Fiber Optic Switch For Broadband Emission Spectroscopy

Many high-temperature processes comprise large-scale phenomena. Studying spatial and temporal correlations of physical processes between several locations within characteristic scales provides desired information on macroscopic physical processes. Achieved with emission spectroscopy by use of multiple optical fibers. Simultaneous coupling of light from these fibers into single available spectrometer and/or monochromator not accomplished without added expense of two-dimensional array and increased complexity of calibration. Quasi-simultaneous coupling, while maintaining optimum alignment and maximum throughput of broadband emission, achieved by use of fiber optic multiscanner. Instrument used successfully in study of frozen-flow losses internal to flow of plasma inside nozzle of arc jet. Instrument includes two hollow disks of different sizes and stepping motor.