Author(s): Emad Habib; Witold F. Krajewski

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Abstract: The present work reports on the application of a computational fluid dynamics-based method as a tool to improve the aerodynamic design of rainfall measurement devices. The focus is on a new instrument, a two-dimensional video disdrometer that provides information about raindrop size distribution. The distorted wind field around and inside the instrument's body is simulated using a three-dimensional numerical model. A modified geometry of the instrument, suggested for operational purposes, is tested numerically. Trajectories of raindrops are simulated to investigate the wind effect on the catchment efficiency of the instrument. A stochastic Lagrangian particle-tracking model that accounts for the turbulence effect is examined. General guidelines related to aerodynamic aspects of the design of in-situ rainfall measuring devices are discussed.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00221680109499846

Year: 2001