Geometry based method for simulating fluid flow through heterogeneous porous media

Abstract

A profile of porosities and permeabilities calculated from several sample volumes in a system can speed up computational fluid dynamics (CFDs). Heterogeneous fluid flow paths can be calculation intense, limiting the accuracy of fluid-path models. Further, allowing a user to define a number of sample volumes in a model system allows pre-calculation of porosities and permeabilities for use in Navier-Stokes formulas for modeling fluid flow and gives the user control over calculation time and accuracy. This is helpful, for example, in modeling endovascular interventions where fluid dynamics are determinative in the efficacy or method of treatment for various vascular disorders, such as aneurysms, and heart disease. This is also beneficial in other healthcare contexts, like blood filters, embolic gels, endografts, web devices, and atrial appendage occluders, among others. This disclosure is also relevant to fluid dynamics generally, such as in consumer products; and oil and gas exploration, recovery, and production.