Research lines and software products for the oil and gas industry

1. New computational methods for study of drilling mechanics and cuttings transport in boreholes

1.1 DEM-FEM and PFEM approaches for study of drilling mechanics

Modeling and simulation of drilling problems in oil and gas industry is a challenging computational task. Some relevant problems of practical interest to accurately predict are multi-fracture of soil and rock at the drill bit, the wear of the drilling tools and the transport of cuttings within the drill pipe immersed in a mud-type flow up to the pipe surface.

CIMNE has developed several techniques to study ground drilling and excavation processes.

The two most promising methods are:

- Coupling of the discrete element method (DEM) and finite element method (FEM) [1-5]. This technique combines the discrete element method (which models the continuous solid in a separate set of simple geometric shapes) with conventional finite element method. We have developed at CIMNE a local constitutive modal for the DEM adequate for the non-linear analysis of soft and hard soils. An innovative combined DEM-FEM procedure has been applied for simulating multi-fracture of material at the drill bit. This allows the study of multi-fractures in granular media process (including land and rocks) with DEM modeling, while the unbroken continuum is modeled with FEM. The DEM-FEM technique has been applied successfully to the study of many problems in ground engineering, including processes of excavation, tunneling, drilling and dredging in soils and rocks, and to ground deformation by explosions.

An interesting aspect of the DEM-FEM technique is that it allows the study of the effect of wear on the cutting tools during the excavation process.

- Particle finite element method (PFEM) [6.7]. That PFEM is a very powerful method to study cutting, excavation and dredging of soils and rocks. In addition to keeping track of the progress of the excavation front, PFEM can predict the deterioration of the cutting tools as the excavation progresses.

Current research work focusses in coupling the DEM-FEM approach with PFEM. This will result in a new particle discrete finite element method (PDFEM). This novel technique can become the most general method for the study of the ground and adjacent structures in multi-fracture situations such as excavation, drilling, dredging, explosions, tunneling, and others.

1.2 Analysis of cuttings transport problems

Cuttings transport (hole-cleaning) process is a challenging issue associated with efficiency of wellbore drilling process. Cuttings transport process involves complex interaction between cuttings, drill pipe, wellbore and drilling mud. To understand the cuttings transport in a wellbore advanced computational techniques such as discrete phase modeling, discrete element modeling (DEM) are essential. The major focus of this work is on utilizing Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM) to understand the cuttings behavior locally in critical sections of wellbore.

The PFEM technique uses an updated Lagrangian description to model the motion of nodes (particles) which are a conceptual representation of an underlying continuum domain (either a fluid or a solid). A mesh connects the nodes defining the discretized domain where the governing equations for the continuum problem are solved as in the standard FEM. The PFEM technique allows to model complex particulate flow problems. In this work PFEM is utilized to model the transport of cuttings in vertical and inclined wellbores.

These developments have been carried out under different R&D projects in national and EC programming in collaboration with construction companies.

Figure. Analysis of triaxial tests and study of drill bit mechanics using the DEM-FEM. Resukts obtained at CIMNE using the code DEMPACK (www.cimne.com/dempack)

Figure. Analysis of the transport of cutting particles within borehole pipes. Results obtained at CIMNE using the Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM, www.cimne.com/pfem)

1.3 Computational methods for analysis of fracking processes

The DEM-FEM technology developed by CIMNE is particularly suitable for application in sites with multi-fracture problems caused by explosions or by deformations due to rock blasting situation, geological/geotechnical failures or slides or to adjacent drilling.

The DEM-FEM technology is currently being use at CIMNE for analysis of hydraulic fracturing and pulse-controlled fracking problems in cooperation with several drilling and oil and gas companies worldwide.

Figure. Effect of a controlled explosion in a cylindrical cavity on the fracture of a rock mass. Above figure: Long pulse. Below figure: Short pulse. Results obtained at CIMNE with the DEM-FEM technology.

1.4 Drilling salt layers

The DEM-FEM and PFEM techniques developed by CIMNE are directly applicable to the study of drilling problems in salt layers. In both cases the correct modeling of ground layers and saline strata’s mechanical properties is critical.

CIMNE does not have a specific experience in applying this technique to drilling of salt layers. However, CIMNE has applied the above methods to the study of land drilling in typical geotechnical engineering surveys.

Related projects

CUTTER: Enhanced design and production of wear resistant rock cutting tools for construction machinery. Growth Programme of the EC. Duration: 2001-2003.

TUNCONSTRUCT: Technology Innovation in underground construction, FP6-NMP, CE, 2005-2009.

