Measurement of the Pulse Force Exerted on Laser Thrusters Using a Semiconductor Strain Transducer
Cun-Yan Cui, Yan-Ji Hong, Guo-Qiang He, Hai-Bin Zhao and Jun-Hua Wang
A set of test pulse forces has been drawn up using a Semiconductor Strain Transducer (SST) as sensor. The experimental principles have been discussed and the force loading process can be carried out, when the parabolic laser thruster is irradiated by a single laser pulse. The experimental results have been analysed and the cause for the force curve surge explained. The impulse coupling coefficient, obtained in this experiment, is very close to those reported in the scientific literature. This indicates that this pulse force measuring system is reliable and beneficial in developing the test for the instantaneous pulse force.