Course detail
Multiphysical Simulation in Automotive Industry
FSI-QMO Acad. year: 2027/2028 Winter semester
The course focuses on modern computational simulations of fluid flow, heat transfer, and related physical phenomena applied in the development of motor vehicles and their powertrains. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to engineering problems, including flow optimization in turbocharger compressors and turbines, cooling of internal combustion engines and electric powertrains, lubrication and hydrodynamic bearings, and vehicle aerodynamics, including surface soiling.
Students are introduced to fundamental physical principles, computational modelling methods, and the capabilities of commercial CFD software. The course covers turbulent and multiphase flow modelling, heat transfer, and selected multiphysics interactions. Particular attention is given to the appropriate selection of computational models, interpretation of simulation results, and critical assessment of their reliability. Practical computer-based exercises and guest lectures by industry experts connect the acquired knowledge with real-world applications in automotive engineering.
Language of instruction
Czech
Number of ECTS credits
6
Supervisor
Department
Entry knowledge
Expected prior knowledge includes bachelor-level mathematics (linear algebra, differential and integral calculus, differential equations), fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and fundamentals of heat transfer. Previous experience with computational modelling and numerical methods acquired in earlier master-level courses is advantageous.
Rules for evaluation and completion of the course
The course is completed by a course-unit credit and an examination. Credit requires attendance at compulsory computer-based classes and completion of assigned practical tasks; missed activities are made up as instructed by the teacher. Assessment comprises continuous tests related to lectures, a practical CFD task including a physical estimate or benchmark calculation and critical evaluation, a written theoretical test, written calculation problems and an oral part assessing the application of knowledge. Participation in individual points-bearing components is voluntary; non-participation yields no points for the relevant component. Admission to the oral part requires a specified minimum performance in preceding components; students may also finalise their assessment without the oral part. Successful completion requires the course-unit credit and achievement of the overall passing standard. Detailed point allocations, grading thresholds and organisational arrangements are specified and communicated before teaching begins in accordance with the binding course documentation. Artificial intelligence tools may be used exclusively during computer-based classes and only as authorised by the teacher; they are prohibited in continuous tests and all parts of the examination.
Aims
The course aims to demonstrate how CFD and multiphysics simulations can be used to solve real engineering challenges in vehicle and powertrain development – from reducing aerodynamic drag and investigating vehicle surface soiling to analysing fluid flow and heat transfer in engines, cooling and lubrication systems, and optimising turbocharger compressors, turbines and bearings. Students learn to connect physical principles with model selection, simulation setup and critical assessment of results. Industrial case studies and computer-based classes develop practical skills relevant to designing more efficient, reliable and energy-efficient engineering systems. The course also develops an understanding of CFD modelling assumptions and limitations and the ability to judge whether simulation results provide sufficient evidence for engineering decisions.
Study aids
ZIKANOV, O. Essential Computational Fluid Dynamics. Hoboken: Wiley, 2010.
STACHOWIAK, G. W. and A. W. BATCHELOR. Engineering Tribology. 3rd ed. Elsevier, 2005.
NGUYEN-SCHÄFER, H. Rotordynamics of Automotive Turbochargers. 2nd ed. Springer, 2015.
ANSYS, Inc. Ansys CFX Theory Guide. Release 2026 R1. Canonsburg: Ansys, 2026 (dokumentace používané verze).
The study programmes with the given course
Programme N-ADI-P: Automotive and Material Handling Engineering, Master's, compulsory-optional
Programme N-AAE-P: Advanced Automotive Engineering, Master's, compulsory-optional
Type of course unit
Lecture
26 hours, optionally
Syllabus
- Multiphysics Simulations and Coupled Physical Phenomena in Automotive Engineering
- Computational Mesh Generation Methods for CFD
- Physical Principles and Mathematical Description of Fluid Flow
- Computational Domains and Boundary Conditions in CFD
- Numerical Solution of Transport Equations in CFD
- Modelling Turbulent Flows Using CFD
- Modelling Unsteady Turbulent Flows Using CFD
- Modelling Heat Transfer and Thermal Interactions Using CFD
- Physical Principles of Lubrication in Powertrain Components
- Hydrodynamic Lubrication Modelling of Turbocharger Bearings
- Modelling Multiphase Flows Using CFD
- Industrial Applications of CFD in Vehicle Aerodynamics
- Industrial Applications of CFD in Turbomachinery
Computer-assisted exercise
26 hours, compulsory
Syllabus
- Introduction of tools for CFD application
- Application of mesh generation methods for solids and domains
- Application of mesh generation methods for CFD simulations
- Creation of computational models for CFD simulations
- Application basics for CFD tools
- Simulation of component lubrication using CFD
- Simulation of flow in a turbocharger compressor
- Simulation and analysis of component lubrication
- Simulation of oil flow in the lubrication system
- Simulation and analysis of external aerodynamics of vehicle components
- Simulation of the vehicle external aerodynamics
- Simulation of gas flow through a thin gap
- Test in the form of a practical application of a CFD tool