Innovative and automated method for vortex identification

Context. As a universally accepted definition of vortex has not yet been established, the community lacks an unambiguous and rigorous method for identifying vortices in fluid flows. Such would be useful conducting robust statistical studies on highly dynamical turbulent systems such as solar atmosphere. Aims. We aim to develop innovative automated methodology identification based local global characteristics flow, while avoiding use threshold that could potentially prevent detection weak process. Methods. present new combines rigor mathematical criteria with perspective morphological techniques. The core consists estimation center rotation every point flow presents some degree curvature its neighborhood. For this purpose, we employed Rortex criterion combined it considerations velocity field. then identified coherent vortical structures clusters estimated centers rotation. Results. demonstrate is more reliable than swirling strength vorticity extraction physical information from flows, because measures rigid-body rotational part alone biased by presence pure or intrinsic shears. show performs well context simplistic test case composed two Lamb-Oseen vortices. proposed state-of-the-art clustering algorithm build algorithm. was applied artificial multiple Lamb–Oseen vortices, random noisy background, simulated magneto-hydrodynamical Orszag-Tang test. results reliability accuracy method. Conclusions. can considered tool study (magneto)hydrodynamical By applying implemented numerical simulations observational data, comparing existing methods, seek successively improve detections and, ultimately, our knowledge motions solar, stellar, planetary atmospheres.