Extended three-dimensional digital image correlation (X3D-DIC)

A correlation algorithm is proposed to measure full three-dimensional displacement fields in a three-dimensional domain. The chosen kinematic basis for this measurement is based on continuous finite-element shape functions. It is furthermore proposed to account for the presence of strong discontinuities, similarly to extended finite element schemes, with a suited enrichment of the kinematics with discontinuities supported by a (crack) surface. An optimization of the surface geometry is proposed based on correlation residuals. The procedure is applied to analyze one loading cycle of a fatigue-cracked nodular graphite cast iron sample by using computed tomography pictures. Subvoxel crack openings are revealed and measured.