A laser based distortion measuring system
Abstract
A recording system based on a low power laser and electrooptic detector was developed for use in measuring distortions in structures. The system provides an efficient means of measuring and recording deviations from straightness or flatness of structures at 2 cm intervals in lengths of up to 2 m, with an accuracy of 0.5 mm under suitable lighting conditions. Larger structures may be surveyed by measuring individual sections up to 2 m long and using the manual method to define the positions of the corners of these sections and permit the overall shape to be defined. Magnetic tape cartridges produced by the data logger can be read into a minicomputer to provide a graphic representation of the distortions present and to provide input data for structural analysis programs. The system may also be used for recording indentation damage such as in oil rig legs or submarine models and could be used over short arc lengths to provide data for determining deviations from round.
- Publication:
-
NASA STI/Recon Technical Report N
- Pub Date:
- August 1982
- Bibcode:
- 1982STIN...8328428B
- Keywords:
-
- Data Recording;
- Deformation;
- Deformeters;
- Laser Applications;
- Optical Measuring Instruments;
- Structural Strain;
- Accuracy;
- Magnetic Recording;
- Structural Analysis;
- Surface Distortion;
- Lasers and Masers