Incorporating Computational Fluid Dynamics into the Preliminary Design Cycle

Abstract

Industry is constantly seeking ways to bring new or derivative products to market in minimal time at minimal cost. To accomplish this, industry has adopted Computer Aided Engineering tools that perform structural, flow, manufacturing, and cost analysis. One of these tools industry often struggles with in the preliminary design phase is Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Some of the challenges presented by CFD are the time required to create a CAD (air solid) model, generate a valid grid for analysis, obtain a solution, post-process results, and review the results. We present an approach that reduces the time to go from a concept to a solution ready for review. This approach addresses how to build a CAD model for use in downstream applications, automate the grid generation process, and automate the post-processing. In addition, it addresses how to automate results documentation with a Design Review Tool. This approach will enable the aerospace, automotive, and other industries to use CFD to more effectively explore the design space in the development of new and derivative products.

Keywords:

• CFD
• automation
• parametrics