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Multidisciplinary optimization: the best design among CAD, CFD, FEA and control
Optimization algorithms drive CAD, CFD and FEA models and analytical models together, to find the design that meets several objectives at once. Single-objective or multi-objective, with the Pareto front.
Used on a subsea heating control project, where it detected several design problems and saved money.
Optimization track record
- Subsea heating controlMulti-objective evolutionary optimization in the HVMI heating of a subsea line. Several design problems were detected and money was saved.
- Own clusterATS has its own cluster with more than 150 cores and 1 TB of RAM.
- Exclusive representativeATS is the exclusive representative in Brazil of iChrome Nexus.
- Four algorithm familiesSimplex, genetic algorithms, particle swarm and simulated annealing.
- Several objectivesMulti-objective problems solved with the Pareto front.
Complete studies, from the problem definition to the optimum design
We prefer whole projects to isolated runs: ATS responsible for the workflow, the optimization and the report.
Workflow
CAD, CFD and FEA models connected, so each design change is recalculated by itself.
Optimization
Choice of the algorithm and of the objectives, constraints and variables of the problem.
Trade-off between objectives
The Pareto front shows what is gained in one objective for what is lost in another.
Need only a part? We define the scope with you.
What you receive
Definition of the problem
Objectives, constraints and design variables, with your team.
Automated workflow
Connection of CAD, CFD, FEA and analytical models in iChrome Nexus.
Optimization runs
With the algorithm that fits the problem.
Pareto front
For problems with more than one objective.
Optimum design
The recommended design and the evidence of why.
Report
Method, results and recommendation.
How ATS optimizes a design
What it is
Multidisciplinary optimization (MDO) searches for the best design when several disciplines, such as fluids, structures and control, affect the same part or system.
Algorithms
Simplex, genetic algorithms (GA), particle swarm (PSO) and simulated annealing (SA). The choice depends on the problem.
Single and multiple objectives
With a single objective, one best design. With several, the Pareto front, which shows the trade-off so you can decide.
Tools
iChrome Nexus manages the workflow between CAD, CFD and FEA, and Python is used for analytical models and for optimization.
Tools, and where each one fits
Tools serve the engineering work. We say what each one does in the project.
| Tool | Role in the project | Status |
|---|---|---|
| iChrome Nexus | Optimizer and manager of complex CAD, CFD and FEA workflows. | Licensed |
| Python, Nsp, Scilab | Analytical and control models, and optimization, with no license needed. | In use |
| CFD++ | Fluid flow, heat transfer, combustion and particles in 3D. ATS is the exclusive CFD++ representative in Brazil. | Licensed |
| Femap, NX Nastran, Adina | Stress analysis, contact, hyperelastic and nonlinear materials, thermal and fluid-structure coupling. | Licensed |
Evidence you can check
Optimization applied in subsea engineering.
Project work
| Project | What we did | Tools and tests | Result or venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oceaneering and Shell: heating of a subsea line (HVMI)Project | Control of the HVMI heating under the sea. A multi-fluid problem, with liquid water and air, very high inertia and a very large mesh. | Analytical model validated with CFD, NSP block diagram and Python codes, PID control, and the Nexus optimization package. | PID control designed for minimum overshoot and minimum flow-line temperature. Several design problems detected and money saved. |
Examples
Select an image to see each example.
Workflow in iChrome Nexus
Workflow, optimization charts and stress map in Nexus.
Request a technical proposalHow an engagement runs
Diagnosis and goal
We define the problem, the operating conditions and the target with your team.
Model
The geometry of the equipment is prepared and the physics that apply are chosen.
Analysis
Numerical calculation based on the applicable physical principles.
Checks and validation
Results are checked for consistency and compared with tests, plant data or the literature.
Solution and report
Design of the solution, specification of the test when needed, and the report.
Follow-up
Support in the field test or in operation, and revisions.
Related services
Questions engineers ask before they hire us
What problems suit optimization?
Those where fluids, structures and control affect the same design, and where the design variables can be changed in the models.
Which algorithm do you use?
Simplex, GA, PSO or SA, depending on the problem.
What is the Pareto front?
The set of designs in which no objective can improve without worsening another.
Do I need licenses?
No. ATS has the licenses and its own cluster.
Is our data kept confidential?
Yes. We work under NDA, and your design data and reports stay with you.
Tell us what you want to optimize
Send the objectives, the constraints and the models you already have.
sales@aerothermalsolutions.co+55 11 3854-4224An ATS engineer replies. We work under NDA.