Abstract
Flow patterns in a dome for an astronomical observatory are investigated numerically based on a finite difference procedure which is characterized by an equi-spaced rectangular grid system and a masking technique. The computed results under various conditions are visualized, by which the structure of the flow field in the enclosure is well understood. This makes some effects to 'flushing characteristics' clear, namely, the inclination angle of the telescope, wind directions and the shape of the enclosure. Furthermore, qualitative estimation of the effect of the incoming flow profile is performed. The results also demonstrate the effectiveness of the present approach.
