Application of High Performance Computing for Automotive Design and Manufacturing

This project developed new computer simulation tools which can be used in DOE internal combustion engine and weapons simulation programs currently being developed. Entirely new massively parallel computer modeling codes for chemically reactive and incompressible fluid mechanics with interactive physics sub-models were developed. Chemically reactive and aerodynamic flows are central parts in many DOE systems. Advanced computer modeling codes with new chemistry and physics capabilities can be used on massively parallel computers to handle more complex problems associated with chemically reactive propulsion systems, energy efficiency, enhanced performance and durability, multi-fuel capability and reduced pollutant emissions. The work for this project is also relevant to the design, development and application of advanced user-friendly computer codes for new high-performance computing platforms for manufacturing and which will also impact and interact with the U.S.'s advanced communications program. Finite element method (FEM) formulations were developed that are directly usable in simulating rapid deformation resulting from collision, impact, projectiles, etc. This simulation capability is applicable to both DOE (e.g., surety and penetration) and DoD (e.g., armor) applications. The models of plate and shell composite structures were developed for simulation of glass continuous strand mat and braided composite in thermoset polymer matrix. The developed numerical tools based upon the fundamental mechanisms responsible for damage evolution in continuous-fiber organic-matrix composites. This class of materials is especially relevant because of their high strength to mass ratio, anisotropic behavior, and general application in most transportation and weapon delivery systems. The high-performance computational tools developed are generally applicable to a broad spectrum of materials with similar fiber structures