The thesis deals with the problem of setup for imaging laser-induced shock waves in a
fluid. Imaging of these waves is difficult due to their high speed, and the differences in the
refractive index they cause cannot be detected by classical imaging methods. The schlieren
and shadowgraphy methods enable us to detect small changes of the refractive index.
Based on the requirements of both methods, we have built a Solidworks model of an
optical system that can capture sharp images of shock waves, by repeatedly illuminating
the sensor during its exposure time. It is designed for the light with the wavelength of 800
nm and can capture a field of view with a diameter of 24 mm. It includes a knife-edge
insert for the needs of schlieren photography, and by removing it, the system can also be
used for shadowgraphy. The system can also be used to image other phenomena that
change the refractive index in a transparent medium, such as cavitation bubbles, fluid
mixing and convective heat transfer. The components of the system are modular and can
be adapted to our needs.
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