A Grid Framework for Computational Mechanics Applications

Currently, numerical simulation using automated parameter studies is a key tool in discovering functional optima in complex systems. In future, such studies of complex systems will be important for the purpose of steering simulations. One example is the optimum design and steering of high power furnaces of power plants. Grid technology makes it possible to carry out sophisticated simulations. However, the large scale of such studies requires organized support for the submission, monitoring, and termination of jobs, as well as mechanisms for the collection of results, and the dynamic generation of new parameter sets in order to intelligently approach an optimum. In this paper we present a Grid framework consisting of GriCoL (Grid Concurrent Language), which we propose as a simple and efficient language for the description of complex Grid applications, along with SEGL (Science Experimental Grid Laboratory), the problem solving environment within which GriCoL works. We apply this framework to a computational mechanics application with industrial applicability, the simulation of high power furnaces at a power plant