Project Title:

Miniature Laser Velocimeter

92-1-02.08-6100                                                   NAS01-19887
Miniature Laser Velocimeter
Deacon Research
2440 Embarcadero Way
Palo Alto, CA  94303
Pajo Vujkovic Cvijin                                 (415-493-6100)

Abstract:

     This project will build a laser-Doppler velocimeter with
sufficient accuracy and resolution to allow boundary-layer
measurement. The objective will be to design, build, and test a
first-of-its-kind velocimeter based on frequency stabilized diode
lasers and monostatic heterodyne technology. The instrument will
surpass the performance of other laser-Doppler velocimetry (LDV)
techniques and have important advantages over its competition
related to its size, cost, lifetime, and ruggedness. The design
presented here is optimized for boundary-layer flow measurement in
wind tunnels. Phase I will set up the first model of the system
and measure the critical problem of flare and other operational
parameters related to wind tunnel application. Phase II will
engineer and construct a prototype system, install it on the 16-
foot wind tunnel at NASA Langley Research Center, and demonstrate
its performance.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  The immediate application of
the instrument will be for boundary-layer flow measurement in wind
tunnels, fulfilling a critical need in aerodynamic measurement by
optical means. Commercial application for this low-cost technology
includes other areas of wind tunnel testing, air data measurement
in aircraft, and production control for sheet material.

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