Design of triangular FBG filter for sensor applications using covariance matrix adapted evolution algorithm

The design of triangular fiber Bragg grating (TFBG) filters using covariance matrix adapted evolution strategy (CMAES) algorithm is presented. The TFBG filter can be used as a readout device in FBG-based sensor applications. Two different filter design problems are investigated. The first problem is the design of TFBG filter for a specified bandwidth. The other is maximizing the bandwidth of the TFBG filter for a given grating length and maximum index modulation of the FBG. A more practical asymmetrical triangular FBG filter design is also considered. The results show that for the same grating length and maximum index modulation, a larger bandwidth can be achieved with a chirped grating. The maximized bandwidth design can be used to achieve the maximum possible bandwidth for the specified grating length, maximum index modulation and chirp rate. The results obtained using CMAES algorithm (codes available at http://www.ntu.edu.sg/home/epnsugan) is compared with the results of PSO and other algorithms. Comparisons show that the CMAES algorithm is more consistent in obtaining the best solution with reduced computation time. Hence, the CMAES algorithm is effective for the design of TFBG filters for sensor applications.