Design of a two-point Focused Laser Differential Interferometry System for the Missouri S&T SupersonicWind Tunnel

Joseph Villarreal, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Davide Vigano, Missouri University of Science and Technology

Advisor: Davide Vigano

Abstract:

This research project focuses on the design, construction, and testing of a two-point Focused Laser Differential Interferometry (2-FLDI) system for integration into the Missouri S&T supersonic wind tunnel. FLDI is a non-intrusive, laser-based technique for measuring high-frequency density gradients in compressible flows. In a 2-FLDI setup, the input beam is further split into two pairs, each detected by a dedicated photodetector. By tracking coherent structures with similar density gradients between these pairs, velocity measurements can be obtained based on the known inter-beam distances. This work includes the system’s design, assembly, and validation within the wind tunnel environment. The successful implementation of 2-FLDI will enhance the facility’s diagnostic capabilities, enabling more precise characterization of supersonic flow structures.