New space domain processing technique for pulsed laser velocimetry

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Abstract
Current pulsed laser velocimetry data processing techniques offer high precision (1%) velocity estimates, but can require several hours of processing time on specialized array processors. Under some circumstances, a simple, fast, less accurate (~5%), data reduction technique, which also gives unambiguous velocity vector information is acceptable. In this work, we examine a direct space domain processing technique. The direct space domain processing technique was found to be far superior to any other techniques known, in achieving the objectives listed above. It employs a new data coding and reduction technique, where the particle time history information is used directly. Further, it has no 180° directional ambiguity. A complex convection vortex flow was recorded and completely processed in under 2 min on an 80386 based PC, producing a 2-D map of the flow field containing over 300 velocity vectors.