Characterization of linearity and uniformity of fiber-based endoscopes for 3D combustion measurements.

Abstract

This work reports the application of fiber-based endoscopes (FBEs) for instantaneous three-dimensional (3D) flow and combustion measurements, with an emphasis on characterizing the linearity and uniformity of the FBEs and exploring their potential for obtaining quantitative measurements. Controlled experiments were performed using a uniform illuminator to characterize the linearity and uniformity of the FBEs. Based on such characterization, 3D instantaneous measurements of flames were demonstrated by a combined use of FBEs and tomography. To obtain 3D flame measurement, 3D tomographic reconstructions were made from multiple projections of the target flames collected from various orientations by the FBEs. The results illustrate the potential of FBEs to obtain quantitative 3D flow and combustion measurements and also the advantages FBEs offer, including overcoming optical access restrictions and equipment cost.