The wind tunnels are intended to be open-use shared spaces that are used as prolifically and efficiently as possible by as many users as possible. To accommodate this philosophy, all users must complete the requirements laid out by the GT-AE Shared Spaces committee in order to gain access.
The Harper tunnel employs a two-tier system for gaining access: (1) entry only, and (2) full operation.
Entry only access
Access to Harper is controlled by a Buzzcard reader on the door in the MK/Guggenheim first floor corridor. Once ‘entry only’ access is approved you will gain entry to the Harper space in its entirety, but not operation of the wind tunnel. This facilitates use of the outer work areas, planning activities in and around the tunnel, and access to storage, without needing to go through full tunnel training. Note that this level of access does give you access to the test section but you will not be able to power on the tunnel. If you do intend to use the test section for any extended length of time, even though you can’t power on the tunnel, you must make a reservation in the shared calendar (to prevent a conflict with other users), and remove your experiment prior to the end of your reservation. To obtain entry only access, follow the below steps in chronological order:
- Download, thoroughly read, and complete (either electronically or print+sign+scan) the GT-AE Shared Spaces User Agreement.
- Complete the GT-AE Shared Spaces Initial Access Request Form.
- Schedule an in-person initiation with the Lab Manager, after which you will be provided with:
- Buzzcard access
- Reservation calendar access
- Mailing list and MS Teams sign-up
Full operation access
The Harper tunnel is a large, powerful, and dangerous piece of equipment if not operated safely, responsibly, and with appropriate knowledge of the operating procedures. As such, operation of the tunnel is subject to a fairly involved training and safety orientation, after which the ability to electrically energize the tunnel will be provided. Operation of the Harper requires a minimum of two users with approved full operation access to be physically present at all times so make sure that you have at least one additional ‘buddy’ co-apply for full operation access. Note that, since only two users are required to be fully trained, you need not have all members of your team undergo this training (but enough to have some redundancy is a good idea). Finally, in addition to training, a signoff procedure must be performed whereby the Lab Manager will check your physical installation and be present during the first run of your experiment. To optimize the process of obtaining full operation access and to ensure your training is fresh in your brain, your training and signoff run will occur consecutively. The Lab Manager will work with you to ensure this process is as seamless as possible. To obtain full operation access, follow the below steps in chronological order:
- If you haven’t already done so, complete all steps above to gain entry only access
- Give the Lab Manager an initial 1-2 weeks notice of your estimated readiness to ensure minimal waiting time between experiment installation and your training/signoff, following up with updates to that estimate thereafter
- Complete experiment installation and immediately inform the Lab Manager
- Undergo initiation, experimental hardware review, and sign off campaign, after which you will be issued the ability to unlock and energize the wind tunnel
- You are now free to operate the tunnel 24/7/365 subject to the shared calendar and operating rules
For non-Georgia Tech persons
Please complete the GT-AE Shared Spaces External User Request form, and introduce yourself to the Lab Manager if you haven’t done so by email at 
.