Stereo PIV System for Long-Term Coastal Ocean Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laboratory simulations of hydrodynamic phenomena fail to accurately replicate complex natural processes such as non-linear boundary layer effects and large-scale morphodynamics, limiting the ability to study and measure fluid flow and sediment dynamics in ocean environments.
Innovation Solution
A particle image velocimetry (PIV) system that includes a camera, laser, and synchronizer, designed for in-situ measurements in ocean conditions, capable of remote operation, and equipped with a rotating plate to align measurement planes with near-bed flow, using naturally occurring particles to capture time-resolved velocity fields without altering the flow, and tolerating extreme weather and corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If laboratory simulations are used to study hydrodynamic phenomena, then experiments can be controlled and repeated, but the simulations fail to accurately replicate complex natural processes such as non-linear boundary layer effects and large-scale morphodynamics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical laboratory simulation systems with an in-situ optical measurement system. Stereo PIV cameras and laser sheets are deployed directly in the ocean environment to measure flow fields around scaled models, eliminating the need for controlled laboratory flow tunnels while maintaining measurement capability through non-contact optical techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces naturally occurring particles in the water column as intermediaries to trace and measure flow patterns. These particles serve as mediators between the hydrodynamic flow field and the measurement system, allowing accurate capture of complex natural flow phenomena including boundary layer effects and turbulence without altering the fundamental ocean environment
2Duration of action of moving object
If a PIV system is deployed for long-term ocean monitoring, then continuous data collection is achieved, but the system must tolerate extreme weather and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs protective housings and enclosures that shield the optical components and electronics from corrosive saltwater and extreme weather conditions. These protective structures allow the system to operate continuously in harsh marine environments for extended periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes naturally occurring particles already present in the ocean water column rather than requiring active particle injection systems. This self-service approach reduces system complexity and potential failure points while maintaining measurement capability throughout the deployment period
3Reliability
If naturally occurring particles are used for measurement, then the flow is not altered, but the particles must be tracked with sufficient precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs stereo PIV with two cameras positioned at different angles to capture particle positions in three-dimensional space. This dimensional approach allows precise tracking of particles while measuring the full velocity field, overcoming the limitations of single-plane measurements and improving particle detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pulsed laser sheets to illuminate particles at specific time intervals, creating temporal contrast that enhances particle detection. The synchronized pulsing of lasers and cameras captures particle positions with high precision without requiring continuous illumination that would increase energy consumption
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables detailed and long-term observations of near-bed flow and turbulence, allowing for the study of seafloor evolution around objects, with minimal drag and continuous operation, effectively capturing the dynamics of ocean conditions from moderate to strong storms.
Implementation Method 1
a laser to generate a laser sheet
Implementation Method 2
Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is a non-contact technique for characterizing the flow of fluids
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for making in-situ measurements of the sea bed 3 component fluid velocity field and sediment motion across a range of real ocean conditions using particle image velocimetry (PIV). A PIV system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure can include a camera to capture images of the particles in motion, a laser to generate a laser sheet for illuminating the particles, and a synchronizer to act as an external trigger for the laser and the camera.