VirtualDrift: Particle Drift Simulator (snow and sand)

Watch as snow accumulates around the buildings

Using state-of-the-art computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques, this numerical simulation technique models windborne particle transport, accumulation and erosion around complex structures. Such simulations are used to create realistic snowdrift or sand accumulation patterns around a building structure to assist decision making during conceptual or final design phases.

Similar to a water flume simulation, the Particle Drift Simulator can assist in the identification of critical snowdrift patterns for structural design, as well as identifying areas where snowdrifts will impact normal building functions and pedestrian activity. Sand deposition around buildings, the impact of windborne sand on pedestrians and the abrasion of building facades can be reviewed using the Particle Drift Simulator.