Using SimScale software, Xi pushes the boundaries of what is possible with wind microclimate modelling and assessment. We work closely with SimScale to deliver accurate wind microclimate models to predict the environmental impact that proposed building developments might have on the surrounding areas. Our highly accurate models of real-life spaces ensure suitability for their intended use while meeting the pedestrian comfort and safety criteria.

What is SimScale

SimScale is the world’s first production-ready SaaS application for engineering simulation. The SimScale platform supports five types of physics:

• Solid Mechanics
• Fluid Dynamics
• Thermodynamics
• Particle analysis
• Thermomechanics

The cloud-based SimScale platform allows our clients to virtually test performance, optimise durability or improve the efficiency of their design long before building a physical prototype. The platform combines an easy-to-use interface with a workflow-based approach for performing various analysis types, especially Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and Thermal Simulation. The system is applicable across multiple industries: architecture, engineering, and construction; consumer goods; electronics; energy; aerospace; automotive, and more.

How It works

Users can upload their CAD model and have it displayed in 3D to set up their simulation and interact with it as they would with desktop CAD software. As soon as the simulation is complete, users can access the results on the platform or download them locally. By harnessing the power of the cloud for simulation, SimScale eliminates the hurdles that accompany traditional simulation tools: high installation costs, licensing fees, deployment of high-performance computing hardware, and required updates and maintenance. Users always have the latest version of SimScale.

Using Simscale for Wind Microclimate Modelling

Core to Xi’s wind microclimate modelling is the use of SimScale which employs a GPU-based solver that makes use of the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). Large geometry models of the built environment are processed via the cloud on multiple parallel GPU-based computing resource. This delivers solutions in hours and minutes rather than days and weeks of traditional CFD (computational Fluid Dynamics) solvers. The innovative LBM techniques also allow for transient turbulence results, providing data around wind gusts and unsafe wind conditions.

In the assessment of a new development Xi starts the process by building 3D models of the development site. The models include features in the surrounding city incorporating buildings, topography and porous media such as trees. Depending on the assessment type the appropriate wind conditions for that specific area are applied and Xi can then model the wind conditions around the development. Typically, the wind microclimate will be assessed for pedestrian wind comfort using the Lawson Comfort and Lawson Safety Criteria.

Simscale Benefits

The techniques employed by SimScale’s CFD solvers provide remarkable improvements in solver time versus traditional CFD techniques. Assessing wind conditions in large city models can be 20 to 30 times faster than traditional techniques. This allows Xi to undertake a more thorough analysis: assessing different configurations, mitigation options and solving for greater resolutions of wind directions.

CFD results of wind speeds and wind comfort criteria in coloured heat maps provide a far higher level of detail than traditional point measurement in a wind tunnel. Combined with fast modelling, this approach provides a significant new opportunity in how wind microclimates are reviewed, reducing the time to design and improving the confidence that the eventual design is right.

SimScale and WindModelling Specialists

Our specialised team has extensive experience simulating complex wind microclimate models. By early involvement in a project, we can identify potential issues with pedestrian safety and comfort, suggest realistic solutions and provide support throughout your planning applications.

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