Line of Fluid and Solid Dynamics
The line encompasses the use of techniques related to scientific computing, as well as experimental analyses, focused on basic, applied research, and innovation in Mechanical Engineering, involving fluid flow and the mechanical behavior of solids. Due to the mechanical interaction of fluids and solids, basic research in Continuum Mechanics and applied research and innovation in Fluid-Structure Interaction problems are premised. The following topics are addressed: mathematical modeling of fluid and solid dynamics problems, development of numerical and experimental methods, fluid-structure interaction problems, and other related topics.
Research Projects:
1) Acoustics of Rooms: Influence and modeling of the position of sound absorption materials on the acoustic characteristics of classrooms
Abstract: The design and adaptation of classrooms with good acoustic quality are essential for learning, speech intelligibility, and teacher vocal health. Predictive study of acoustic characteristics of the environment helps in making changes and envisioning the best conditions for optimal acoustic parameters. Prediction tools are based on numerical and statistical acoustic modeling, where the main variables are geometry and sound absorption material. In this context, statistical acoustics does not consider the position of the absorption material in the environment, limiting itself to the percentage of area with acoustic absorption. On the other hand, numerical modeling considers the spatial distribution of sound absorption material, but highlights the high computational cost, limitations to the geometry of the environment, and the frequency range of interest. In the scenario of the position of the sound absorption material, it is believed that the arrangement presents deterministic factors in acoustic quality, as seen in the layout of auditoriums and concert halls. Therefore, the research project proposes to analyze the influence of sound absorption material on the acoustic quality of classrooms. For this purpose, the experimental methodology laid out in ISO 3382 is used, aiming to create a predictive metamodel that considers the position of the absorption material, as well as to improve numerical models.
2) Evaluation of the efficiency of using ultraviolet light C (254 nm) and air disinfection in microbiological control of dental offices
Abstract: Physical phenomena related to fluid flows are the subject of study in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), such as air mass movement, temperature changes, rainfall, irrigation, compressed air, and others. Researchers in this field seek to represent, through mathematical and numerical modeling, the movement of various fluids, thus enabling the development and optimization of equipment. Among the wide applicability of CFD in this project, numerical techniques are intended to be used to simulate flows from different air conditioning units installed in different environments, aiming to understand the physical phenomenon, identify air recirculation regions, and propose adjustments to the environment to ensure the best indoor air quality. This study is necessary because proper air renewal in enclosed spaces reduces the contamination of COVID-19 and other microorganisms, ensuring greater safety for people and medical equipment in hospitals. The study begins with an understanding of VAC installation and maintenance standards, moves on to geometric and mathematical modeling of the environment using CFD, and simultaneously proposes structural and architectural changes to mitigate problems in air renewal and energy efficiency, especially of air conditioning equipment, optimized so that the environment is adequately cooled, avoiding the presence of recirculation. In the end, a methodological procedure and a computational tool are expected to help designers size and install air conditioning units in positions that promote the best air renewal while minimizing energy consumption. It is worth noting that dissemination will occur through elucidative and educational activities, integrated with research to integrate the results into society.
3) Development of high-order convergence numerical processes and low-cost experimental processes for the study of wind flow over terrain: estimation of wind potential (R&D FURNAS)
Abstract: The constant pursuit of reducing environmental impact and the increasing legislation aimed at decreasing energy generation from fossil fuels are the main motivations behind this proposal, as it seeks to contribute to the wind energy generation market. The fundamental objective is to develop processes (numerical and experimental) for estimating wind potential based on the study of wind flow over a given terrain. With these processes, the aim is not only to provide FURNAS with tools to assist in land acquisition and wind turbine installation, thereby increasing the company's competitiveness in the national and international wind energy market, but also to train and educate specific human resources to develop wind energy-related technology. According to data released by ANEEL, Brazil has faced three crises in the electricity sector in recent decades, culminating in energy rationing, particularly the largest one that occurred from June 2001 to February 2002 (ANEEL, 2007), and the 2014 drought that compromised the country's energy and water supply. Each situation has brought lessons and shown possible ways to mitigate energy supply threats. Additionally, the greenhouse effect, consequent global warming, and the socio-environmental awareness of the population are driving the creation of resolutions and laws that reduce or even prohibit the use of fossil fuel-based energy generation technologies and encourage the generation of clean and renewable energy. Thus, electric companies worldwide are motivated to invest in clean and renewable energy sources. This proposal aims to develop software based on highly accurate numerical methods calibrated with specific experimental procedures, which will be incorporated into FURNAS to provide legitimacy and savings in land acquisition and wind turbine installation.
4) Systematization of the project of a radio-controlled aircraft: Aerodesign
Abstract: The main objective of this project is to systematize the production of a radio-controlled cargo aircraft. To achieve this, it is necessary to understand how aerodynamic forces interact with the aircraft structure, with one of these forces being lift, which must be generated sufficiently to keep the aircraft airborne. However, it is known that increasing lift also increases drag, which is responsible for fuel consumption. Therefore, there must be a compromise between both forces, and this optimization process is achieved by altering the wing geometry, proposing new airfoil shapes. The greater the load to be carried, the greater the lift force required, to which the wing and fuselage of the structure are subjected. This force, along with the mass of the loaded cargo, causes wing deformation, producing bending and torsional forces. Consequently, the internal structure of the wing must be designed to withstand these forces without failure. At the same time, they also need to be lightweight and slender to allow more space for carrying useful cargo. Thus, projects of truss structures, with different profiles, and primarily using new aerospace composite materials, are systematically proposed.
5) CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN HYDROGEN AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES (CEHTES)
Abstract: The global energy transition process over the past decade, in response to climate change and geopolitical issues, has been characterized by the increasing participation of renewable energy sources (with low or zero carbon emissions) in the global energy matrix, such as solar and wind energy, and by processes of decentralization of energy production, bringing generation closer to demand, thereby reducing distribution losses. The diffusion of these sources has created economic opportunities for the exploitation of a plentiful energy vector in nature, which, however, requires energy to be obtained: hydrogen. Due to its favorable geographical position for solar incidence and its significant wind potential, in addition to abundant other natural resources such as water and biomass, Brazil is positioned to become a powerhouse in hydrogen and clean energies. Given this auspicious scenario, this proposal aims to establish the Center of Excellence in Hydrogen and Sustainable Energy Technologies (CEHTES) in the state of Goiás, with the objective of planning and executing multidisciplinary R&D projects in hydrogen and renewable energies in collaboration with companies, governments, and research institutions, bringing autonomy and readiness to address the socioeconomic and environmental challenges of the present and future.