Altair Invests in GPU-Optimized CFD Simulation Solver

Another simulation company speeds computations with GPU.

In an effort to speed up simulation compute simulation times, several companies have been utilizing various technologies from HPC, GPU and/or the cloud.

GPU is a popular route as it can utilize the many parallel processors already included in a simulation user’s workstation. GPU is typically faster and more energy efficient than traditional CPU-based solvers.

Some companies moving down this route include ANSYS, CD-adapco, Siemens, and Dassault Systèmes.

Now Altair is investing in FluiDyna as a means to develop GPU-based CFD and simulation solvers. Optimized numerical methods for thermodynamics and fluid flow is a specialty of FluiDyna. In return, the companies will work together to develop GPU-optimized CFD analysis and a new virtual wind tunnel.

Thanks to the collaboration, Altair can offer its user base access to the following FluiDyna technologies as a reseller and through the Altair Partner Alliance:

• ultraFluidX for internal/external/environmental aerodynamics based on Lattice Boltzmann
• nanoFluidX for particle-based fluid dynamics based on smoothed particle hydrodynamics

“FluiDyna’s technology and expertise complement Altair’s CFD offerings by providing yet another methodology particularly tuned for external aerodynamics, fast computation and our core strength in optimization,” said Uwe Schramm, chief technical officer at Altair. “The collaboration between our CAE (HyperWorks) and HPC (PBS Works) development teams with FluiDyna’s experts will offer new and exciting opportunities to expand our product portfolio that is taking advantage of GPU-based clusters and supports green computing initiatives.”

Which route do you prefer and why: Cloud, HPC, or GPU? Comment below.