Effect of predictor-corrector filtering on the stability and spatial resolution of iterative PIV interrogation

The stability and resolution of iterative PIV image analysis methods is investigated. The study focuses on the effects of stabilization by means of spatial filtering when implemented into the iterative process. Two filtering approaches are studied: predictor and corrector filtering respectively. A family of convolution filters is proposed, which allows to vary the filtering strength in a systematic way and primarily affects the system stability and to a smaller extent its spatial response. A critical value for the filter parameter is identified which guarantees the stability of the iterative process. A theoretical analysis is provided that determines the asymptotic properties of the iterative method with varying filter parameters. The study is completed with a numerical assessment and concludes with an application to real experiments, showing the consequence of an incorrect implementation of the iterative scheme under experimental conditions.