Making waves in vibration measurement with laser Doppler vibrometry

The impact of the invention of the laser cannot be over-stated. In vibration and acoustics engineering, the laser Doppler vibrometer has revolutionised the means by which scientists and engineers can interpret and control the natural and man-made environment, both on and off the planet. Combining high sensitivity, dynamic and frequency ranges, non-invasiveness and high spatial resolution, laser Doppler vibrometers (LDVs) have received significant and increasing attention in both research and industry. This paper will briefly investigate the origins, working principles and evolution of LDVs, focusing on industrially relevant, practical applications. Particular focus will be on overcoming specific challenges associated with making successful measurement campaigns in challenging scenarios, including directly from rotating equipment and from vibrating platforms, a UTS topic of interest