Telescience and Image Processing for PODI (Prototype Optical Diagnostic Instrument): An Analysis and a Proposal for a Simulation Set-Up

摘要

A prototype optical diagnostic instrument (PODI) for microgravity fluid physics was developed. The instrument consists of a whole field Schlieren and scene observation system combined with a narrow field optical stimulus/observation system which can accommodate various optical diagnostic instruments. An equal beam Twyman-Green interferometer and a moire deflectometer were developed as passengers for the narrow field system. Adding an electronic subsystem with a digitizing capability for camera images makes quantitative analyses possible. Positioning devices and an additional camera enable computer controlled data acquisition and experiment control. For use in a fluid science facility, PODI should be developed taking into account requirements for telescience. Requirements related to communication, on board processing, and ground station processing are discussed. Image processing algorithms for PODI and for which space application should be considered are described. Prototyping is needed to extend PODI with image acquisition and experiment control. Telescience concepts and several image processing algorithms need prototyping also. For prototyping an additional electronic subsystem with image acquisition capabilities is proposed.