MULTIDIMENSIONAL CITY: Proyecto científico-tecnológico singular y de carácter estratégico, Proyecto PROFIT, Ministerio de Educación y Ciencia. Duration: 2005-2009

DRILLING MECHANICS: Study of drill-bit mechanics and cutting transport in boreholes. Weatherford , 2010-2013

FRACKING: Study of hydraulic and pulse-controlled fracturing using the DEM-FEM. Project in cooperation with several drilling and gas/oil companies.

Publications

Mier-Torrecilla M., Geyer A., Phillips J., Idelsohn S. and Oñate E.,  Numerical simulations of negatively buoyant jets in an immiscible fluid using the Particle Finite Element Method, International Journal of Fluid Mechanics,  Vol. 69 (5), pp. 1016-1030, 2012

Oñate, E., Celigueta  M.A., S.R. Idelsohn S.R., Salazar F. and Suárez B.,  Possibilities of the Particle Finite Element Method for fluid-soil-structure interaction problems, Computational Mechanics,  Vol. 48, 307-318, 2011

Mier-Torrecilla M., Idelsohn S. and Oñate E.,  Advances in the simulation of multi-fluid flows with the particle finite element method. Application to bubble dynamics, International Journal for Numerical Methods in Fluids,  Vol. 67, pp. 1516-1539, 2011

Carbonell J.M., Oñate E. and Suárez B., Modelling of Ground Excavation with the Particle Finite Element Method. Journal of Engineering Mechanics, ASCE, Vol. 136, pp. 455-463, 2010.

Oñate E., Idelsohn S.R., Celigueta M.A., Rossi R.,  Advances in the particle finite element method for the analysis of fluid–multibody interaction and bed erosion in free surface flows, Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering,  Vol. 197 (19-20), pp. 1777-1800, 2008

Larese, A., Rossi, R., Oñate, E., Idelsohn, S.R. ,  Validation of the particle finite element method (PFEM) for simulation of free surface flows, Engineering Computations,  25 (3-4), 385-425, 2008

Labra C., Rojek J., Oñate E. and Zárate F., Advances in discrete element modelling of underground excavations. Acta Geotechnica, Vol. 3 (4), pp. 317-322, 2008.

 Oñate E., Celigueta M.A. and Idelsohn S.R.,  Modeling bed erosion in free surface flows by the particle finite element method, Acta Geotechnica,  Vol 1 (4), pp. 237-252, 2006

Oñate E. and Rojek J., Combination of discrete element and finite element methods for dynamic analysis of geo-mechanics problems. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 193 (27-29), pp. 3087-3128, 2004

Oñate E., Idelsohn S.R., Del Pin F. and Aubry R.,  The particle finite element method. An overview, Int. J. Computat. Methods,  Vol. 1, No. 2, pp. 267-307, 2004

2. New computational methods for analysis of sloshing of fluids in tanks

CIMNE has developed advanced numerical methods for the study of the sloshing phenomenon in tanks containing liquids, such as oil tanks and transportable LNG ships.

CIMNE has developed two methods to study the sloshing problem:

- Particle finite element method (PFEM). A technique allowing full Lagrangian modeling of the fluid that accurately reproduces the effect of sloshing and its interaction with the walls of the tank taking into consideration its deformation.

- Finite Element Method coupled with free surface techniques based on the volume of fluid (VOF) technique. The method allows also the reproduction of the sloshing phenomenon, although the accuracy is lower than with PFEM, if the effect of sloshing coupled with the tank deformation is taken into account.

Related projects

These developments have been carried out in the period 2007-2013 in the framework of several research projects in collaboration with the Spanish company Navantia, the Norwegian company Det Norske Veritas (DNV), the Office for Naval Research (ONR) in USA and the European space Agency.

Publications

Idelsohn S. R., Oñate E., Del Pin F. and Calvo N., Fluid-structure interaction using the particle finite element method. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 195 (17-18), pp. 2100-2123, 2006.

Idelsohn S.R., Marti J., Limache A. and Oñate E., Unified Lagrangian formulation for elastic solids and incompressible fluids: Application to fluid–structure interaction problems via the PFEM. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 197 (19-20), pp. 1762-1776, 2008.

Del Pin F., Idelsohn S., Oñate E. and Aubry R., The ALE/Lagrangian particle finite element method: A new approach to computation of free-surface flows and fluid-object interactions. Computers & Fluids, Vol. 36 (1), pp. 27-38, 2007.

Idelsohn, S.R., Marti, J., Souto-Iglesias, A. and Oñate, E., Interaction between an elastic structure and free-surface flows: experimental versus numerical comparisons using the PFEM. Computational Mechanics, Vol. 43, pp. 125-132, 2008.

