Integrating a computational fluid dynamics simulation and visualization with a 3D virtual walkthrough - A case study of Putrajaya

Abstract

This paper discusses the possibilities of applying Virtual Reality techniques within an analysis and presentations of the results and visualisation output of a computational fluid dynamics simulation study of an urban master plan proposal with a focus on semi-outdoor spaces in selected areas. The environmental performance analysis was conducted to make an assessment in terms of air flow with the aim to enhance thermal comfort and predict the outcome of extreme wind events in the locality. This includes the investigation of the occurrence of wind-tunneling phenomena linked to pedestrian discomfort. The numerical and visual output of the simulation was used as a framework to integrate environmental performance data with a walkthrough of pedestrian walkways in selected areas in Precinct 4 of the Putrajaya Master plan. Hence the paper is divided into two aspects i.e. The results of the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis and an example of how the data or graphical output is integrated with a virtual walkthrough of the selected 'parcel' or area.