3D Laser Scanning for Evaluating Dynamic Test Setup and Deformations of Air, Land and Sea Vehicles to Improve Warfighter Protection and Reduce Injuries in Combat Threat Losses and Mishaps
Abstract
Laser scanning technology is becoming an extremely powerful tool to combineexperimental testing with computational analysis and simulation. The FARO Laser Scanner works by sending an infrared laser beam into the center of a rotating mirror. The mirror deflects the laser beam on a vertical rotation around the environment being scanned; scattered light from surrounding objects is then reflected back into the scanner. To measure the distance, FARO Laser Scanner uses phase shift technology, where constant waves of infrared light of varying length are projected outward from the scanner. Upon contact with an object, the light is reflected back to the scanner [5]. While most of the laser scanners are relatively high-speed, one of the main drawbacks is that the scanner, mounted on a tripod, needs to be moved to various locations in order to capture the area of interest from different angles. Depending of the size of the area of interest or test article and the accuracy required, this process can take up to six to eight hours. NIAR is working with FARO to integrate a customized suite of four automated laser scanners that would be able to produce exceedingly detailed three-dimensional images of complex environments and geometriesin only a few minutes. This increased efficiency of imaging with multiple scanners is critical during experimental testing and allows this technology to be utilized on a more frequent basis, while it is typically only used on high-value tests currently. The three-dimensional scans would be conducted prior to the test, potentially multiple times (test article, test article with ATDs, andtest article with ATDs and seat deformation applied), and then would be conducted after the test in the same configurations. These scans would be used not only to determine permanent deformations of the test article and comparison to computational analysis simulations, but can provide a digital record of the test article and results eliminating the need for long-term storage of the actual test article. The scans can also be used with virtual reality visualization and will aid inevaluating airframe design and permanent deformations for structural integrity and occupant survivable volume and egress. The acquisition of this equipment will provide better quality experimental data, computational models, and digital permanent records of test articles to support Naval and DoD aircraft and rotorcraft testing. This equipment can also be used for inspection andvisualization of test articles by off-site personnel. The acquisition of this equipment would benefit WSU and NIAR university students to be trained and gain hands on experience in threedimensional modeling, virtual engineering and computational analysis, and finally, component level and full-scale dynamic testing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 31, 2020
- Source ID
- N000142012819
Entities
People
- Gerardo Olivares
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- Wichita State University