Oñate E., García J., Idelsohn S. R. and Del Pin F., Finite calculus formulations for finite element analysis of incompressible flows. Eulerian, ALE and Lagrangian approaches. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 195, 3001-3037, 2006.

Oñate E., Valls A. and García J., Computation of turbulent flows using a finite calculus-finite element formulation. International Journal for Numerical Methods in Fluids, 54, 609-637, 2007.

3. Innovative computational method for the study for the sea-keeping performance and stability of ships in large waves

3.1 Ship hydrodynamics

CIMNE has experience in the application of advanced numerical methods in the study of the dynamics of structures at sea. Both advanced finite element method (FEM) and the Particle Finite element Method (PFEM) have been developed and applied in this field to study the hydrodynamics of: ships at sea with waves; action of the waves on concrete blocks, and / or perforated blocks at port docks; perforated block dynamics during their placement at sea; erosion processes in submerged structures at sea; deformation of offshore platform structures under wave action; kinematics of wind turbines at sea. These applications have been carried out in the framework of different RTD projects with industry.

3.2 New computational methods for study of the ship-ice interaction

The Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM) developed in CIMNE is a very promising technique for the study of the dynamics of ice blocks floating or submerged in seawater and their interaction with each other and with adjacent deformable structures. PFEM also allows the study of multi-fractured ice blocks during their interaction with icebreakers, boat hulls or other items impacting ice. The method allows also taking into consideration ice at different temperatures, including its eventual melting in water.

Most of the research work carried out at CIMNE in these fields makes use of the codes Tdyn (www.compassis.com) and PFEM (www.cimne.com/pfem).

Related Projects

SAYOM: Development and design of a new system of planning, implementation and operation of maritime works. CDTI Project coordinated by Dragados SA. Duration: 2007 - 2009.

OFFSHORE: Study of the effect of waves on offshore platforms. Project in cooperation with the Institute for High Performance Computing, Singapore. Duration: 2009-2012.

FLASH – High Performance Computing Tools for enhanced hydrodynamic design of fast ships on parallel computing platforms. EC-EUROPEAN COMMISSION. FP4 – ESPRIT.Programme: EP-24903. 1997 – 2000.

Different projects related to studying the performance of surface effect ships and fast vessels in open sea and shallow waters. Contractor: Office for Naval Research (ONR), USA, 2008-2013

Publications

Computational Methods in Marine Engineering IV,  L. Eça, E. Oñate, J. Garcia, T. Kvamsdal, P.Bergan (Eds.), CIMNE , Barcelona 2011

García-Espinosa J., Valls A. and Oñate E., ODDLS: A new unstructured mesh finite element method for the analysis of free surface flow problems. Int. Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Vol 76 (9), pp. 1297-1327, 2008.

Larese, A., Rossi, R., Oñate, E. and Idelsohn S.R., Validation of the particle finite element method (PFEM) for simulation of free surface flows. Engineering Computations, Vol. 25 (3-4), pp. 385-425, 2008.

Idelsohn S.R., Marti J., Limache A. and Oñate E., Unified Lagrangian formulation for elastic solids and incompressible fluids: Application to fluid–structure interaction problems via the PFEM. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 197 (19-20), pp. 1762-1776, 2008.

Oñate E., Idelsohn S.R., Celigueta M.A. and Rossi R., Advances in the particle finite element method for the analysis of fluid–multi-body interaction and bed erosion in free surface flows. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 197 (19-20), pp. 1777-1800, 2008.

Idelsohn, S.R., Marti, J., Souto-Iglesias, A. and Oñate, E., Interaction between an elastic structure and free-surface flows: experimental versus numerical comparisons using the PFEM. Computational Mechanics, Vol. 43, pp. 125-132, 2008.

Celigueta M.A., Oñate E. and Idelsohn S.R.,  Simulation of ship sinking situations with the particle finite element method, Marine 2007,  Barcelona, 5-7 June, 2007

Del Pin F., Idelsohn S., Oñate E. and Aubry R., The ALE/Lagrangian particle finite element method: A new approach to computation of free-surface flows and fluid-object interactions. Computers & Fluids, Vol. 36 (1), pp. 27-38, 2007.

Idelsohn S. R., Oñate E., Del Pin F. and Calvo N., Fluid-structure interaction using the particle finite element method. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 195 (17-18), pp. 2100-2123, 2006.

Oñate E., Idelsohn S.R., Del Pin F. and Aubry R., The particle finite element method. An overview. International Journal of Computational Methods, Vol. 1 (2), pp. 267-307, 2004.

