Optimum Accuracy of Two-Dimensional Strain Measurements Using Digital Image Correlation

Foil and vibrating wire strain gauges have an optimum strain measurement accuracy of one microstrain. However, they can only provide discrete strain readings over a single fixed-gauge length. Digital image correlation (DIC) offers an alternative to conventional strain gauges because a two-dimensional (2D) surface strain field can be obtained from a single sensor (camera). However, the benefits of 2D strain measurements are only worthwhile if a similar level of measurement accuracy to conventional strain gauges can be achieved. This paper presents the results of an investigation into the optimum strain measurement accuracy that can be achieved by using the 2D technique on artificial images (which eliminate errors associated with cameras and lighting). The principle of the 2D DIC technique and its historical development will be introduced. Then, three potential techniques for taking strain measurements will be presented and compared: single readings, averaged linear readings, and an approach on the basis of Mohr's circle. The Mohr's circle approach was found to be the most accurate and was not susceptible to image misalignment. Strain measurement accuracy was also found to be affected by the bias error of the subpixel interpolation scheme, but the use of an 8 coefficient B-spline was found to produce satisfactory results within the error of conventional strain gauges. Gauge length was also found to have a significant effect on strain measurement accuracy, indicating that measuring strains in a material in which there are variations across the strain field could result in a loss of measurement accuracy. However, overall it was found that 2D DIC offers the same strain measurement accuracy as conventional strain gauges when used under ideal conditions. DOI:10.1061/(ASCE)CP.1943-5487.0000182. (C) 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers.