Project Lead(s): Hanif Montazeri
Issue
In the developing world, 2.6 billion people lack access to adequate sanitation facilities and the design of sanitation systems requires the knowledge of the local soil, water quality and environmental conditions.
Solution
The VisuFLUID project sought to develop computer simulation software for the rapid, extensive design of sanitation systems for developing regions.
Computer simulations present a proven method to reduce the time and cost of designing and engineering systems. To develop the software product, three key activities were required:
1. Researching different sanitation facility technologies, solutions and techniques in India. Waste Stabilization Ponds (WSPs) are simple and efficient systems for waste water treatment in developing countries, especially in tropical climates. WSP systems include anaerobic, facultative and maturation ponds. A primary advantage of this approach is its low investment, operating and maintenance costs.
2. Developing mathematical formulations for heat transport, rain effects, algal biomass concentration, bacterial growth, dissolved oxygen concentration and ammonium nitrogen.
3. The implementation of the mathematical equations in the computational software framework.
Many computer algorithms had to be developed to implement the mathematical formulations.
Outcome
The project was successful in developing a number of computer simulation techniques to reduce the time and cost of designing sanitation facilities.
A main accomplishment was the development and implementation of the mathematical framework and computer algorithms necessary to carry out the project, given that there were no existing commercial products available.
The second-most important achievement of the project was communication of the concept to local academic, governmental and industry personnel in India.
This facilitated the building of relationships with potential businesses to sponsor the next stage of the project and the establishment of a technical core of skilled individuals.
The most sensitive of the algorithms will be maintained as trade secrets and not be published at this time. The intent is to pursue Phase II Transition To Scale support, as well as potential private investors, to support the project.