Aerodynamics: How cities affect wind

[upthecreek123]

My project is looking at how wind travels in cities. I took data around my school and analyzed how the layout influenced how wind traveled through my school. I want to apply this to a larger scale such as other schools, malls, and streets like Wilshire Blvd, which act as a wind tunnel. However, I don't know how to present my analysis and apply it to these areas because I cannot collect data in all of these places.

How can I improve my project and what is the best way to present the information? What areas can I expand on to make this project more profound?

[deleted-71882]

Hello upthecreek123,

I think you have the right idea about making multiple measurements. You can't measure everywhere, but measuring the wind in as many different places as you can will allow you to make more general conclusions. Perhaps you could measure around single-family homes and then around larger buildings such as two-story schools.

You should first present your basic data: wind speed, location, all the primary observations. If you have lots of data, you might present most of it in an "Appendix" rather than on your main display. Check the rules for your particular project.

Next you want to derive any general conclusions that are supported by your data such as perhaps, "Wind speeds are higher in XXX locations than in open spaces," Such a conclusion is valid if all or most of your observations show it, not just one instance.

Make your conclusions as general as is supported by your data, but don't conclude something that is not shown by your data.

Relate your research to any other research you find.

Conclude with any ideas for further research and/or recommendations for city layout that your research suggests.

Hope this helps, WW

[upthecreek123]

Thank you very much for your insights!

However, I still have a couple questions.
I used wooden blocks as models for buildings and used a fan. I then selected different spots to test the wind speed. I ran several different trials, and used different arrangements for the the wooden blocks. But since they are all different, I don't know exactly how to organize my data for presentation.
And also, just curious, is there a specific program to create computerized model for the tests i'm running?

[theborg]

Hello upthecreek,

What you've decided to test is in the field of study called fluid dynamics, of which aerodynamics is a subset. Computational Fluid Dynamics are computer based programs used to model these flows. They do exist, but are very expensive and difficult to operate. Probably beyond the resources of most people.

As for laying out your data...good idea modeling with blocks.
Because you have fairly complicated flow that can arise around structures, I would suggest to categorize your "building" types (I.e. large rectangle, small square, asymmetric, etc...) and then place your data in a matrix with building type down the left column and location of measurements across the top row. You may be able to see some trends emerge when you relate shape to location (I.e. leading face, trailing face, side, etc...)

Good luck,
theborg