Finite Volume Methods for Solid Mechanics and Fluid–Structure Interaction in solids4foam

Speaker's Name: Philip Cardiff
Speaker's Affiliation: University College Dublin
Speaker's Research Theme(s): Applied Mathematics, Numerical and applied analysis
Abstract:
Finite volume methods are widely used in computational fluid dynamics but are less commonly applied to solid mechanics and fluid–structure interaction (FSI). In this talk, we present recent developments in finite volume discretisations for nonlinear solid mechanics and strongly coupled FSI, as implemented in the open-source solids4foam toolbox within OpenFOAM. The talk will outline the core ideas underlying cell-centred finite volume formulations for linear and nonlinear mechanics, including classic segregated approaches, residual-based formulations suitable for Newton-type solution strategies, and extensions to higher-order formulations. We discuss partitioned FSI coupling approaches and recent developments toward monolithic FSI procedures, and highlight how a unified finite-volume framework enables consistent treatment of fluids and solids within the same discretisation paradigm. Selected examples will illustrate the approach’s performance and flexibility for multiphysics problems involving large deformations and strong coupling. The aim of the talk is to provide an accessible overview of the methodology, clarify its relationship to more traditional finite element approaches, and discuss current challenges and opportunities for finite volume methods in solid and coupled mechanics.

Venue: Online
Online Conference Link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/35280942594685?p=kUEY1N2QveWobKiwcB