Instantaneous velocity field measurements: application to shock wave studies

Abstract

A new velocity measurement technique, fitting high strain rate motion of solids as in shock wave experiments, is presented. The surface of the solid is illuminated by a laser beam and its velocity is measured through the Doppler-Fizeau effect; but, instead of measuring the velocity vs time at one point, the velocity field of the whole surface at one instant is measured. Principles of the measurement are described and an experimental application is given.