Numerical modelling

In the space of just a few decades, digital simulation has become one of the most widely used techniques by engineers in industry. Not only does it support the development of new products, it also helps to demonstrate and optimize their performance (e.g., reducing noise and energy consumption in land, sea and air transport, increasing the lifespan of mechanical structures and electronic components, and ensuring that buildings withstand environmental stresses such as wind, waves and earthquakes).

In the industrial sector in the broadest sense of the term, the use of this technique is becoming more widespread: while large industrial groups were the first to deploy it on a massive scale, it has gradually spread to smaller companies. It has also become a decision-making tool, used in many sectors beyond industry (e.g. agriculture, basic sciences – such as Earth and Universe – meteorology or climatology, medicine and health, etc.).

The aim of this article is to show the concepts underlying simulation, illustrate them with concrete examples, and discuss its practices and some of the innovation issues involved in its application to the industrial sector.

Readers will find references in the "Further reading" section associated with this article. An additional bibliography and links to websites provide useful resources for furthering knowledge on the subject.