Application of computer vision techniques to measure cavitation bubble volume and cavitating tip vortex diameter

In present paper application of computer vision techniques to propeller cavitation experiments is presented. These techniques are widely adopted in many different environments and therefore they are well documented. They are also attractive from an economic point of view, due to relative low cost of the hardware involved. Nevertheless their application to study propeller behavior in cavitation tunnel is not straightforward, because of the nonstandard environment. However the scenario opened by adopting these techniques is wide and can result in a deepening of knowledge in the propeller cavitation field. In particular obtained data can be linked to connected topics, such as propeller radiated noise or pressure signature, providing a better understanding on the sources of these effects, and invaluable information for validation of computer simulations. Present paper traces a possible path to develop an experimental technique, covering theoretical points as well as data analysis strategies and other practical aspects. All techniques are presented through practical application, thus making clearer their points of strength and their shortcomings. Besides achieved results, possible improvements and future developments are outlined.