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Advanced CFD Methods
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:49
Abstract
Fundamental and advanced numerical methods used in commercial and open-source CFD codes will be explained. The main focus is on numerical methods for conservation laws with discontinuities, which is relevant for trans- and hypersonic gas dynamics problems, but also CFD of incompressible flows, Direct Simulation Monte Carlo and the Lattice Boltzmann method are explained.
Objective
Knowing what's behind a state-of-the-art CFD code is not only important for developers, but also for users in order to choose the right methods and to achieve meaningful and accurate numerical results. Acquiring this knowledge is the main goal of this course. Established numerical methods to solve the incompressible and compressible Navier-Stokes equations are explained, whereas the focus lies on finite volume methods for compressible flow simulations. In that context, first the main theory and then numerical schemes related to hyperbolic conservation laws are explained, whereas not only examples from fluid mechanics, but also simpler, yet illustrative ones are considered (e.g. Burgers and traffic flow equations). In addition, two less commonly used yet powerful approaches, i.e., the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) and Lattice Boltzmann methods, are introduced. For most exercises a C++ code will have to be modified and applied.
Content
- Finite-difference vs. finite-element vs. finite-volume methods - Basic approach to simulate incompressible flows - Brief introduction to turbulence modeling - Theory and numerical methods for compressible flow simulations - Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) - Lattice Boltzmann method
Resources
Lecture Notes
Part of the course is based on the referenced books. In addition, the participants receive a manuscript and the slides.
Literature
"Computational Fluid Dynamics" by H. K. Versteeg and W. Malalasekera. "Finite Volume Methods for Hyperbolic Problems" by R. J. Leveque.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- None
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Advanced CFD Methods |
|
2 h weekly |
| exercise | Advanced CFD Methods |
|
1 h weekly |
Offered In
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Additional Electives from the Fields of Specialization (CSE Master) (recognition of 227-0662-00L and 227-0662-10L requires the successful completion of both course units)
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Energy, Flows and Processes (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
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Fluid Dynamics (One of the course units 151-0208-00L Computational Methods for Flow, Heat and Mass Transfer Problems 151-0212-00L Advanced CFD Methods is compulsory.)
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