Droplet velocity dispersion device

A method for assessing the uniformity that can be achieved in a droplet stream injected into a high vacuum is described, along with an experimental device for simulating the space environment and the results of early tests with it. The concept of a Liquid Drop Radiator is under study for transporting consumables between spacecraft without physical contact and for space structure construction. It is necessary to eliminate the occurrence of velocity and angular dispersions in the droplet streams to maintain system efficiency. A test apparatus, the droplet velocity dispersion (DVD) device which can emit droplets traveling up to 400 m/sec, is described. Velocity is tracked by photomultiplier signals as droplet shadows fall on the sensors. Numerical techniques are presented for determining the SNR of the system and the absolute velocity of a droplet. Waveforms derived for DC704 and butyl phthalate oil droplets are provided.