A particle tracking velocimetry algorithm based on the Voronoi diagram

Abstract

Particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) algorithms have great applications in tracking discrete particles across successive images. In managing complex flows, classic PTV algorithms typically follow delicate concepts that may lead to a higher risk of disturbance caused by the parameter settings. To avoid such a ‘closure problem’, a PTV algorithm based on the Voronoi diagram (VD-PTV) is developed. This algorithm has a simple structure, as it is designed to possess only one controlling parameter. The VD-PTV is tested using two types of synthetic flows. The result shows that the VD-PTV exhibits a stable performance with good accuracy level and is independent of parameter pre-setting. Moreover, the VD-PTV demonstrates satisfactory computing speed.