Oñate E., García J. and Idelsohn S.R.,  Ship hydrodynamics, Encyclopedia of Computational Mechanics,  Encyclopedia of Computational Mechanics, E. Stein, R. de Borst and T.J.R. Hughes (Eds.), John Wiley & Sons Ltd, Vol. 3, Chapter 18, pp. 579 - 607, 2004

4. Computational method for analysis of the stability of harbor and marine structures in heavy sea conditions

CIMNE has experience in the application of advanced numerical methods in the study of the dynamics of structures at sea. Particle finite element method (PFEM) has been developed and applied in this field to study the hydrodynamics of: ships at sea with waves; action of the waves on concrete blocks, and / or perforated blocks at port docks; perforated block dynamics during their placement at sea; erosion processes in submerged structures at sea; deformation of offshore platform structures under wave action; kinematics of wind turbines at sea.

Related Projects

SAFECON. New computationsl methods for studying the safety of constructions in water hazards. Project sponsored by the European Research Council of the European Commission under the Advanced Grant Scheme. Duration: 2010-2015.

SAYOM: Development and design of a new system of planning, implementation and operation of maritime works. CDTI Project coordinated by Dragados SA. Duration: 2007 - 2009.

OFFSHORE: Study of the effect of waves on offshore platforms. Project in cooperation with different companies in Spain. Duration: 2009-2013

WIND-TOWERS: Study of wind generator towers in the sea. Project in cooperation with different companies in Spain. Duration: 2010-2013

Publications

Oñate, E., Celigueta  M.A., S.R. Idelsohn S.R., Salazar F. and Suárez B.,  Possibilities of the Particle Finite Element Method for fluid-soil-structure interaction problems, Computational Mechanics,  Vol. 48, 307-318, 2011

García-Espinosa J., Valls A. and Oñate E., ODDLS: A new unstructured mesh finite element method for the analysis of free surface flow problems. Int. Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Vol 76 (9), pp. 1297-1327, 2008.

Larese, A., Rossi, R., Oñate, E. and Idelsohn S.R., Validation of the particle finite element method (PFEM) for simulation of free surface flows. Engineering Computations, 25 (3-4), 385-425, 2008.

Oñate E., Idelsohn S.R., Del Pin F. and Aubry R., The particle finite element method. An overview. International Journal of Computational Methods, Vol. 1 (2), pp. 267-307, 2004.

Idelsohn S. R., Oñate E., Del Pin F. and Calvo N., Fluid-structure interaction using the particle finite element method. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 195 (17-18), pp. 2100-2123, 2006.

Del Pin F., Idelsohn S., Oñate E. and Aubry R., The ALE/Lagrangian particle finite element method: A new approach to computation of free-surface flows and fluid-object interactions. Computers & Fluids, Vol. 36 (1), pp. 27-38, 2007.

5 New computational method for analysis of multiphase particulate flows

5.1 Multiphase gas-liquid-solid flows

CIMNE has developed advanced computation methods for the study of flows with different properties (heterogeneous or multi-fluid flows) which can contain solid particles of different sizes. These type of flows are typical of fluid-soil-structure interaction situations , environmental flows, biological flow, melting and burning of objects in fire and some industrial forming processes, among others.

The computation methodology is based on the Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM, www.cimne.com/pfem). The PFEM solves heterogeneous continuous media (including multi-particle flows). The continuous medium is modeled as a set of particles whose motion is tracked over time. The equations of continuum mechanics are solved by the finite element method (FEM), creating a mesh over a cloud of points in each instant of time. The PFEM allows studying the movement of solids (rigid or deformable) inside multiphase fluids, including the effect of frictional contact between the solids, and between these and the fluid.

The PFEM uses an updated Lagrangian description to model the motion of nodes (particles) in both the fluid and the solid/structure domains which are modelled as a single continuum (SC). Nodes are viewed as material points which can freely move and even separate from the main analysis domain representing, for instance, the effect of physical particles or water drops. A mesh connects the nodes defining the discretized domain where the governing equations for the SC problem are solved as in the standard FEM. The PFEM allows for frictional contact conditions and surface erosion at fluid-solid and solid-solid interfaces via mesh generation. A new technique to model the motion of particles of different sizes in a fluid has been recently developed at CIMNE.

The PFEM has been successfully applied to a number of particulate flow problems such as the motion of multiphase fluids in porous media, erosion of earth dams in overtopping situations, the motion of mud particles and floating/submerged bodies in tsunami flows, the impact of slurry flows on structures , the erosion due to water streams in river beds and slopes, erosion and particle transport in excavation and drilling problems in the construction and oil/gas industries, melting and dripping of polymer objects due to fire and simulation of industrial forming problems involving particulate flows ,among others.

