Research on the motion characteristics of flotation bubbles based on virtual binocular stereo vision technology

Understanding bubble kinematics in flotation is essential for process optimization, yet conventional two-dimensional (2D) imaging provides only limited descriptors. Here, bubbles in a column flotation system were examined using a custom-built virtual binocular stereovision platform that acquires dual-view images for stereoscopic characterization. The raw images were processed in MATLAB, and bubble parameters were extracted through camera calibration and coordinate transformation. The effects of reagent concentration and gas distributor orifice diameter on bubble velocity were quantified, and the relationships among velocity, equivalent diameter, and aspect ratio were analyzed. Results show that bubble velocity decreases with increasing reagent concentration and increases with larger orifice diameter. The concentration-induced reduction in velocity is markedly enhanced as the concentration increases from 1 to 2 mg/dm<sup>3</sup>, and this effect is most pronounced for the 0.2-mm orifice. Peaks in instantaneous velocity coincide with minima in aspect ratio, indicating transient bubble elongation at high speed. Bubble velocity is positively correlated with equivalent diameter, and this scaling is independent of aperture size. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for tuning operating conditions in hematite column flotation. The findings provide a quantitative foundation for understanding bubble kinematics in flotation systems and contribute to improving mineral separation efficiency through more precise hydrodynamic regulation.