FLEXAS Accelerated Solver

Simulation of complex and large-scale Finite Element (FE) models run into major computational challenges. Even with modern hardware, modelling at high fidelity can be impractical or severely limited. 

FLEXAS^TM changes that. As a proprietary solver for large-scale FE models, it was designed to overcome common computational challenges. A novel framework - known as Nonlinear Dynamic Substructuring (NDS) - enables simulation of reduced order models comprising efficient numerical representations of the original, with no loss in fidelity.

Benefits and efficiencies of the framework stem from the following: 

• Orders of magnitude reduction in the size of the simulations 
• Algorithms that selectively update portions undergoing a “state” change 
• “Specialized” nonlinearities requiring unique solution procedures contained within the substructure level without impacting global solution
• Fully implicit solutions even at global system configurations with contact and dynamics, instead of less accurate explicit solutions
• Strict solution controls and enforcement for improved accuracy

Our Solution/Approach

The FLEXAS^TM solutions delivers computational efficiencies and benefits over traditional simulations, in both accuracy and speed such as: 

• Enabling simulation of large scale coupled systems – rather than the traditional approach of isolated systems with discrete boundaries 
• Increasing modelling details without the traditional simulation time penalty – improving accuracy and productivity 
• Facilitating increased number of simulation load cases and sensitivities for reduced uncertainty and risk

Applications

Stationary and non-stationary random vibrations

• Frequency-based inputs (input/output PSD signals)
• Full frequency spectrum (dynamics to acoustics)
• Acoustic driven vibrations
• Stochastic fatigue
• Floating systems structural dynamics
• Pressure vessel FIV
• Pipeline/Jumper FIV & VIV
• Rotordynamic

Nonlinear Dynamics

• Time-domain nonlinear dynamics with inertial effects and contact
• Flexible risers and umbilicals
• Complex connectors

Dropped Objects (Multiphysics)

• Combined nonlinear dynamics, flexible-body dynamics, and contact with fluid-structure interaction
• High-fidelity dynamic simulations to predict object fall trajectories – quantified risk for subsea assets
• Blind validation at NASA Neutral Buoyancy Lab