Three dimensional reconstruction of coherent structures using image processing techniques

An algorithm for reconstructing three dimensional images of coherent structures using a commercially available video image processing system is presented. The principal advantages of this work are low cost and minimal development time. The image processing system comes complete with frame grabbing and four software programs needed for image reconstruction. The process entails: grabbing individual video frames comprising a single three dimensional image of a vortex, converting each frame to a polygon, ordering successive polygons to reconstruct the vortex skeleton, and generating a surface for full three dimensional reconstruction. The processing system also includes a computer movie studio for creating animations, and a video editing system for producing professional quality video presentations.Support of the Office of Naval Research (Grant No. N00014-92-J-1020) through Dr. Edwin P. Rood is gratefully acknowledged.