Case Study: The University Museum, The University of Tokyo uncovers ancient organism behavior with Hexagon Cradle CFD

How they lived fluid analysis uncovers the biophysiological nature of ancient organisms

The University Museum at the University of Tokyo sought to move beyond the limitations of traditional qualitative paleontology methods. Their challenge was to quantitatively uncover the biophysiological nature and living functions of ancient organisms, such as brachiopods and trilobites, from unmoving fossils. To achieve this, project assistant professor Yuta Shiino turned to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation software from Hexagon.

Using Hexagon's SC/Tetra CFD software, Dr. Shiino performed innovative fluid analyses that revealed previously unknown biological mechanisms. For brachiopods, the solution demonstrated how a spiral swirling water flow enabled effective feeding and respiration. For a species of trilobite, the analysis proved a large fork-shaped organ stabilized swimming and aided in food filtration. These quantitative results resolved long-standing scientific debates and were so significant they were incorporated into a paleontology textbook. Hexagon's accurate software and exceptional technical support were essential to this pioneering research, which has opened new avenues for understanding evolution and the potential for paleontological biomimicry.

The University Museum, The University of Tokyo

Yuta Shiino

Project Assistant Professor