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Comparison between optical flow and cross-correlation methods for extraction of velocity fields from particle images

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Abstract

This paper presents direct comparisons between the physics-based optical flow and well-established cross-correlation methods for extraction of velocity fields from particle images. The accuracy and limitations of the optical flow method applied to particle image velocimetry are critically evaluated. After a brief review of the optical flow method, we discuss in detail the error estimates, relevant parameters to the accuracy of optical flow computation, and mathematical connection between the optical flow and the particle velocity. Quantitative evaluations of both the optical flow and correlation methods are made through simulations and physical flow measurements.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to thank R. Prevost (LaVision) and Z. Yang (Wright State University) for their comments.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Western Michigan University, G-217, Parkview Campus, Kalamazoo, MI, 49008, USA

    Tianshu Liu, Ali Merat, M. H. M. Makhmalbaf, Claudia Fajardo & Parviz Merati

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  1. Tianshu Liu
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  2. Ali Merat
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  3. M. H. M. Makhmalbaf
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  4. Claudia Fajardo
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  5. Parviz Merati
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Correspondence to Tianshu Liu.

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Liu, T., Merat, A., Makhmalbaf, M.H.M. et al. Comparison between optical flow and cross-correlation methods for extraction of velocity fields from particle images. Exp Fluids 56, 166 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00348-015-2036-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00348-015-2036-1

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