Laser Vibrometry

Non-Contact Vibration Measurement

Precision Vibration Analysis

Laser Doppler vibrometry uses light to measure vibrations over an surface in 3D-space. This approach captures a detailed image of the sound waves in an object, unlocking a suite of powerful analytical techniques.

Full Matrix offers simple vibration measurement services, as well as more in-depth analysis from expert scientists.

Polytec PSV500 3D Scanning Vibrometer

Full Matrix's Polytec PSV-500 vibrometer's three independent heads are synchronised to capture the complete 3D velocity profile on a surface.

While traditional sensor mounted alternatives require extensive preparation, laser vibrometry is easily implemented and the number of measurement points is only limited by optical access.

Immediate Visualisation

Intuitive representations to aid interpretation

3D Scanning

Complete velocity vector and geometry map

Dynamic Range

Frequency response from DC to 2 MHz Ultrasound

High Precision

Sub-millimeter spatial resolution at velocities of 0.01 µm/s to 30 m/s

Non-Contact

Optical measurement without disturbing motion

Introducing Laser Doppler Vibrometry

Full Matrix is now offering vibration analysis as a service, using our Polytec PSV-500 3D Scanning Laser Vibrometer.

2 min read

Features

Experimental modal analysis allows users to quickly identify natural frequencies of a component and visualise the deflection patterns of different modes of vibration. The results of this indicate how a component will react to resonant conditions, allowing designers to mitigate risks caused by excessive vibration.

Beyond the easy-to-interpret graphical output, lies a vast resource of detailed, quantitative experimental data that is directly applicable to real world performance. Hence, this analysis is vital for characterising the dynamics of challenging materials, which cannot be modelled effectively.

knife_fork_spoon modal analysis animation

Intuitive visualisations allow laser vibrometry measurements of complicated dynamic motions to be interpreted quickly and easily. These engaging images bring alive hidden details embedded in vibrating components.

Vast amounts of data can be efficiently packaged into configurable 2D and 3D graphics to communicate results and draw conclusions clearly. Engaging 3D animations help to convey complex motions simply, whilst 2D heatmaps aid in pinpointing regions of interest.

Case Studies

Laser vibrometry is ideal for lightweight or fragile components that are difficult to measure accurately, since the weight of attaching sensors can disturb measurement. Additionally, composites, organic materials, and complex assemblies are also ideal candidates as they are notoriously difficult to simulate on account of their inhomogeneity and use of adhesives.

Common examples of this include lightweight composites such as carbon fiber, which are required to withstand excessive vibration in aerospace and automotive applications. In such cases, experimental data is extremely valuable to characterise the real world performance of components in response to realistic conditions.

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations are commonly used to get a detailed picture of a vibrating system. Typically, these models represent homogenous materials with well characterised properties, that do not interact with their environment. Validating the accuracy of these assumptions is an essential quality assurance step, which feeds back into producing more realistic simulations.

Laser vibrometry measures vibration in comparable detail to FEA, but in true experimental conditions, where a material is subject to realistic physical constraints. It is, therefore, highly informative to compare FEA results to experimental vibrometry data.

waves in a plate laser vibrometry and fea

Sound excitation can be used as a tool to map areas of strain within a component. This map lets users pinpoint localised regions where stress maxima are likely lead to excessive damage. Post-processing tools take into account the surface velocity, geometry and material properties to infer the stress distribution of a resonant component. Identifying regions of concern offers substantial benefits, in allowing designers to strengthen weaknesses as part of the design process.

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