Noncontacting Full-Field Real-Time Strain Measurement System for Air Platforms in Combined Extreme Environments

ABSTRACT:The overall objective of this effort is to develop a non-contacting, full-field, strain measurement system that can provide real-time or quasi-real-time strain data for structures at temperatures in excess of 1,800 degrees F, simultaneously subjected to high levels of broadband acoustic loading (165 dB, 0 to 1000Hz) for use in hypersonic vehicle structural testing. The goals of this Phase I are: 1) Demonstrate & document a technique for accelerating the delivery of non-contacting full-field 2-D strain measurements; 2) develop a sound technical approach to overcome shortfalls of the system for use at elevated temperatures (greater than 1,800 degrees F); and 3) develop experiments and demonstrate this technology for low image resolutions, showing the scale-up expected at higher resolutions. The future Phase II goal is to develop, demonstrate, and deliver a prototype accelerated information delivery non-contacting, 3-D, full-field strain system that can operate within the combined thermal static/dynamic loading conditions characteristic of a hypersonic flight environment. This prototype would be suitable for use on component-level tests on high-temperature metallic and nonmetallic aerospace structures. BENEFIT:Military Application: This technology would be used in the testing of current and future hypersonic vehicle components and structural sub-assemblies. Commercial Application: This technology is applicable to the validation of manned and unmanned commercial space vehicles and engine components.