Laser velocimetry for turbofan inlet distortion applications

The purpose of this paper is to assess state-of-the-art techniques for quantifying flow distortion in the inlets of turbofan engines, particularly with respect to the prospects for future flight applications.

To adequately characterize the flow fields of complex aircraft inlet distortions, the author has incorporated laser velocimetry techniques, namely, stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (PIV) and Doppler velocimetry based on filtered Rayleigh scattering (FRS), into inlet distortion studies.

Overall, the results and experience indicate that the pathway for integration of FRS technologies into flight systems is clearer and more robust than that of PIV.

While always a concern, the topic of inlet distortion has grown in importance as contemporary airframe designers seek extremely compact and highly integrated inlets. This research offers a means for gaining new understanding of the in situ aerodynamic phenomena involved with complex inlet distortion.

This paper presents unique applications of turbofan inlet velocimetry methods while providing an original assessment of technological challenges involved with progressing advanced velocimetry techniques for flight measurements.