Abstract Disclosed is a method of visualizing laminar to turbulent boundary layer transition, shock location, and laminar separation bubbles around a test surface. A liquid crystal coating is formulated using an unencapsulated liquid crystal operable in a temperature bandwidth compatible with the temperature environment around the test surface. The liquid crystal coating is applied to the test surface, which is preferably pre-treated by painting with a flat black paint to achieve a deep matte coating, after which the surface is subjected to a liquid or gas flow. Color change in the liquid crystal coating is produced in response to differences in relative shear stress within the boundary layer around the test surface.
A method of visualizing laminar to turbulent boundary layer transition, shock location, and laminar separation bubbles around a test surface, the method comprising: formulating a chiral nematic liquid crystal coating using an encapsulated liquid crystal operable in a temperature bandwidth compatible with the temperature environment around the test surface; applying said chiral nematic liquid crystal coating to the test surface; and subjecting the test surface to a liquid or gas flow; whereby a color change is produced in response to differences in relative shear stress within the boundary layer around the test surface.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
93 words
A method of visualizing laminar to turbulent boundary layer transition, shock location, and laminar separation bubbles around a test surface, the method comprising: formulating a chiral nematic liquid crystal coating using an encapsulated liquid crystal operable in a temperature bandwidth compatible with the temperature environment around the test surface; applying said chiral nematic liquid crystal coating to the test surface; and subjecting the test surface to a liquid or gas flow; whereby a color change is produced in response to differences in relative shear stress within the boundary layer around the test surface.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
36 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the test surface is prepared by painting with a flat, black paint to achieve a deep matte coating which is capable of absorbing the chiral nematic liquid crystal material.