1. Simulate to understand, design, predict and optimize

Numerical simulation is based on the premise that it is possible to account for physical – or other phenomena (biological, economic, demographic, physiological, etc.) – using mathematical models. Consisting of a set of equations, they are built with a certain number of assumptions limiting their use. The validity of the model is attested by a comparison with physical reality, and its accuracy in a given field is accepted by the engineering community. Under these conditions, the mathematical model acquires a significant predictive capacity. It can then be used to characterize the entity under study: for example, to predict the lifespan of an electrical appliance, the acoustic and thermal comfort of an auditorium, the fuel consumption of an automobile, the efficiency of a wind turbine or the sailing speed of a submarine.

Today, this technique is used in industry and...