Problem Statement: Simulating a Unidirectional flow for a scale like rigid body using SIMSCALE
Tools: Solidworks, SIMSCALE
Concepts: Computational Fluid Dynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Particle Trace Patterns, Flow Visualization.
To
December 2024
From
August 2024
Tasks:
Simulated nearly unidirectional flow (Slider Problem) using boundary conditions and approximations to validate theoretical predictions and demonstrate backflow induction.
Created a CAD model of a 15 cm scale, imported it into Simscale, and defined an external flow domain with air as the working fluid for incompressible flow simulations.
Assigned slip conditions to the top face, symmetry to side faces, pressure inlet/outlet conditions, and ground motion to mimic slider behavior under various velocities.
Assumed an incline angle of 13-14 degrees (h/L ≈ 0.52) and minimized the distance between the scale's right tip and the ground to ensure backflow due to pressure.
Results:
Observed backflow at the scale's top left and pressure gradients beneath, leading to lift forces. Simulated three velocity cases (0.5, 1, and 5 m/s) to analyze Reynolds number effects.
Demonstrated theoretical accuracy by correlating results with Reynolds number assumptions (h/L << 1) and pressure variations (dp/dy = 0), confirming lift force trends proportional to velocity.
Successfully proved the relation between theory and simulation for the Slider Problem by carefully applying approximations, assumptions, and boundary conditions, with steady-state lift force observed at low Reynolds numbers.
