NASA has taken a firm step in aerodynamic analysis by incorporating an advanced version of its pressure-sensitive paint. This technology, known as uPSP, allows air pressure variations to be captured with unprecedented speed and resolution, transforming wind-tunnel transforming wind tunnel testing.
Speed, resolution and accuracy in wind tunnels
For decades, aerodynamic measurements relied on sensors attached to tubes running through test models. This technique provided spot readings, but limited spatial resolution. PSP paint came along to change that, completely coating the models and allowing pressure to be visualized over their entire surface. With the unstable variant uPSPunsteady variant, NASA can now study turbulent flows in real time.
Thanks to high-speed cameras and supercomputing, the data collection process is now 10,000 times faster and with images that are 1,000 times sharper. At the Ames Research Center, the combination of wind tunnels and supercomputers is supercomputers has enabled engineers to fine-tune their tests on the same day, dramatically shortening analysis cycles.
One of the key experiments utilized a model of the Space Launch System rocket. The uPSP technology facilitated a detailed comparison between wind tunnel predictions and flight data from the Artemis I mission. This correlation allows models to be validated with greater accuracy and confidence.
Widespread use of pressure-sensitive paint
NASA plans to implement this capability in all of its wind tunnels and provide access to universities, industry and other government agencies. The goal is to consolidate a common platform for the study of aerospace structures under complex flow conditions.
What used to require weeks of post-test analysis can now be resolved in less than half an hour. This agility allows engineers to make quick decisions during testing, optimizing time and resources in the development of new aircraft and spacecraft.
The uPSP paint represents a crucial tool for anticipating structural failures, analyzing unwanted vibrations and improving the overall aerodynamics of future designs. With this breakthrough, NASA reinforces its leadership in aerospace test engineering. aerospace test engineering.
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Source and photo: NASA
