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3D PIV Car Model Test

Aerodynamic Flow Analysis Using PIV

Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is a powerful optical technique used to visualize and quantify fluid flow. By tracking seeded particles within the airflow, engineers can measure displacement, velocity, and complex flow structures. This method is widely used in automotive and aerospace industries, where aerodynamic performance plays a critical role in product design and optimization.

Objective

The objective of this study was to understand the aerodynamic flow around a large-scale car model in a wind tunnel, with a focus on obtaining accurate 3D flow velocity data.

Description of the Case Study

The experiment was conducted in a large wind tunnel with airflow speeds of up to 30 m/s. A 500 mJ double-cavity pulse laser was used to illuminate the seeded airflow.

For image acquisition, two 11 MP cameras equipped with Scheimpflug adapters and 100 mm Nikon lenses were arranged in a Stereo PIV configuration, enabling full 3D flow reconstruction.

Due to the size of the model and limitations in illumination coverage, multiple measurements were performed and combined using the Microvec stitching feature, allowing analysis over a larger field of view.

Results obtained with KRYTEN’s Stereo PIV software

The particle image velocimetry analysis provided detailed insight into the airflow behavior around the car model:

❖ 3D flow velocity fields capturing aerodynamic behavior

❖ Visualization of flow structures around the vehicle body

❖ Identification of critical flow regions influencing drag and performance

❖ Flow velocity

These results contributed to improved understanding of aerodynamic performance and supported design optimization of the vehicle body.

Advantages of Using Particle Image Velocimetry

❖ Full-field flow visualization – capture complete velocity fields across large areas

❖ 3D flow visualization – analyze complex aerodynamic structures

❖ Non-intrusive measurement – no disturbance to the flow being analyzed

❖ Scalable setup – suitable for both small-scale and large-scale experiments

This study demonstrates how particle image velocimetry (PIV) enhances aerodynamic analysis of a car model, providing precise, full-field measurements of flow velocity and 3D flow structures. Unlike traditional measurement methods, PIV enables engineers to gain deeper insights into airflow behavior, improving design validation and aerodynamic performance optimization.

For more information about particle image velocimetry and our solutions, please Contact us through email info@mercury-dic.com.

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