Diagnostic techniques based on video analysis and digital image processing are implemented using inexpensive educational computers and home-video systems. Coupled with laser-based imaging systems, these techniques enable a quantitative understanding of the details of unsteady, multidimensional flows. This permits us to address a major need in undergraduate fluid dynamics education: we can teach about unsteady flows, and equip the engineering graduate with the understanding and skills needed to make flow control innovations in a variety of applications. A laboratory is proposed, to be organized around the existing strengths of a modern aerospace fluid dynamics curriculum, to test this concept for a year. Success will lead to a new way of teaching fluid dynamics, where students will work hands-on with actual , dynamic flow images as part of their courses. The project consists of designing and implementing an experimental image database, using it in course assignments, developing and teaching a new course on advanced flow diagnostics, and developing course material for a new Flow Control course. The results will be disseminated by means of image data discs, manuals and a Conference paper.
