Utilizing High-Speed 3D DIC for Displacement and Strain Measurement of Rotating Components

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Experimental Mechanics

Background:

• Traditional strain gauges have limitations for measuring rotating components, including physical interference and restricted measurement points.
• Accurate strain and displacement measurement is crucial for understanding the performance and integrity of rotating structures like propellers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of 3D Digital Image Correlation (DIC) for measuring displacement and strain on a propeller during angular motion.
• To compare 3D DIC strain measurements with traditional strain gauge data for rotating components.
• To address the underexplored area of strain measurement in rotating structures.

Main Methods:

• Utilized non-contact 3D DIC technology with high-speed cameras to capture surface displacements and deformations.
• Conducted experiments on model aircraft propellers undergoing partial angular motion on a custom test stand.
• Compared 3D DIC strain measurements with strain gauge data for accuracy and reliability assessment.

Main Results:

• 3D DIC achieved precise displacement measurements with a noise level of ±10 μm.
• Strain measurements using 3D DIC exhibited noise ranging from 26 to 174 µm/m, indicating limitations.
• Strain gauge data was used for verification and calibration of the DIC measurement procedure.

Conclusions:

• 3D DIC shows significant potential for monitoring rotating components, particularly for displacement.
• Strain measurement accuracy with 3D DIC on rotating parts requires further investigation and potential refinement.
• This research highlights the importance of non-contact methods for analyzing complex dynamic behaviors in engineering components.