Problem
Evaluate an optical diagnostic system that makes otherwise invisible density gradients in a flow observable and spatially selective.
P-01 / Optics & Research
Self-Aligning Focusing Schlieren Research
Contributed to development and testing of a self-aligning focusing schlieren setup using analytical plots, optical geometry, physical alignment, and visualization experiments.
- Organization
- Florida Center for Advanced Aero-Propulsion · Florida State University
- Engineering problem
- Evaluate an optical diagnostic system that makes otherwise invisible density gradients in a flow observable and spatially selective.
- My role
- Undergraduate researcher supporting optical alignment, analytical evaluation, and experimental visualization tests.
- Verified result
- Connected analytical optical relationships with alignment decisions and recorded experimental imagery.
RECRUITER VIEW / SIX-POINT SUMMARY
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My role
Undergraduate researcher supporting optical alignment, analytical evaluation, and experimental visualization tests.
What I contributed
Contributed to development and testing of a self-aligning focusing schlieren setup using analytical plots, optical geometry, physical alignment, and visualization experiments.
Technologies
MATLAB · Optical alignment · Lenses · Ronchi gratings · Imaging
Validation / result
Connected analytical optical relationships with alignment decisions and recorded experimental imagery.
Lesson / relevance
The work reinforced that an optical model becomes useful only when it informs a buildable alignment and a measurable test. It also developed experience moving between equations, bench hardware, and recorded evidence.