Meshing in a single, integrated simulation environment (e.g., Caedium) for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is different, in a good way, from meshing in a dedicated mesh or post-processing tool. An integrated CFD simulation environment has the standard meshing tools, but in addition upstream you have a full geometry engine to create and modify geometry as needed, and downstream you can use the same meshing tools for visualization, such as seeds for streamlines and surfaces for results interpolation. You are not forced into a linear progression through the CFD simulation process, because often it requires multiple visits backwards and forwards (non-linear) through the tool chain to get to a final result. Also the visualization of mesh metrics (e.g., surface mesh quality) is identical to general flow field visualization (e.g., pressure), which minimizes the number of concepts you need to learn.

Single, Integrated CFD Simulation Environment

Given the option, it is often better to create geometry specifically for your Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. It is even better if your CFD system supports geometry creation. Then you can stay within a single integrated simulation environment for your entire task without the need to learn or purchase additional software packages.

Two Flow Volumes Created Ready For CFD Simulation

Let me explain why, given the option, you should prefer analytic geometry (e.g., NURBS) over faceted geometry (e.g., STL) for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

CFD Mesh for a Faceted WheelNote spurious flat spots

If fluid flow is a primary driver for your design project then Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is likely to be a cost effective way to help meet your goals. You could outsource your CFD to consultants, but in the long run it usually pays to do it yourself.

Dust Collector CFD Simulation

The Caedium Simulation Control Toolbar provides the controls to initialize and run your Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Take a moment to learn how to use these simulation controls effectively.

Caedium CFD SimulationAfter a single step of iterations

The Caedium Accuracy tool is largely responsible for determining the accuracy of your Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations by imposing constraints on the underlying computational mesh or grid. Therefore, it's worth spending a moment to learn how the Accuracy tool in Caedium works.

Volume Mesh Elements

To complete this series of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) on simple rotating paper wings, we now turn our attention to the walkalong tumblewing.

CFD Simulation of a Walkalong TumblewingVelocity vectors at 0 degrees

Although a sheet of paper can be made to fly by spinning, it isn't always reliable. By adding winglets and flaps with 4 simple folds we can improve the stability of the wing and in so doing produce a tumblewing. How do the aerodynamics of a tumblewing compare with a sheet of paper? It just so happens Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) can help, just as it did with the simulation of the spinning sheet of paper.

CFD Simulation of a Rotating TumblewingPressure iso-surfaces at 90 degrees

I don’t think anyone would argue with the fact that paper airplanes are simple (and fun!), but what is the simplest paper airplane that can still fly? I give you a single rectangular piece of paper without any folds that will gently spin around its longest horizontal axis if released with a long edge parallel to the ground. Next, what is the simplest Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method that can capture the essence of the spinning paper? I give you the Moving Reference Frame (MRF, also known as the frozen rotor method) option for CFD. Combine the two and you arrive at an interesting simulation of a simple phenomenon.

CFD Simulation of a Rotating Paper SheetVelocity vectors at 90 degrees

New to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)? Then you've come to the right place. Becoming productive in CFD can be a daunting task. However, as with all long term goals, if you break it down into smaller, achievable tasks, in no time you'll be up to speed and ready for production level work. Assuming you are familiar with the fluid dynamics of your application, then let's begin.

CFD Simulation in Caedium