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Fluid Dynamic Simulations

    Within EPFL-Alinghi project, development of computational methods to simulate aero-hydrodynamic flow conditions.

    A yacht’s performance is directly linked to fluid dynamics. How will the wind and the waves impact on the boat’s performance? What are the best designs to improve speed?

    Until recently the best way to test a boat’s performance was to expose it to realistic flow situations in wind tunnels or tanks. Today, less expensive computational methods are used to simulate aerodynamic and hydrodynamic flow conditions.

    Computational Fluid and Structural Dynamics (CFSD) provides a mathematical answer to the problem, as it is able to simulate a wide range of flow conditions around a computerized version of the yacht. Although racing conditions certainly include unpredictable turbulent flow, solutions have been found to provide a model comparable to experimental measurements.

    The EPFL Chair of Modelling and Scientific Computing (CMCS) is working to optimize this approach. It is currently investigating a new process to test a maximum of shapes in record time so as to allow the design team to identify the best model.

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