3D Printed Schlerien Imaging Setup Unveils the Invisible by Depicting Turbulence in Fluid Dynamics
DIY Schlieren Imaging with 3D Printing:
Ever wanted to peer into the unseen? That's exactly what [Ayden Wardell Aerospace] delivers with their budget-friendly project, the $30 Schlieren Imaging Setup. This setup reveals differences in air density, essentially the refractive index of the fluid it uses - in this case, air. On a sunny day, you've probably seen those "heat" waves - that's lower-density hot air refracting light as it rises. Schlieren photography takes advantage of this, allowing for fluid flow analysis - like the mach cones in a DIY rocket nozzle, which caught [Ayden Wardell Aerospace]'s attention.
Now, [Ayden Wardell Aerospace] claims their setup technically falls under a shadowgraph, as their clever placement of the smartphone's case edge replaces the traditional razor blade. While some might argue, a shadowgraph (showing the second derivative of density) is a valuable technique for flow visualization, especially when investigating shock waves. but you don't have to listen to the online debate. Grab a mirror, a roll of filament, and test it out yourself!
The magic of this project lies in the STLs provided for the mirror and smartphone mounting, along with a BOM and a clear instructional video. No more comment section squabbles about authenticity - get building!
This isn't the only way to create a Schlieren image. We've touched upon background-oriented techniques and even using a moiré pattern or a selfie stick. But this is the first time 3D printing has been involved, and the build video below is quick and guarantees stunning Schlieren images.
Now, if you're interested in diving deeper into 3D printing applications for Schlieren imaging, we've gathered some drool-worthy insights. As a DIY enthusiast, consider integrating 3D printed custom optics mounts, innovative knife edge designs, enclosures, alignment structures, and even a two-mirror (Z-path) setup for a hassle-free alignment experience.
You can automate the design process using Python scripts with OpenSCAD to generate 3D models for printing. For example, here's a simple script that creates a lens mount:
```python
from openscad import *
def lens_mount(diameter, height): # Create a cylinder for the lens cylinder(d = diameter, h = height)
lens_mount(20, 10)```
However, this isn't a specific DIY project for Schlieren imaging using 3D printing. It merely provides a roadmap for integrating 3D printing into your setup for enhanced functionality and precision. Happy printing!
- The project showcased by Ayden Wardell Aerospace, the DIY Schlieren Imaging Setup, uses 3D printing for the mirror and smartphone mounting, demonstrating the application of this technology in the realm of science and technology.
- As you dive deeper into DIY Schlieren Imaging, consider creating custom 3D printed optics mounts, knife edge designs, enclosures, and alignment structures, leveraging technology to improve the precision and functionality of your homemade setup.
