Submarine Water Flow Characterization Using Particle Image Velocimetry

The study of velocity characteristics in a hydric flow represents a valuable tool for evaluating the potential for renewable electric generation through hydrokinetic turbines. Although there are instruments available for measuring flow velocity, most of them are devices that give measurements in a single point and provide little information about the overall characteristics of the flow. The purpose of this work is to present a practical option for measuring the velocity of a water current in the field using image processing and analysis algorithms with the intention of facilitating the study of energy generation potential through hydrokinetic generators. A variation of the Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique is implemented on videos of marine currents captured using commercial underwater action cameras, obtaining results that allow for both qualitative and quantitative assessment of the energy potential of a given water current. Videos obtained in Punta Cancún, in the state of Quintana Roo, were analyzed, and it was confirmed that it is possible to obtain non-surface velocity vector fields that can contribute to the evaluation of generation potential in hydrokinetic turbines.