This module was developed by ATA Engineering as an add-on to the Loci/CHEM computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver. The module can be used to couple Loci/CHEM to a linear finite element model (FEM). The user must supply the mass and stiffness matrices for the FEM. These can typically be exported from a FEM tool like NASTRAN or Abaqus. Mechanical coupling is supported between Loci/CHEM and the FEM. The FEM will provide Loci/CHEM with a displacement on the interface boundary, which Loci/CHEM will use to calculate aerodynamic loads to provide to the FEM. An internal mapping algorithm is used to map data between the Loci/CHEM and FEM meshes.
This module depends on both Loci and CHEM being installed. Loci is an open source framework developed at Mississippi State University (MSU) by Dr. Ed Luke. The framework provides a rule-based programming model and can take advantage of massively parallel high performance computing systems. CHEM is a full featured open source CFD code with finite-rate chemistry built on the Loci framework. CHEM is export controlled under the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). Both Loci and CHEM can be obtained from the SimSys Software Forum hosted by MSU.
The source code for the module is freely available to a restricted set of users. For more information and to request a copy please contact mnucci@ata-e.com.