 1.9 mu epsilon.

Abstract
A reflective multimode interference based-fiber optic sensor is described, aimed at measuring refractive index variations by means of intensity variation based on the fiber tip-interaction concept. The sensing head is a section of a multimode fiber, spliced to a single-mode fiber at the input end; its characteristics are studied when two multimode fibers, with distinct core diameters (viz. 50 and 105 mu m), are considered. The multimode fiber end face is placed in contact with the liquid sample, so as to provide a refractive index measurement via variation in amplitude of the interference spectral peaks - which is essentially insensitive to temperature changes. Therefore, the proposed configuration permits measurement of refractive index variations free from system temperature cross-sensitivity effects. Resolutions of 2.2 x 10(-4) RIU and 3.8 x 10(-4) RIU, for multimode fiber tips with core diameters of 50 mu m and 105 mu m, respectively, could be achieved.

Abstract
In this work, two all-fiber interferometric configurations based on suspended core fibers (SCF) are investigated. A Fabry-Perot cavity (FPC) made of SCF spliced in-between segments of single-mode and hollow-core fiber is proposed. The interferometric signals are generated by the refractive-index mismatches between the two fibers in the splice region and at the end of the suspended-core fiber. An alternative sensing head configuration formed by the insertion of a length of SCF as a birefringence element in a Sagnac loop interferometer is also demonstrated. In this structure, the interferometric signals are generated by interfering two counter propagating beams with different polarization states which propagate through a length of SCF as a birefringence element. The sensitivity to pressure and temperature was determined for both configurations. The results show that the pressure sensitivities are -4.68 x 10(-5) nm/psi and 0.032 nm/psi for FPC and Sagnac loop interferometers, respectively. The temperature sensitivity of both structures has been obtained and the results have been discussed.

Abstract
Fiber optic sensors have a set of properties that make them very attractive in biomechanics. However, they remain unknown to many who work in the field. Some possible causes are scarce information, few research groups using them in a routine basis, and even fewer companies offering turnkey and affordable solutions. Nevertheless, as optical fibers revolutionize the way of carrying data in telecommunications, a similar trend is detectable in the world of sensing. The present review aims to describe the most relevant contributions of fiber sensing in biomechanics since their introduction, from 1960s to the present, focusing on intensity-based configurations. An effort has been made to identify key researchers, research and development (R&D) groups and main applications. © The Author(s) 2012.

Abstract
A simple nanostrain direct current (DC) measurement system based on a chirped Bragg grating Fabry-Perot (FP) structure is presented. The FP cavity, formed between the chirped fiber Bragg grating (CFBG) and the fiber end face, presents an aperiodic behavior due to the CFBG. A laser located in the fringe pattern slope is used to interrogate the sensing head. The optical power parameter is analyzed when strain is applied, for long and short period fringe pattern wavelengths, and sensitivities of -2.87 µW/µe and -5.48'µW/µe are respectively obtained. This configuration presents a resolution of 70 ne. © The Author(s) 2011.