Computational Fluid Dynamics - A Stepping-Stone of MULTIPHYSICS

Abstract

Fluids have been around us for as long as we know; they have enabled us to cross the oceans, ride the winds, shorten distances, and much more. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has extended our understanding of fluids. Even to this day, the analytical solution of fundamental equations of fluid mechanics remains a million-dollar award problem (Clay Mathematics Institute). As engineers, we’ll leave that to mathematicians to claim, but that does not mean that we cannot enjoy the power offered by these equations. Smart numerical techniques developed over years, such as discretization and time-stepping methods, have enabled us to solve them with the help of computers. With the increase of computing power, CFD applications are ever-growing, and literally and figuratively, the sky is the limit.

After an introduction from the speaker, the webinar focuses mainly on the evolution of CFD and discusses the historical researchers who have contributed to its development. This is followed by a word of caution concerning numerical modelling and the topic of colourful fluid dynamics is discussed.

In relatively recent times, CFD is being solved coupled with other physical equations, e.g., thermal conduction (heat equation), electromagnetics (Maxwell's equations), structures (Hooke's law), and more. This gave birth to the field we call Multiphysics, which can be imagined as a coupled mathematical world, where many overlapping and interactive problems of physics are being solved on the fundamental level.

The webinar features inspiring examples from the speaker’s past work that highlight the application of CFD as a stepping-stone for Multiphysics. The examples are: micro-fluidic valve, a collaborative project of NUST and CALTECH; CFD DEM simulations of two phase flow in fluidised beds, a collaborative project of the University of Cambridge and ETH ZURICH; multiphysics investigation of composite shell structures subjected to water shock wave impact in petroleum industry, funded by Norwegian Research Council, in collaboration with Lille University; applied investigation of viscosity-density fluid sensors based on torsional resonators, partially funded by Innosuisse - Swiss Innovation Agency, in collaboration with RHEONICS GmbH and Zurich University of Applied Sciences; to determine the sensation of ‘cold’ via conjugate heat transfer, a collaborative project with WINDTECH AS.