Numerical methods in fluid mechanics

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.

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.

Form: Homework assignment in the form of a Jupyter notebook
Date: 18 December 2023
Location/format: online
Transcript available: end of the semester and generally 8 weeks after the exam

lecture, practical exercises