5.2 Emulsions

The particle finite element technique (PFEM, www.cimne.com/pfem) developed in CIMNE is particularly suitable for simulation of emulsions. The PFEM has been applied successfully in CIMNE to study the behavior of two immiscible liquids in a more or less homogeneous mixture. The method allows simulation of one liquid’s dispersion in the other liquid, obtaining at each instant in time the evolution of the particles in both liquids through Lagrangian formulation.

PFEM can be applied to stable and unstable emulsions, such as flocculation, wherein particles form a mass; cremation, wherein particles are concentrated in the surface of the mixture (or bottom, depending on the two phases relative density) while remaining separated, and coalescence wherein the particles melt and form a liquid layer.

5.3 Modelling and simulation of the geotechnical behavior of salt formations

CIMNE has developed advances computational tools for the study of geo-technical and geology problems, including, among others, the behavior of saline formations, using the Particle Finite Elements Method (PFEM). Some applications of these developments include:

- Study of heterogeneous liquid leaks in porous media, including erosion and eventual sliding of granular media.

- Study of diapirs formation.

The potential of the PFEM for the study of saline formation is promising. Specifically PFEM allows modeling the behavior of salt formations in different stages, taking into account, for example, the effect of adjacent perforations, explosions, or the possible flow of fluid through the saline formation.

Related projects

SAFECON. New computationsl methods for studying the safety of constructions in water hazards. Project sponsored by the European Research Council of the European Commission under the Advanced Grant Scheme. Duration: 2010-2015.

REALTIME. Real time simulation of multi-fluid flows. Project sponsored by the European Research Council of the European Commission under the Advanced Grant Scheme. Duration: 2009-2014.

Publications

Oñate E , SR Celigueta MA , Idelsohn , Salazar F and Suárez B .Possibilities of the particle finite element method for fluid–soil–structure interaction problems, Comput Mech (2011) 48:307–318

Oñate E, Idelsohn SR, Celigueta MA, Rossi R (2008) Advances in the particle finite element method for the analysis of fluid–multibody interaction and bed erosion in free surface flows. Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 197(19–20):1777–1800

Oñate E, Rossi R, Idelsohn SR, ButlerK (2010) Melting and spread of polymers in fire with the particle finite element method. Int J Numer Methods Eng 81(8):1046–1072

Idelsohn S.R., Mier-Torrecilla M., Nigro N. and Oñate E., On the analysis of heterogeneous fluids with jumps in the viscosity using a discontinuous pressure field. Computational Mechanics, Vol. 46, pp. 115-124, 2010.

Mier-Torrecilla M., Geyer A., Phillips J., Idelsohn S. and Oñate E., Numerical simulations of negatively buoyant jets in an immiscible fluid using the Particle Finite Element Method. Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Submitted, January 2010.

Idelsohn S., Mier-Torrecilla M. and E. Oñate, Multi-fluid flows with the Particle Finite Element Method. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 198 (33-36), pp. 2750- 2767, 2009.

Oñate E., Idelsohn S.R., Del Pin F. and Aubry R., The particle finite element method. An overview. International Journal of Computational Methods, Vol. 1 (2), pp. 267-307, 2004.

Oñate E., Valls A. and García J., Modelling incompressible flows at low and high Reynolds numbers via a finite calculus-finite element approach, Journal of Computational Physics, Vol. 224, pp 332-351, 2007.

Oñate E., Valls A. and García J.,  Computation of turbulent flows using a finite calculus-finite element formulation, International Journal for Numerical Methods in Fluids,  Vol. 54, pp 609-637,  2007.

6. Decision support system for the enhanced prediction and management of oil spills

CIMNE has substantial experience in the development of numerical methods and expert systems for marine spill modeling and simulation and for prediction of spill evolution in the ocean in different weather and ocean conditions.

Concerning the spill simulation, CIMNE has developed different methods:

a) 3D simulation of the spill transport process, including convection effects (currents and wind), diffusion and vertical dispersion, evaporation, emulsification, etc.. The procedure is based on the Eulerian equations solution for spill transport in water using the finite element method.

b) Lagrangian simulation of the spilled particles transport by stochastic methods. The procedure is based on a Lagrangian particle layout over a three dimensional mesh.

c) Simulation of the transport process of the spill over large areas in the ocean. The procedure is based on solving the transport equation in a fluid medium in which the scope of velocities is known, using the finite element method coupled with fluid volume techniques. The method may be used in 3D. However, in many cases it is valid to use the formulation called 2.5D. This technique is based on a hypothesis of the spill’s behavior in the vertical direction, which allows a 2D discretization of the sea domain in which the spill spreads.

d) Integration of an expert system for decision support (DSS: Decision Support System) to predict near-real-time evolution of the spill. The DSS integrates sea conditions and weather, and the evolution of the spill simulation with artificial neural networks algorithms (ANN). Through adequate training of the ANN it is possible to predict the evolution of the spill during the hours following the spill for different sea conditions.

e) Development of a web interface on a GIS environment, able to integrate the models and above mentioned systems.

