Researchers have developed a real-time imaging system that can capture images of fast-spinning objects over long durations. Real-time monitoring of rotating parts such as the turbine blades used in power plants or the fan blades of jet engines is critical for detecting early signs of damage—such as wear or cracks—helping prevent serious failures and reducing maintenance needs.

“Capturing clear images of fast-spinning objects is challenging because they tend to blur or look grainy,” said research team member Zibang Zhang from Jinan University in China. “Although high-speed cameras can help, they’re expensive and can’t be used for long periods. Our method overcomes this challenge by virtually freezing time by exploiting the repetitiveness of the object’s motion.”

In the journal Optics Letters, the researchers describe their new imaging system, which is based on a single-pixel detector. They show that it can capture images of an object spinning at around 14,700 rounds per minute (rpm).