All-optical differential current detection technique for unit protection applications

In this paper we demonstrate a novel, all-optical differential current protection scheme. By monitoring the optical power reflected from two matched hybrid fiber Bragg grating current sensors and using a simple optoelectronic threshold detector, an immediate response to an increase in differential current is achieved. A preliminary laboratory embodiment is constructed in order to characterize the performance of the scheme. The proposed technique does not require a complex sensor interrogation scheme, usually characterized by a limited sampling frequency, and thus will be capable of facilitating inexpensive and fast-acting differential protection over long distances.