Parallel Multi-Zone Methods for Large-Scale Multidisciplinary Computational Physics Simulations

A parallel multi-zone method for the simulation of large-scale multidisciplinary applications involving field equations from multiple branches of physics is outlined. The equations of mathematical physics are expressed in a unified form that enables a single algorithm and computational code to describe problems involving diverse, but closely coupled, physics. Specific sub-disciplines include fluid and plasma dynamics, electrodynamics, radiative energy transfer, thermal/mechanical stress and strain distributions and conjugate heat transfer in solids. Efficient parallel implementation of these coupled physics must take into account the different number of governing field equations in the various physical zones and the close coupling inside and between regions. This is accomplished by implementing the unified computational algorithm in terms of an arbitrary grid and a flexible data structure that allows load balancing by sub-clusters. Capabilities are demonstrated by a trapped vortex liquid spray combustor, an MHD power generator, combustor cooling in a rocket engine and a pulsed detonation engine-based combustion system for a gas turbine. The results show a variety of interesting physical phenomena and the efficacy of the computational implementation.