Multi-physics Modeling of Technological Systems

1Role of Simulation in the Design Cycle of Complex Technological Systems

Manufacturers of technological products are permanently engaged in innovation activities, particularly by integrating electronics and information technologies such as automation or computing. These systems are often characterized by a synergy of various physics domains, such as mechanics, electronics, hydraulics, thermodynamics and heat transfer. This unavoidably leads to highly complex systems, also known as mechatronic systems [UNM 08]. The design approach associated with these products involves distinct phases that will be described in the next section.

The use of adapted models and simulations in which physical prototypes (often costly and difficult to make or/and operate) are replaced by virtual prototypes (often far less costly, easier to implement and more flexible) makes it possible to reduce design costs and time. Nevertheless, each level of the design process is associated with various types of tools requiring different models and simulations. Up to this day, the realization of a single model representing the virtual product prototype is not realistic. In fact, there are nearly as many models as questions to be addressed, and some tools are better suited than others when it comes to tackling these questions.

This chapter presents the V design cycle of a complex product and describes the engineering tasks to be performed at each stage. For a better comprehension of the concepts introduced, this ...