Abstract: We present some recent progress in the development of the Vortex Particle-Mesh (VPM) method. This variant of classical Vortex Particle methods exploits a dual discretization: the mesh allows the efficient evaluation of differential operators and the use of grid-based elliptic solvers while the particles advect the vorticity field. It is here combined with an immersed lifting line approach to perform massively parallel Large Eddy Simulation of complex wake flows behind aircraft, rotorcraft and wind turbines. We discuss the maturity of the methodology and its potential in the investigation of wake physics. Other developments, such as the Immersed Interface treatment of boundaries, compressibility and Fluid-Structure interaction, are also briefly presented.

Bio:
– Mechanical engineer, Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium, 1999
– MS and PhD in Aeronautics and Applied Mathematics, Caltech, 2005
– Research Associate, ETH Zurich, 2005-2009
– Professor of aeronautical and mechanical engineering, at Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium since 2009
– Research interests: vortex dynamics, vortex methods, particle methods, their deployment in HPC environments, applications cover wind energy, aeronautics and bio-locomotion
– Co-Founder of a spin-off company, Wake Prediction Technologies, 2013