Numerical methods in fluid mechanics

Mechanical Engineering

About this course

Numerical simulation has long become an indispensable tool in all areas of mechanical engineering. In research, numerical simulation allows us to obtain information of mechanical systems in a level of detail that is usually inaccessible from experiments. In applications, it is used for parameter studies, optimisation and virtual prototyping. This course provides a thorough introduction to numerical techniques for the solution of linear systems, ordinary and partial differential equations, as needed for computational fluid dynamics. The fundamental issues of consistency, stability and convergence of numerical methods are treated, while maintaining a focus on their practical application.

The course is taught in English, integrating lectures with practical exercises. Numerical methods will be implemented in Python, using the Jupyter notebook format.

Expected learning outcomes

This course aims to familiarise students with the theoretical foundations of numerical modelling, as well as their practical use for a wide variety of problems. The focus, in the second half of the course, is on the special requirements of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Experience with Python is not a prerequisite, but will be gained during exercises.