The methods referred to are implemented in GPU processors, allowing in many cases operating in real time.

CIMNE’s developments in the field of marine spills have been carried out in the framework of different national and EC conducted in collaboration with companies and organizations specializing in the subject.

Related projects

HIDRODIP – development of a system for preventing oil spills in harbors and open sea. Project sponsored by the Spanish Government. Reference: CIT-310100-2005-2. Duration: 01/01/2005 - 31/12/2005

SPILLREC - Enhanced Design and Manufacturing of Waterborne Spills Recovery Systems. EC-EUROPEAN COMMISSION. FP6-2004-SME-COOP. Referenca: COOP-CT-2006-032433. Duration: 01/09/2006 - 31/10/2008.

AIDMAR – Decision support system for identifying the origin of illegal spills in the sea. Project sponsored by the Spanish Government. Reference: CTM2008-06565-C03-03. Duration: 2009 - 2011.

Publications

[García-Espinosa J., Valls A. and Oñate E., ODDLS: A new unstructured mesh finite element method for the analysis of free surface flow problems. Int. Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Vol 76 (9), pp. 1297-1327, 2008.

7. Modeling and simulation of heterogeneous reactors

CIMNE has experience in the modeling of reactor mixing processes in the chemical and oil industry. In that field it has developed its own simulation methods based on the finite element method (FEM).

The computational method developed at CIMNE allows modeling of the flow in reactors provided with slow rotating agitators or with substantial rotation speeds, depending on the potential applications. It is also possible to incorporate, in the geometric model of the body, elements fixed to the chemical reactor, such as breakers to increase the flow turbulence. This is possible due to the combination of a rotary computational domain attached to the reactor blades, with another fixed domain containing the possible obstacles in the reactor’s body.

The model also allows for multiphase flow modeling as well as for the determination of the reactor’s fluid free surface. Both issues are addressed by using a level set function, which allows following the interfaces between fluids and the free surface, if it exists.

In all the problems approached, the finite element methods developed are based on so-called stabilization techniques, whose purpose is to allow the modeling of extreme regimes (large rotations, small viscosities, large reaction coefficients should such exist, etc.).

Related Projects

Development of a computer-aided methodology for enhanced design of axial and centrifugal fans. BRITE project of the EU (Basic Research for Industrial Technologies for Europe). BRITE EURAM Project Number 5076. Duration: 01/01/1992 – 31/12/1995.

Enhanced design of pressure gear pumps using environmentally acceptable hydraulic fluids (ECOPUMP). BRITE project of the EU (Basic Research for Industrial Technologies for Europe). BE95-1046. Duration: 01/01/1996 – 31/12/1998.

Porting and demonstration of a parallel software for enhanced aerodynamic and acoustic design of axial and centrifugal fans (FANPAR). ESPRIT project of the EU, within the METIER-CEPBA-TTN. Esprit 23706. Duration: 01/03/1997 – 30/09/1998.

Enhanced design and manufacturing of mini-hydraulic products (MINIHAP). GROWTH project of the EU. GDR1-1999-10343. Duration: 01/01/2000 – 31/01/2003.

New design and manufacturing processes for high pressure fluid power products (PROHIPP Project of the Sixth Framework Programme of the EU. NMP2-CT-2004-505466. Duration: 01/06/2004 – 31/05/2008.

Modelización numérica de flujo rotatorio. Aplicaciones al diseño y optimización de reactores químicos (FLUROT). Proyecto del Ministerio de Ciencia y Tecnología, Programa Nacional de Promoción General del Conocimiento. BFM2001-2637. Duration: 01/10/2001 – 30/09/2004.

Publications

Guillaume H. and R. Codina. A Chimera method based on a Dirichlet/Neumann (Robin) coupling for the Navier- Stokes equations. Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Vol. 192, pp. 3343-3377, 2003.

Guillaume H. and R. Codina. A Finite Element Method for the Solution of Rotary Pumps.
Computers & Fluids, Vol. 36, pp. 667-679, 2007.

