An overview of recent applications of computational modelling in neonatology

This paper reviews some of our recent applications of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to model heat and mass transfer problems in neonatology and investigates the major heat and mass-transfer mechanisms taking place in medical devices, such as incubators, radiant warmers and oxygen hoods. It is shown that CFD simulations are very flexible tools that can take into account all modes of heat transfer in assisting neonatal care and improving the design of medical devices

Investigation into air distribution systems and thermal environment control in chilled food processing facilities

Air flow distribution in chilled food facilities plays a critical role not only in maintaining the required food products temperature but also because of its impact on the facility energy consumption and CO2 emissions. This paper presents an investigation of the thermal environment in existing food manufacturing facilities, with different air distribution systems including supply/return diffusers and fabric ducts, by means of both in-situ measurements and 3D CFD simulations. Measurements and CFD simulations showed that the fabric duct provides a better environment in the processing area in terms of even and low air flow if compared to that with the diffusers. Moreover, temperature stratification was identified as a key factor to be improved to reduce the energy use for the space cooling. Further modelling proved that air temperature stratification improves by relocating the fabric ducts at a medium level. This resulted in a temperature gradient increase up to 4.1 °C in the unoccupied zone