Goal #01: Produce a Shock Wave That Meets Performance Requirements
→ Develop a method with which to verify that the shock tube is producing shock waves as intended.
→ Conduct experimentation to determine the ideal driving gas.
→ Monitor for signs of diaphragm interference.
Goal #02: Construct a Structurally Safe and Reliable Shock Tube
→ Develop working CAD models for the tube, including (but not limited to) a materials list and fabrication drawings.
→ Work to maintain structural integrity at extreme temperatures and pressures.
Goal #03: Develop a Reliable Data Acquisition System
→ Verify the initial conditions of the shock tube (temperature, pressure, etc.) before any testing is performed.
→ Monitor real-time sensor data during testing within the shock tube.
→ Store previous testing data that can be accessed through the developed program.
Challenge #01: Maintaining Seamless Transitions Between Subsystems
→ Arguably the most important aspect of the project, the transfer of data between the mechanical section to the data collection program, must be seamless.
→ Mechanical aspects of the system must link perfectly to any electrical components and/or sensors.
Challenge #02: Design for Repeated Usage
→ The shock tube must be able to withstand repetitive usage, even after the testing stage is complete.
→ The tube will be used in future classes as well as in future research, it must continue to function properly.