Codina, R. U. Schäfer and E. Oñate. Mould filling simulation using finite elements. International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, Vol. 4, pp. 291-310, 1994.

R. Codina and O. Soto. Finite element simulation of the filling of thin moulds. International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Vol. 46 (9), pp. 1559-1573, 1999.

R. Codina and O. Soto, A numerical model to track two–fluid interfaces based on a stabilized finite element method and the level set technique. International Journal for Numerical Methods in Fluids, Vol. 4, (1-2), pp. 293-301, 2002.

8. CIMNE CFD CODES

CIMNE has developed various CFD codes to simulate specific problems in fluid dynamics of different complexity, including multi-phase flow, fluid-structure interaction, fluid-structure interaction-terrain combustion reaction, and other.

Many of these developments are integrated in a commercial code (Tdyn) which is sold worldwide by CIMNE’s spinoff technology based company: Compass Ingeniería y Sistemas SA (www.compassis.com).

CIMNE’s most recent developments and applications, including multiphase flow simulation with solid deposits are based on the finite element technique particles (PFEM) recently developed by CIMNE. This CFD code (based on PFEM) is still under development and it incorporates PFEM capabilities in the Tdyn code.

There is therefore the possibility of using the Tdyn commercial code (which includes a wide range of applications in fluid dynamics) as well as other last generation CIMNE’s R & D codes (such as PFEM based codes) versions of which have not yet reached the market.

Concerning PFEM’s ability to simulate deposition processes, it is highlighted that PFEM allows the simulation of solid depositions and following the track of the particles during deposition, including changes in the fluid’s geometry. This is possible by using the Lagrangian formulation PFEM, which monitors the movement of both solid particles and fluid, solving the continuum mechanics equations (for both the fluid and the solids contained) in each step of time through the finite element method.

CIMNE has successfully applied the PFEM technique to the study of particle depositions problem in fluids in tanks.

CIMNE is willing to contribute its existing computing technology to specific collaborative developments in this line of R & D.

Marketing of CIMNE’S CFD codes

COMPASS and CIMNE are open to consider different ways to market CFD codes developed in collaboration.

Also CIMNE and COMPASS will provide special conditions for use of these codes as part of R+D agreements.

CIMNE and COMPASS are also interested in the commercial exploitation of new developments of CFD codes as a result of collaborative R&D projects.

9. OVERVIEW OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN ENGINEERING (CIMNE)

9.1 Overview of CIMNE

The International Center for Numerical Methods in Engineering (CIMNE) is a research organization created in 1987 at the heat of the prestigious Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) as a partnership between the Government of Catalonia and UPC. The aim of CIMNE is the development of numerical methods and computational techniques for advancing knowledge and technology in engineering in applied sciences.

CIMNE’s headquarters are located at the heart of the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) in Barcelona. CIMNE has also premises at different buildings in several campus of UPC . CIMNE has also offices in Spain in Madrid, Terrassa and Ibiza. In 2005 CIMNE started its international expansion and since then has created the following international branches: CIMNE Latinoamerica (Non profit Foundation in Santa Fe, Argentina); CIMNE USA (Non profit Corporation in Washington DC, USA); CIMNE Singapore (Non profit Corporation in Singapore).

CIMNE employs some 200 scientists and engineers who work in the different offices of CIMNE around the world (Barcelona, Madrid, Washington DC (USA), Singapore, Santa Fe (Argentina), Beijing and Shanghai (China). CIMNE has also established a network of 28 Classrooms and Joint Labs in partnership with Universities in Spain and 10 Latin American countries.

The research and technology development (RTD) activities of CIMNE cover a wide spectrum of topics ranging from classical engineering fields such as civil, mechanic, environmental, naval, marine and offshore, food, telecommunication and bio-medical engineering, computer sciences and applied sciences such as material sciences bio-medicine, computational physics, nature, social and economic sciences and multimedia sciences, among others.

Over the list 25 years CIMNE has taken part in over 2000 RTD projects in cooperation with some 500 enterprises, universities and research centers worldwide.

The RTD activities of CIMNE are complemented by education and training activities via Master Courses, short courses and seminars, and CIMNE Coffee talks. CIMNE scientists supervise doctorate students in cooperation with several universities in Spain and worldwide.

The publication Department of CIMNE publishes books, monographs, research reports and technical reports. The Congress Department of CIMNE organizes international conferences and workshops in the different areas of CIMNE. It has organized 140 conferences since 1987.

