Modeling & Similarity/Similitude

• In order to perform constructive experimentation in the field of fluid mechanics we need to

replicate the actual physical system (prototype) by a scaled down or a scaled up physical
model.
• Modeling and similarity than allows us to predict the
behavior of the actual object (the prototype) by conducting
experiments on the model inside a wind tunnel or a water
tunnel. Flow of red blood cells ~ 8μm
Model Requirements:
• In order to built a correct Scaled down model of a building
model of a real world
prototype we need to
achieve three kinds of
similarity b/w the model
and the prototype Scaled up models
1) Geometric Similarity (Biological systems)
2) Kinematic Similarity Scaled down model of a dam
3) Dynamic Similarity
True Models = All similarity
conditions are satisfied
Distorted Models = One or two
similarity conditions are not satisfied.
Diffusion in alveoli ~200 μm Scaled down model of a boat
1) Geometric Similarity
Will exist b/w the model and the prototype if:
•The shape of the scaled model and the prototype remains the same.
• The ratio of all corresponding dimensions in the model and the prototype remains equal
(even the surface roughness and protrusions if any)
Mathematically a geometric length scale b/w Where,
a model and a prototype can be defined as L = Length variable
follows: Subscript m = model
Lm/Lp = ʎL Subscript p = prototype
ʎL = Length scale.
Other scales can also be defined such as
Length scale b/w a model and a prototype
velocity scale, density scale, viscosity
may be defined as 1:10 or 1/10 scale model
flow rate scale & acceleration scale e.t.c
(means that model is one-tenth the size of
2) Kinematic Similarity the prototype)
Will exist b/w the model and the prototype if: True models have only one length scale.
• The paths of moving particles are geometrically similar. (similar streamlines)
• The ratios of the velocities of the particles are same.
• It also means the similarity of time. In general all sorts of similarity b/w the
model & the prototype will be achieved
3) Dynamic Similarity
if all their Pi- terms are equal.
Will exist b/w the model and the prototype if:
• The ratios of all forces (pressure, inertia, viscous, surface tension e.t.c) in the model and the
prototype are the same. Dynamic similarity also demands the kinematic & geometric similarity.