Augmented Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer

Laser Doppler vibrometers (LDV) are used for non-contact vibration measurements of various structures and are frequently used for stringed instrument measurements. Single-point LDVs can be used with the roving hammer or LDV method for mode shape measurements, but this is time-consuming and requires constant attention. Scanning LDVs exist but are expensive and often out of reach of musical acoustics researchers. An inexpensive apparatus to modify a common single-point LDV such that it can perform automated scanning measurements was designed. The augmentation consists of a mirror galvanometer, impact hammer controller, and 3D printed mounting hardware. The scanning system is controlled by a microprocessor and can be easily automated. The total cost of the system, excluding the LDV and impact hammer, is under two hundred dollars.

Here are the slides from an ASA talk about the scanning vibrometer.