WindStation

WindStation is a cool tool that helps you figure out wind flow and heat transfer using computer-made topography. It's super handy for checking out how wind currents move around obstacles, like buildings or hills, and even looks into things like turbulence and thermal effects.

Features of WindStation

This software uses a special boundary-fitted coordinate system, so it can handle tricky landscapes with all sorts of features. It works with both bluff and porous obstacles. Plus, it runs calculations based on advanced 3D Navier-Stokes air flow algorithms. For estimating turbulence, it uses the k-e model, which is pretty neat!

Understanding Variables

The program takes into account different variables in its equations like terrain type, elevation, roughness, and other obstacles that come from ground shear stress modeling. There's even an energy equation that helps you model atmospheric stability.

Heat Transfer Calculations

On top of that, WindStation lets you calculate heat transfer at ground level by estimating temperature imposition or heat flux imposition. You can even simulate porous obstacles by including source terms for more accuracy.

User-Friendly Interface

This software is pretty easy to use! It has an intuitive interface where you load your terrain or obstacle models right into the workspace. The menus are nicely laid out on the sides—there's a column on the left for non-permanent menus and toolbars at the top and right that always show useful info.

Window Management Tips

A little tip: keep the main window maximized to access all functions easily since resizing might hide some buttons.

Customizable Wind Domain Calculation

You can also calculate wind domains by inputting data about boundaries, horizontal/vertical spacing, and domain extension. Plus, it's great for customizing your analysis area! Just load up details about elevation, roughness, surface temperature, and heat flux.

Create Your Wind Stations

You can generate wind stations too! Just enter their definitions such as location, boundary layer height, directionality, and two reading slots. Want to check it out? You can download WindStation here!