Research

Basic techniques

From MRI/CT images to computer models

The essential precursor to any experimental or computational modelling of a flow is a definition of the bounding surface of the flow domain. Since much of our work is concerned with modelling flows in-vivo, we need techniques to create and to analyse appropriate geometries. The ability either to replicate in-vivo geometries for computational or experimental studies or to provide well defined simplifications is essential. Consequently an important central area of our research is the development and   application of techniques for CT/MRI scan image data translation to a surface definition, geometry analysis and comparison. A general overview of this process can be found under the page ImageToCFD. Research topics include:

• Implicit function surface definition
• Flow sensitivity to thresholding and smoothing
• Image registration
• Morphological analysis

Computational Methods

A key activity of the group is the development and application of advanced numerical modelling techniques to simulate physiological flows. Research activities include:

• High-order spectral/hp element methods for computation of flow and transport 
• High-order particle tracking
• Local and global stability analysis
• High-order mesh generation
• Reduced multiscale modelling of arterial networks   
• Vortical structure identification and modelling
• Simulation of magnetic resonance imaging
• Computation of unsteady Fokker-Planck and Smoluchowski equations for stochastic microswimming

Experimental Methods

• Rapid prototype creation of replica geometries for PIV and MRI
• PIV and PTV imaging
• Accuracy of MR flow mapping

Application Areas

Cardiovascular flows

• Arterial pulse propagation 
• Helical bypass grafts    
• Coronary flow measurement and modelling
• Stenotic flows
• Vascular prosthetic devices
• Fluid-structure interaction of heart valves

Respiratory flows

• Nasal flow and transport
• Rhinological surgical planning

microorganism suspensions & active flow

• Dispersion and mixing in microalgae suspensions for bioreactor design
• Collective dynamics, instabilities and pattern formation in microswimmer suspension
• Microalgae in turbulent flows
• Bioremediation and carbon sequestration