Numerical simulation of flow field around a cow using 3-D body-fitted coordinate system

A 3-D theoretical model that characterizes the flow field around a single cow or multiple cows was developed. A general computer code that simulates the flow field that takes into account the shape of a cow and the boundary conditions of the enclosure was developed. A system of visualization of flow field that provides theoretical basis for the study of heat and mass transfer between a cow and its environment was developed. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed to determine the effect of cow orientation with respect to direction of airflow on convective heat exchange between the cow and its environment. The direction of air movement is not an important factor in influencing convective heat transfer between a cow and its environment. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.