TrackAER: real-time event-based quantitative flow visualization

Abstract

We present a novel event-based quantitative flow visualization system, TrackAER, capable of continuously reconstructing, rendering and recording particle tracks in large test volumes without limitations on the measurement duration. Multiple event-based cameras are synchronized and calibrated to produce independent and asynchronous, yet temporally co-registered data streams of flow tracer positions. Subsequently, these data streams are merged into time-resolved three-dimensional particle tracks using photogrammetric techniques. Due to the operating principle of event cameras, the flow scenery is reduced to moving objects only, which effectively compresses the data stream at the camera source. In combination with an efficient data processing pipeline, the measurement system operates in real-time, reconstructing and rendering the investigated flow field without noticeable time lag. The data processing approach follows a “per-event” paradigm and enables the immediate observation and analysis of both, transient and long duration flow features. Specific issues resulting from event-based, frame-free processing are discussed as well as the advantages and limitations of event cameras. Exemplary results are provided to demonstrate the utility of the TrackAER system where Lagrangian particle track information is displayed in a virtual scene together with extracted quantitative information such as local flow velocities.