MEEN4002W

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) module, students will be able to;

1. Understand the fundamentals of fluid dynamics and governing equations
2. Apply numerical methods to solve partial differential equations
3. Setup and run CFD simulations using commercial software
4. Solve real-world fluid dynamics problems
5. Understand and apply turbulence models
6. Optimize CFD simulations for accuracy and efficiency
7. Interpret and present CFD results
8. Apply CFD to multidisciplinary engineering applications

Indicative Module Content:

This Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) course covers key theoretical and practical topics that provide a comprehensive foundation in fluid flow analysis and numerical simulation. The main topics include:

1. Introduction to CFD:
Overview of CFD applications in engineering.
Introduction to numerical methods and the role of CFD in solving fluid flow problems.

2.Governing Equations of Fluid Dynamics:
Continuity equation, momentum equations (Navier-Stokes), and energy equation.
Classification of partial differential equations (elliptic, parabolic, hyperbolic).

3.Finite Difference Method (FDM):
Discretization of governing equations using FDM.
Application of FDM to solve simple fluid flow problems.

4. Finite Volume Method (FVM):
Introduction to FVM and its application in CFD.
Volume integrals and conservation laws applied to control volumes.
Solution of flow problems using FVM.

5.Turbulence Modeling:
Basics of turbulence and Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations.
Common turbulence models (e.g., k-ε, k-ω) and their application in CFD.

6. CFD Software:
Introduction to professional and cloud-based CFD software.
Setting up simulations, meshing, boundary conditions, and solver settings.
Post-processing and analyzing simulation results.

7. Practical Applications:
Internal Flows: Pipe flow, flow through bends.
External Flows: Flow over airfoils, cylinders, and Ahmed’s body.
Heat Transfer: Buoyant cavity, convective heat transfer in heat exchangers.

These topics provide a strong theoretical foundation and hands-on experience, enabling students to tackle real-world CFD problems effectively.

Student Effort Hours:

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:

This Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) module employs a variety of teaching and learning methods to ensure that students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key approaches include:

1. Lectures:
Structured lectures provide foundational knowledge on fluid dynamics, numerical methods, and CFD principles.
Interactive discussions will be encouraged to clarify theoretical concepts and explore their real-world applications.

2. Active/Task-Based Learning:
Students will engage in hands-on tasks using professional CFD software to set up, run, and analyze simulations.
Task-based assignments will reinforce key concepts and develop problem-solving skills in real-world CFD applications.

3. Lab Work:
Dedicated lab sessions allow students to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in lectures to practical CFD simulations.
Lab work will focus on solving problems such as internal and external flows, heat transfer, and turbulence modeling using industry-standard tools.

4. Enquiry and Problem-Based Learning:
Students will be presented with complex fluid dynamics scenarios and tasked with designing and executing CFD simulations to solve them.
Problem-based learning encourages critical thinking, creativity, and application of CFD methods to practical engineering challenges.

5. Peer and Group Work:
Collaborative group projects will be used in labs and assignments to foster teamwork and peer learning.
Group discussions and peer feedback will be encouraged to enhance understanding and encourage knowledge sharing.

6. Reflective Learning:
Students will reflect on their simulation results and learning experiences, critically evaluating their approaches and understanding of CFD.
Reflective learning will be incorporated into project reports and post-lab discussions to encourage continuous improvement.

8. Case-Based Learning:
Real-world case studies, such as the aerodynamic analysis of vehicles or heat transfer in HVAC systems, will be used to contextualize the learning process.
These case studies will demonstrate the relevance of CFD in engineering and industry.

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.

Module Requisites and Incompatibles

Additional Information:
This module is delivered overseas and is not available to students based at the UCD Belfield or UCD Blackrock campuses


 

Assessment Strategy

 

Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Online automated feedback
• Peer review activities
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

1. Group/class feedback, will be provided to students in-class post-assessment. 2. Online automated feedback will be available to students for activities carried out online. 3. Self-assessment activities: Correct solutions or reference answers will be provided to students to critically evaluate their own work. 4. Peer review activities: During in-class problem solving sessions students will be provided with opportunities to review the work of their peers.