Abstract

LEON MENDEZ, Alcides  and  HERRERA TORNES, Ulises. Application of visual models in teaching and research. RIHA [online]. 2012, vol.33, n.1, pp. ¨1-10. ISSN 1680-0338.

Teaching in Hydraulics is based on theoretical equations and empirical solutions given by researchers. Also results from physical and mathematical models are used. But not always flow behavior can be clearly visualized or, as with physical models, specialized laboratories are required. Therefore, a tool is needed to reproduce, in quality and quantity, the movement of fluids across different types of conduits. This paper deals, for the first time in Cuba, with the application of visual models to visualize flow behavior under different situations. By applying the visual modeling software Flow3D, solutions to flow problems in channels and pipes can be visually observed, thus enhancing the teacher´s action. Also student comprehension is highly improved as he can watch different alternatives of flow under various working conditions.

Keywords : visual models; flow simulation; teaching of hydraulics; mathematical models.

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