A laser-anemometer for use in ship research

Abstract

In experimental ship model research the absence of a technique for taking accurate velocity measurements between propeller and hull on a driven ship has hindered design improvement. In this region a laser Doppler anemometer can provide measurements where conventional means such as pitot probes would fail to function. The present paper introduces a prototype anemometer, designed for ship science work, which will simultaneously measure two orthogonal components of velocity. The instrument combines two frequency shifted reference beam anemometers and utilizes a frequency shifting technique which is simple and inexpensive. Extension of the instrumentation to measure a third orthogonal component of velocity is also discussed. Results of preparatory tests with a model propeller contain time resolved pictures of the axial and radial components of velocity in front of and through the propeller plane. The final design of an instrument under construction for towing tank use is also shown.

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