Technology
The Origins and Evolution of Fluent: An Interactive CFD Software
The Origins and Evolution of Fluent: An Interactive CFD Software
The term Fluent is often used in the context of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, specifically by ANSYS. This article delves into the history of Fluent, tracing its roots back to a modest project funded by Creare Inc., and exploring its journey as one of the leading CFD software solutions in engineering simulation.
The Early Beginnings of Fluent
Fluent was born from a modest project supported by Creare Inc., a New Hampshire-based company, which aimed to create an easy-to-use and interactive CFD software code for engineers. This project laid the foundation for what would become a pivotal software in the field of computational fluid dynamics.
Key Figures in Fluent's Development
Dr. Ferit Boysan, a pioneering researcher at Sheffield University in the UK, played a crucial role in the development of this technology. He joined forces with Bart Patel, a department head at Creare Inc., to further the cause. Simultaneously, Michael Engelman established Fluid Dynamics International (FDI) in Chicago, Illinois, which was a dominant player in finite element CFD. Together, these three individuals became the driving forces behind the success and growth of Fluent over the next two decades.
The collaboration between Sheffield University and Creare Inc. resulted in the creation of an interactive and user-friendly CFD software product designed for the broader engineering community. The first version of FLUENT was launched in October 1983, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of CFD technology.
The Role of ANSYS in the Evolution of Fluent
While ANSYS is now the primary sponsor and distributor of Fluent, it's important to note that the term Fluent initially referred to this groundbreaking CFD software. ANSYS acquired Fluent in 1999, enhancing its capabilities and expanding its market presence. Today, Fluent remains a cornerstone of ANSYS's CFD software suite, offering advanced simulation capabilities for a diverse range of applications.
Fluent as a Non-Acronym
Interestingly, according to ANSYS's official website, Fluent is not an acronym. Instead, it is a brand name designed to convey the intuitive and user-friendly nature of the software. This naming strategy reflects ANSYS's commitment to creating accessible, yet powerful, simulation tools for engineers and researchers.
Key Features and Applications of Fluent
Fluent is renowned for its versatility and ease of use. It offers a wide range of functionalities, including:
Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) Large-Eddy Simulation (LES) Laminar and turbulence models Explicit and implicit solvers Mesh generation and pre/post-processing capabilitiesThese features make Fluent a preferred choice for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where accurate fluid flow analysis is crucial.
Conclusion
The history of Fluent intertwines with significant advancements in computational fluid dynamics. From its humble beginnings as a project supported by Creare Inc. to its integration with ANSYS and becoming a leading CFD software solution, Fluent continues to shape the future of engineering simulation. Whether you are an engineer, researcher, or student, understanding the origins and evolution of Fluent can provide valuable insights into the power of computational tools in solving complex fluid dynamics problems.