The utilisations of engineering solid mechanics and computational fluid dynamics in art and design

Liu, Han (2024). The utilisations of engineering solid mechanics and computational fluid dynamics in art and design. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis presents a PhD study that explores the utilisations of engineering solid mechanics and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in art, engineering and design. In this study, three approaches are presented: (1) the use of Non-uniform Rational B-spline (NURBS) and CFD in art appreciation and art creation; (2) the rigidity of NURBS and its utilisation in Chinese calligraphy; and (3) the practical applications in product and visual design.

The combination of NURBS and CFD can accurately and conveniently draw streamlines to reflect original shapes in art and closely analyse existing ones. Raphael's oil painting Jacob's Encounter with Rachel and Ingres' La Source were analysed using mathematical and engineering techniques with Computer-Aided Design (CAD), CFD and NURBS as tools. In the analysis, 2D scenes are converted into a 3D model based on perspective projection and CAD. Then the fluid flows are simulated using the Volume of Fluid (VoF) method. The discrepancy in the artworks is shown in the simulation results. In a sketch of a painting, a hypothetical scene with a fluid flow is simulated by CFD, and the streamline of fluid flow is expressed by the NURBS. The method provides a reliable reference for art appreciation and art creation, especially for realistic artworks.

The research has also explored the rigidity of NURBS mathematically and used it in the study of Chinese calligraphy. The cubic NURBS and beam bending are connected using the dimensionless quantity. The connection represents the rigidity of NURBS and explains why cubic NURBS makes the curve or outline look powerful and soft. Based on the study of the NURBS curve and its rigidity, a piece of calligraphy artwork by Ji Zhao (Song Huizong) is analysed. The results show a surprising similarity between the strokes in the calligraphy and cubic NURBS curves. That means Huizong's calligraphy -Shou Jin Ti- looks slim but strong and powerful because the strokes have a certain rigidity and toughness. The research additionally provides a new approach to guiding artists in drawing a powerful and energetic line more skilfully. This enables people to improve their understanding of and draw the core of Chinese calligraphy with an academic approach.

Some practical cases demonstrate how product and visual design can benefit from the proposed engineering approach using NURBS and CFD. As the samples for product design, pipes, the inlet air duct of TREx, and the sedan design are discussed. One significant result shows that the working efficiency can be stable if the shape of the pipe is made of NURBS, even if there is a 40°change in angle. The inlet air duct is redesigned using NURBS and CFD, resulting in an easy approach to designing the shape of some components, and making the product meet the functional requirements at the same time. The application of NURBS and CFD also provides a convenient guideline for sedan design. It is shown that the profile of the sedan drawn by cubic NURBS easily meets both the functional requirements and the general aesthetic and reduces the drag by over 20%, compared to that of a simple rounded corner design. For the cases of visual design, the redesign of the casing of TREx and a poster design about TREx are discussed. The redesign of the casing represents the specialisations and technical advantages of TREx, including being environmentally friendly, high-performance, and innovative. A poster showing TREx's technical advantages of energy saving and environmental protection, designed for an international conference, has been highly evaluated by experts in popular design competitions. NURBS plays a significant role in both cases.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):