Alaska is characterized by sparse hydrologic data. Non-intrusive gauging is one method of increasing the data available, but is limited in its current application.
This study assessed the feasibility of using multiple cameras to diversify conditions (wide channels) for which large-scale particle image velocimetry may be applied. Using image manipulation software and the deployment of multiple cameras, video derived discharge is compared with discharge determined using an acoustic Doppler current profiler and state-of-the-art single camera practices in use with large-scale particle image velocimetry.
The results indicate that the use of multiple cameras is feasible, with additional work. Furthermore, there is a relationship between the velocity index (α) and aspect ratio (B/H, width divided by average depth) that is the result of the environmental and geometric conditions for a given cross section, and an empirical relationship could be established to increase the accuracy of video derived discharge measurements.
