Optical measurement methods

Abstract

This and Paper 14 form a pair which should be read in order by readers unfamiliar with recent developments in optical sensing. The first part of the paper introduces the laser as a light source, and a range of light detectors. The technical detail of this first section is of interest, but a full understanding of the physical principles is not necessary for later sections of the paper. This paper deals with some of the ‘traditional’ optical sensing methods using reflection and refraction of light, as well as newer devices using holography and interferometry. The paper ends with the introduction of optical fibres into sensing methods, a subject which is enlarged upon in the next paper. (Eds.)