PIV Uncertainty and Measurement Accuracy

Abstract

The chapter starts with an overview of common PIV measurement error contributions. Then important parameters for the optimization of PIV measurements are discussed and the significance of the dynamic velocity range and dynamic spatial range is outlined. Thereafter, the concept of measurement error is introduced and the error propagation essentials are discussed. The sensitivity of the measurement uncertainty on the particle image size, particle image density, background noise, particle image shift, out-of-plane motion, light-sheet mismatch, displacement gradients and streamline curvature is discussed in detail. The chapter finishes with strategies to optimize PIV uncertainties and outlines the main implications of the uncertainty analysis for multi-camera recording systems. The aim of this chapter is to familiarize the reader with various sources and sensitivities of PIV measurement uncertainty which will be instructive for optimizing PIV measurements in practice.