Continuity of a quantity in a conical system to determine the velocity

In summary, the concept of continuity in a conical system involves analyzing how a quantity, such as fluid or gas, flows through a cone-shaped structure. This principle helps in determining the velocity of the substance as it moves through varying cross-sectional areas of the cone. By applying the continuity equation, which states that the product of the cross-sectional area and velocity remains constant, one can calculate the velocity at different points within the conical system.
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My research is on radar images and the images are collected in several conical surfaces. These conical surfaces have the same origin, the same maximum length (max flare or max range), but different elevations angles. The images are collected on the surface of the cones only.

I want to determine the velocity field in 3D for this image. I have several measurements of the images in time. Usually, in the literature I have seen people using a continuity of the brightness itself (image) in time and space assuming that the reflection is conserved.

However, it is usually done in polar co-ordinates. It is due to the fact that the radial velocities (one component of the flow field in the polar coordinates) are also measured through a radar with Doppler effect.

I was wondering if it is possible to formulate it in a very generic way where I consider a conical coordinate system instead such that I can make use of all the cones? Or, is it a bad exercise ?

Furthermore, it is usually assumed that the energy is conserved so the following cost function is always imposed in optimizing for the flow fields:

$$ J = \left(\frac{\partial \eta}{\partial t} + V_r \frac{\partial \eta}{\partial r} + V_{\theta} \frac{\partial \eta}{r \partial \theta} + V_{\phi} \frac{\partial }{r \sin(\theta) } \frac{\partial\eta}{\partial \phi} \right)^2 $$.

However, if the total reflection is not conserved, how can I optimize for the flow field? Do I have to estimate a constant [itex]A_0[/itex] such that,

$$\frac{\partial \eta}{\partial t} + V_r \frac{\partial \eta}{\partial r} + V_{\theta} \frac{\partial \eta}{r \partial \theta} + V_{\phi} \frac{\partial }{r \sin(\theta) } \frac{\partial\eta}{\partial \phi} = A_0$$ ?, instead of 0 ?

The reflection or image is [itex]\eta[/itex], and the flow field is [itex]\vec{V}[/itex].
 

FAQ: Continuity of a quantity in a conical system to determine the velocity

What is the definition of continuity in a conical system?

Continuity in a conical system refers to the principle that the mass flow rate of a fluid remains constant throughout the system, assuming there are no leaks or accumulations. This means that the product of the cross-sectional area and the velocity of the fluid at any point in the system must be equal, which is a direct application of the conservation of mass.

How do you determine the velocity of a fluid in a conical system?

The velocity of a fluid in a conical system can be determined using the continuity equation, which states that A1V1 = A2V2, where A is the cross-sectional area and V is the velocity at two different points in the system. By measuring the areas at these points, you can rearrange the equation to solve for the unknown velocity.

What factors affect the continuity of flow in a conical system?

Several factors can affect the continuity of flow in a conical system, including changes in fluid density, viscosity, temperature, and the presence of obstructions or bends in the flow path. Additionally, variations in the cross-sectional area of the cone can also impact the flow characteristics and velocity of the fluid.

Can the continuity equation be applied to compressible fluids in a conical system?

Yes, the continuity equation can be applied to compressible fluids in a conical system, but it requires modifications to account for changes in density. In such cases, the equation must incorporate the density of the fluid at different points, leading to a more complex analysis that may involve the use of the ideal gas law or other equations of state.

What are common applications of continuity in conical systems?

Common applications of continuity in conical systems include fluid flow in pipes, nozzles, and diffusers, as well as in various engineering applications such as hydraulic systems, aerodynamics, and chemical processing. Understanding continuity helps engineers design systems that effectively manage fluid flow and optimize performance.

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