Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is a method to visualize fluid flow by introducing tracer particles that behave like the fluid. PIV uses computer software to record and enhance visible tracers, and can be used with small glass beads, aluminum flakes, or oil droplets. PIV is used in aerospace engineering, healthcare, and biology, and can record fluid motion in two or three dimensions.
Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is a commonly used method to visualize the flow of particles in a fluid. PIV is often implemented for educational or research purposes and allows a scientist to measure the speed and motion of fluids such as water. There are several approaches to particle image velocimetry, and the technique continues to improve as new technology is developed.
To visualize the movement of a fluid, very small particles called “tracers” are introduced into the flow. Due to their small size, these tracer particles behave almost identically to the studied fluid. The tracers used in PIV can be illuminated by the scientist, which makes them easily visible. Particle image velocimetry often uses computer software to record and enhance visible tracers.
A few different tracer particles can be used; small glass beads, aluminum flakes, and oil droplets are three common materials that can be implemented for this purpose. These tracers reflect light very well and increase the visibility of a fluid. Light reflections can be studied with the naked eye or captured by a camera for analysis. While any light source can be sufficient for PIV, a laser is typically used when accuracy is important.
Film photography was the primary method of recording particle movements when PIV was first developed, although the invention of inexpensive digital cameras made the analog approach obsolete. High-resolution digital particle images are now commonplace. Some computer programs can automatically recognize and track each tracer in a PIV image and provide real-time data on the motion of a fluid.
Standard particle image velocimetry records the motion of a fluid in two dimensions. Some variants of PIV enhance this capability and allow for three-dimensional visualization. This approach uses two cameras instead of one and is often called stereoscopic PIV. Using special computer software, the points of view from these two cameras are combined to create a new point of view.
Particle image velocimetry has many applications. It is commonly used in aerospace engineering and allows scientists to see the airflow over an aircraft wing or other control surface. PIV is also used in the healthcare community. Studying the movement of fluids within the body helps doctors visualize blood circulation and develop new medical implants. In addition, biologists also sometimes use particle image velocimetry to study the swimming motion of fish or other marine creatures.
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