Case Study: University of Kiel advances non-invasive dolphin tag design with Tecplot 360

Researchers use Tecplot 360 and CFD to Determine Feasibility of Hydrodynamically-attached Biotelemetry Tags

The University of Kiel, through Dr. Vadim Pavlov's research team, sought a less invasive method for attaching biotelemetry tags to dolphins. The existing methods, using pins that pierce the dorsal fin, cause pain, risk infection, and can alter the animal's behavior, which biases research data. The team aimed to develop a hydrodynamic tag that would stay attached by water force alone, using Tecplot 360 for analysis.

Using Tecplot 360 CFD visualization software, the team was able to analyze and visualize complex flow data around a dolphin's fin. This allowed them to confirm their hypothesis that a hydrodynamically-designed tag could be securely held in place, minimizing drag and impact on the dolphin. As a result, Tecplot 360 enabled the crucial first step toward a future of humane, non-invasive animal research that yields more reliable scientific data.

University of Kiel

Vadim Pavlov

University of Kiel