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Double pattern improves the Schlieren methods for measuring liquid–air interface topography

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Abstract

The Schlieren method intends to reveal the elevation of a refractive fluid–fluid interface. The method is based on a comparison of images of a single pattern placed at the bottom of the container. Accurate measurements can be obtained with a simple and low-cost optical setup. However, it is restricted to weak interface deformations, weak slopes and weak paraxial angles. To overcome these limitations, we propose an enhanced optical setup that uses a bitelecentric objective and a double pattern. Thanks to this new setup, we avoid geometrical approximations and we extend the method to moderate/large deformations. Moreover, the proposed method does not depend on the liquid depth and could be used in various applications.

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Acknowledgements

We thank Y. E. Corbisier for his support to draw 3D sketches and pictures for this paper.

Funding

This work is financially supported by the University of Liège through the CESAM Research Unit.

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Contributions

JM, GL and MP contributed to the conception of the proposed method. JM, MP and NV wrote the manuscript.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jean Metzmacher.

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The authors have no competing interests to declare that are relevant to the content of this article.

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Metzmacher, J., Lagubeau, G., Poty, M. et al. Double pattern improves the Schlieren methods for measuring liquid–air interface topography. Exp Fluids 63, 120 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00348-022-03467-w

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00348-022-03467-w

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