Flexible protection architectures using distributed optical sensors

In this paper we describe recent developments in flexible protection schemes that make use of passive fibre Bragg grating (FBG) based transducers for the distributed measurement of voltage and current. The technology underpinning the passive optical approach is described in detail, and both the present development and the future potential of the approach are discussed. In co-operation with Toshiba, the integration of the technique with an existing busbar protection relay is demonstrated, illustrating the flexibility offered by protection schemes that are based on the use of small, passive, multiplexable, dielectric transducers.