Modeling & Simulation - July 2019

Overview

The July 2019 Special Report on Modeling & Simulation delves into the transformative impact of simulation technologies in various engineering fields, particularly in the automotive and medical device industries. As reliance on physical prototypes diminishes, the report highlights a significant shift towards virtual testing and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) simulations, driven by advancements in computational power and numerical algorithms.

One of the key themes is the economic advantage of simulation over traditional physical testing. Keith Meintjes, an executive consultant, emphasizes that while physical testing remains essential for validating models and understanding material properties, the costs associated with it are rising at approximately 7% annually. In contrast, the cost of computing is decreasing rapidly, following Moore’s Law, which predicts that computing power will double approximately every two years. This disparity suggests that simulation will become increasingly cost-effective, offering a 1,000-fold comparative advantage over physical testing in the coming decade.

The report also discusses the evolution of numerical simulation capabilities, which have improved significantly over the years. The combined rate of performance increase in computing has been staggering, allowing engineers to solve complex technical and scientific problems that were previously out of reach. This progress enables the development of accurate multiphysics models that consider various operating conditions and physical effects, facilitating better design and optimization of processes and devices.

In the medical device sector, multiphysics modeling is particularly crucial. The report cites examples where engineers must account for interrelated physical phenomena, such as blood flow dynamics and the compliance of blood vessels, to design effective medical devices. This interconnected approach is essential for innovations in bioengineering and medical technology.

The report also touches on the concept of topology optimization, which has gained traction across multiple industries. By leveraging simulation, engineers can reduce prototyping costs and accelerate time-to-market for new products. This is especially relevant in sectors like automotive engineering, where rapid advancements in technology necessitate efficient design processes.

Furthermore, the report outlines various advanced simulation techniques and applications, including computational fluid dynamics, finite element analysis, and model-based simulation. These tools are instrumental in enhancing engine performance and optimizing designs for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other complex systems.

Overall, the Special Report underscores the critical role of simulation in modern engineering practices. It highlights how the integration of advanced computational tools and collaborative approaches is pushing the boundaries of technology, leading to improved business outcomes and innovative solutions across industries. As the landscape of engineering continues to evolve, the reliance on simulation is expected to grow, paving the way for more efficient and effective design processes.