New Approaches to Hydrodynamic Flow Visualization on Surfaces.

Abstract : A wide range of technologies was surveyed to find promising new techniques of visualizing hydrodynamic flow phenomena on surfaces. Various forms of coatings were considered: liquids, erodable solids, small tufts, chemicals, liquid crystals, and optically deformable coatings. Experimental and conceptual studies indicate that high-viscosity fluids for dot patterns, optical techniques with soft coatings, and liquid crystals in modified form, may provide improved flow visualization. However, each of these techniques requires further development as specified in the report. (Author)