Development of Real-Time Dynamic Super-Element Partitioning

The ever-increasing size of computational structural mechanics (CSM) simulations in energy and other key national industries imposes a pressing need for commensurate increases in computational speed, in order to keep costs and computation times in check. This project will develop an innovative approach to ultra-large-scale CSM simulations and ultra-high speed computing. Phase I developed algorithms for computational structural modeling and simulation on non-Von Neumann computer architectures. A perturbation/trade study analysis showed that computation times could be reduced by 2 to 3 orders of magnitude. Phase II will use real-time, dynamic, super-element forced partitioning to enhance the high-performance computing approach developed in Phase I. Robust software will be developed for ultra-rapid evaluation of ultra-large scale structural problems, using parallel processing software and field programmable gate array (FPGA) chips. A unique single-element formulation for closely solving the stress field in the region of a circular hole in a tension loading will be developed and demonstrated. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new simulation approach should provide powerful, affordable software for the rapid analysis of ultra-large-scale engineering problems. For example, the technology should greatly reduce the excessive times/costs currently associated with configuration changes and design analyses of automotive and aerospace vehicles.