Optimization of Environmental Control in Smart Silkworm Houses using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Multi-Physics Simulation
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Abstract
This research presents the design of the internal environment of a silkworm-rearing greenhouse using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimize temperature, humidity, and ventilation control for tropical climates. A three-dimensional model of a 4 × 6 × 3 meter greenhouse was created and analyzed with OpenFOAM, considering air flow, heat transfer, and moisture distribution under climate conditions representative of Thailand. Simulation results show that the proposed design approach reduces internal temperature variability, minimizes stagnant-air zones, and improves humidity uniformity compared with a conventional greenhouse—reducing cumulative temperature by 8.2%, achieving a 9.1% improvement in moisture distribution uniformity, and yielding a mean air-density difference of 0.9% between simulation and measurements. In addition, appropriate placement of openings and ventilation rates enhanced airflow performance without creating localized strong drafts. Results from this study demonstrate the potential of applying CFD modeling to the design of agricultural buildings that can effectively control the environment and accommodate climate change in tropical regions.
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Copyright belongs to Srinakharinwirot University Engineering Journal
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