Co-Curricular: Computational Fluid Dynamics, Colorful Fluid Dynamics, and the Differences Between Them
A look inside the Spring 2022-23 Computational Fluid Dynamics, Colorful Fluid Dynamics, and the Differences Between Them co-curricular:
"The main purpose of this aptly named co-curricular was to identify as a group the many simplifications, assumptions, intricacies, and limitations associated with computer-based flow predictions, and understand how to select the many simulation parameters to obtain meaningful results - whether applied to turbines, cars, or novel underwater vehicles." - Ivo Nedyalkov, faculty sponsor.
Description: By completing this co-curricular, participants:
- Learn the basics of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
- Get to perform simple CFD simulations using state of the art software
- Critically evaluate how accurately a CFD simulation reflects reality
- Explore the use of CFD in art - and can explore CFD further on their own
Computational Fluid Dynamics... consists of approximately seven 1-hour sessions, most of which take place during the first half of the semester. Students also devote approximately 5 to 10 hours prior to the first two sessions to get the most out of this experience.
Professor Ivo Nedyalkov points to the computer screen during a Spring 2023 session of the co-curricular, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Colorful Fluid Dynamics, and the Differences Between Them. Photo by Mira Chew '26.
"The co-curricular also featured a captivating session with computational artist Mark Stock, who shared the rich history of the intersection between art and engineering. Through his work, we gained a unique perspective on the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in artistic creations, uncovering the captivating narratives behind his masterpieces," adds Nedyalkov.
Faculty/Staff Sponsor(s): Professor Ivo Nedyalkov
Mark Stock, computational artist, speaks at Olin in Spring 2023, sharing with students in the co-curricular the rich history of the intersection between art and engineering. Photo by Mira Chew '26.
Co-Curriculars at Olin are opportunities to explore non-credit activities combining fun and intellectual awareness, they are typically scheduled for a limited time (e.g., on semester), are led by staff or faculty members or by a student working in concert with faculty/staff member, and are funded by Student Affairs and Resources.
They differ from curricular offerings in that they are not graded and attendance is not strictly enforced. They differ from extra-curricular activities in that they have an intellectual component, faculty/staff leadership and limited lifespan.
Students can register for co-curricular offerings during the class registration process.