KAUST recently hosted the Research Conference: Predictive Complex Computational Fluid Dynamics (PCCFD) from May 22 to 24. The conference brought together local and international CFD scientists from academia and industry to discuss the latest work and findings in CFD. Topics included variable-order algorithms, adaptive mesh refinement, fluid-structure interaction, and uncertainty quantification. Why it matters: The conference highlights KAUST's commitment to advancing CFD research and its applications in various fields, including aerospace, oil industry, and environmental science.
KAUST researchers used the Shaheen XC40 supercomputer to simulate airflow around a McLaren 17D Formula One front wing endplate. They then 3D printed the wing with colored flow patterns to visualize key aerodynamic features. The team combined expertise from the Extreme Computing Research Center (ECRC), the Advanced Algorithm and Numerical Simulations Lab (AANSLab), and the Prototyping and Product Development Core Lab (PCL). Why it matters: This project showcases KAUST's supercomputing and 3D printing capabilities for advanced engineering applications, potentially impacting fields beyond Formula One aerodynamics.
KAUST's Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) is expanding its Cloudflame database, a platform providing computational tools and scientific data for combustion research. Cloudflame offers features like flame speed calculations, ignition delay simulation, and a Fuel Design Tool to formulate fuel mixtures. The platform allows researchers to compare findings, perform computations remotely, and receive results via email. Why it matters: Cloudflame fosters global collaborations and accelerates advancements in clean combustion technologies, crucial for energy saving and environmental conservation in the region and worldwide.
KAUST scientists are developing models to predict extreme weather events like the 2009 Jeddah flood, which caused significant damage. Prof. Ibrahim Hoteit's team is using data from satellites, international sources, and local entities like PME and the Jeddah Municipality to build high-resolution models. The aim is to improve predictions of extreme rain events by one or two days and issue timely warnings. Why it matters: Improving extreme weather prediction is crucial for mitigating the impact of climate change in vulnerable regions like the GCC.
KAUST's Clean Combustion Research Center (CCRC) hosted the Combustion in Extreme Conditions research conference from March 5-8. The conference focused on combustion under extreme conditions in modern engines, covering high-pressure combustion, advanced diagnostics, and high-performance computations. Experts from academia, national labs, and industry discussed global collaborations toward clean combustion systems, alternative fuels, and emission reduction techniques. Why it matters: The conference highlights KAUST's role as a global hub for combustion research and its commitment to advancing technologies for cleaner and more efficient energy solutions.
KAUST's Visual Computing Center had two papers recognized at IEEE VIS 2023. One paper, from Prof. Markus Hadwiger's group, introduced a new method for detecting and visualizing vortex structures in 2D fluid flows, which was recognized as one of the best papers. The second paper, from Prof. Ivan Viola's team, presented Dr. KID, a visualization framework for physicalizing biological structures into 3D-printed models, receiving an honorable mention. Why it matters: These awards highlight KAUST's contributions to cutting-edge visualization techniques with potential applications in diverse scientific and engineering fields.
KAUST Professors William Roberts and Robert Dibble were inducted as Fellows of The Combustion Institute (CI) in February. Roberts was recognized for his work on laminar flames, turbulent combustion, and soot formation at elevated pressures. Dibble was inducted for exceptional contributions to developing and using laser diagnostics for combustion research. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's contributions to combustion research and strengthens its position as a leading institution in the field, attracting top students and researchers.
KAUST Ph.D. student Chiheb Ben Hammouda won the best poster award at the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics Conference on Financial Mathematics & Engineering (FM19) for his work on option pricing under the rough Bergomi model. The winning poster, titled "Hierarchical adaptive sparse grids and quasi-Monte Carlo for option pricing under the rough Bergomi model," details research carried out under the supervision of KAUST Professor Raul Tempone. The research group designed new efficient numerical methods for pricing derivatives under the rough Bergomi model by combining smoothing techniques. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's growing expertise in financial mathematics and its contribution to solving complex problems in the field using advanced numerical methods.