Time marching for simulation of fluid–structure interaction problems

Numerical simulation of industrial multi-physics problems is still a challenge. It generally requires large computational resources. It may involve complex code coupling techniques. It also relies on appropriate numerical methods making data transfer possible, quick and accurate. In the framework of partitioned procedures, multi-physics computations require the right choice of code coupling schemes, because several physical mechanisms are involved. Numerical simulation of fluid–structure interactions is one of these issues. It is investigated in this paper. First the computational process involving a code coupling procedure is presented. Then, applications and test cases involving fluid structure interactions are investigated using several examples. A partitioned procedure involves several operators ensuring code coupling. A special attention must be paid to energy conservation at the fluid–structure interface, especially when it is moving and when strong non-linear behaviour occurs in both fluid and structure systems. In the present work, several fluid–structure code-coupling schemes are compared and discussed in terms of stability and energy conservation properties. The criteria are based on the evaluation of the energy that is numerically created at the fluid–structure interface. This is achieved by considering the staggering process due to the time lag between the fluid and structure solvers. Comparisons are made, and finally the article gives recommendations for creating a tool devoted to coupled simulations of fluid structure interactions.