A method to extract wave tank data using video imagery and its comparison to conventional data collection techniques

A procedure for obtaining quantitative wave and morphodynamic data in a laboratory setting using video images has been developed. The steps include image capture, rectification, and data extraction. All the necessary steps were maintained within the MATLAB environment so the process was streamlined and large amounts of data processed. The procedure involves the use of a program to rectify images, correcting for both lens distortion and camera position. A second program automatically extracts data from images to allow for high spatial and time frequency analysis. The method is shown to produce acceptable results as compared to more conventional methods of measuring wave and profile parameters in a wave tank experiment.