PIV flow visualisation using particle tracking techniques

The practical use of particle image velocimetry (PIV) requires the use of fast, reliable, computer-based methods for tracking numerous particles suspended in a fluid flow. Two methods for performing tracking are presented. One method tracks a particle through multiple, sequential images (minimum of four required) by prediction and verification of particle displacement and direction. The other method, requiring only two sequential images, uses a dynamic, binary, spatial, cross-correlation technique. The algorithms were tested on both synthetic data and experimental data which were obtained with traditional PIV methods. This allowed error analysis and testing of the algorithms on real engineering flows.