Parallel Stabilized Finite Element Methods for Aero-, Hemo-, and Hydrodynamics
Figure 1: Streamlines in twin extruder screws.
The objective of this project is the continued development of effective simulation methods for the unsteady flows of fluids. The methods are based on the finite element technique using stabilized formulations. We use iterative solution strategies to solve nonlinearities and discretize the time by using either implicit time-stepping algorithms or space-time finite elements. These methods enable simulations that include rotating, translating, and deforming domains.
The main areas where novel computational methods are being developed are:
- simulation of rapidly translating and/or rotating boundaries; the Shear-Slip Mesh Update Method (SSMUM) and the multiple reference frames (MRF) method,
- simulation of flows of microstructured liquids; the effect of flow on the microstructure in case of blood,
- simulation of non-Newtonian fluids,
- simulation of two-phase and free-surface flows,
- fluid-structure interaction,
- shape optimization of complex geometries; shear-thinning fluids and free-surface filling processes, and
- simulation of solidification.
Figure 2: Flow simulation in an axial blood pump.