| In this study, a two-dimensional thermodynamic automaton model is reviewed and revised to simulate fluid flow in porous media. Unlike traditional lattice gas models based on a triangular or hexagonal cell, the thermodynamic automaton model is shape independent because it applies probabilistic collision rules. Therefore, a square lattice has been used in two dimensions and a cubic lattice in three dimensions. Temperature and isotropy are naturally maintained in this square model. The simulation results have been verified with theoretical predictions. The three-dimensional thermodynamic automaton model has been used to model both thermal equilibrium state and Darcy flow. Isotropy and temperature remain the internal properties of the model. Simulations of the barometric formula and diffusion in different media indicate that the cubic automaton model can be taken as a useful tool for the study of three-dimensional hydrodynamics. |
