Correlating and Modeling of Extracted Features from PVT Images of Composites using Optical Flow Technique and Weight Elimination Algorithm Optimization [OFT-WEA]

A new approach to the use and implementation of Optical Flow technique is presented. The technique extracts features from presented images as a function of reference image and produces percentage of matching between the reference and tested images. The new approach in using Optical Flow lies in replacing the motion part of the algorithm with differential time related changes in an infrared thermal image sequence with frames of images taken as a result of applying the Pulse Video Thermography (PVT) technique. The sequence of images or frames is obtained for the tested structures of composites before and after impact damage. The resulted data of the tested images is used to establish mathematical model that can be used to predict impact energy from collected features or predict expected features from knowing impact damage level. To optimize the mathematical model, a new way of using Neural Networks is employed, which aims at obtaining a best fit for the used variables in the mathematical model, hence resulting in a better testing interpretation and more accurate prediction and classification of image features to improve future composite structures designs. The Neural Network Weigh Elimination Algorithm (WEA) is used and proved effective in predicting areas of damage.