CIMNE has a vocation for transferring the scientific and technical outputs from RTD projects to the industrial sector. This is effectively carried out in cooperation with companies from different sectors that exploit and market the CIMNE technology. CIMNE has actively promoted the creation of spin-off companies, some of them totally or partially owned by CIMNE, that play an important role in the industrialization and exploitation of CIMNE technology.

CIMNE maintains close cooperation links with many universities and RTD centers in the field of computational engineering and sciences worldwide. CIMNE has access to the computing facilities of several supercomputer centers in Spain and Europe.

CIMNE has been identified as one of the International Centers of Excellence on Simulation-Based Engineering and Sciences in a recent National Science Foundation (NSF) report [Glotzer et al., WTEC Panel Report on International Assessment of Research and Development in Simulation Based Engineering and Science. World Technology Evaluation Center (wtec.org), 2009].

The following sections briefly explain the strategy of CIMNE for education, dissemination research and technology transfer. We also describe the main academic and scientific activities, as well as the RTD lines of the CIMNE departments and the spin-off companies and products developed at CIMNE.

9.2 The cycle of ideas

9.2.1 From ideas to prototypes

The mission and activity of CIMNE can be clarified if we examine what we call the Cycle of Ideas. Figure 1 shows a scheme of the transit of an idea, from the instant it originates until it is transformed in an industrial and commercial success. Similarly as it happens in other biological environmental cycles (the water cycle or the cycle of plants, for instance), the cadencies and tempos are very important in the cycle of ideas.

Figure 1. The Cycle of Ideas

Ideas (and here we basically refer to scientific advances) usually originate in university environments, where many professionals have the mission of thinking, studying, investigating and eventually discovering new areas of knowledge. The idea (the new discovery) would be equivalent to a seed, in the sense that even being very important (essential) it is far from becoming a fruit.

The idea matures in its "tour" by the first quadrant of the Cycle (the University) until it produces tangible results (thesis, papers, computer programs, physical devices, etc.). These "results", if they are not filed and protected, can be easily lost. This leads to undesirable repetitions or duplications.

What to do then with the results of an idea? The best is that they can evolve until they reach the level of a prototype; i.e. until they became something (a software code, a system, a device, etc.) that works in a contrastable manner in the hands of a person different from the author. The transit of a result to a prototype is not a trivial one and it demands an organization, efficient and capable staff and resources that are usually far from the ordinary means of a university group. The best alternative is, therefore, that the idea follows its route on specialized institutions, adjacent to the university, such as CIMNE, with the specific mission to transform knowledge into tangible things (prototypes) in cooperation with other RTD organizations worldwide.

9.2.2 From prototypes to product and market

Can a prototype be released into the market with a guarantee of success? The answer is (probably) no. The distance between a prototype and a product is typically a long one. Getting a product is an objective in itself and mixing it up with RTD tasks is not advisable and leads to frustrations. Products should be developed in companies where specialists devote their time and talent exclusively to obtaining, validating and documenting a product, as well as to defining the marketing plan.

Once a product has finally reached the market, it would enter into the last quadrant of the Cycle of Ideas. There the objective is commercial success. In order to reach that, the company should establish the necessary alliances around the world. The Cycle ends up with the return of a part of the profits from the marketing of the product to the place from where the idea originated (the University).

Clearly, the "rotation speed" of the idea around the Cycle can be increased with the help of funding from external public and private sponsors, as it is metaphorically shown in the figure. These concepts are in fact very simple. However it is typically very difficult to put them into practice. Creating and transforming ideas and knowledge into useful products is the key mission of CIMNE.

9.3. Training and dissemination of research

9.3.1 Courses and Seminars

CIMNE hosts since 1989 a Master Course on Numerical Methods in Engineering in presential mode (in English) and in the e-learning mode (in Spanish). Both the Master and Ph.D. degrees are awarded by UPC. Since 2007 CIMNE is also the Secretariat and Managing organization of a Master in Computational Mechanics sponsored by the Erasmus Mundus Programme of the EC jointly organized by UPC and the Universities of Swansea (UK), Nantes (France) and Stuttgart (Germany).

CIMNE organizes regularly short courses (20-30 hours) on selected topics in computational engineering delivered by distinguished scientists and engineers. Some 25 research seminars of 1-2 hours duration are also organized annually at CIMNE.

The CIMNE Coffee talks are 40 minute presentations delivered by an invited scientist (typically a CIMNE researcher) with the aim of presenting the advances on a specific research line. The talks are preceded by coffee and pastry and are closed by an informal debate between all attendants. Some 30 CIMNE Coffee talks are annually held at the different CIMNE premises.

9.3.2 International Conferences

CIMNE is a regular organizer of international conferences on advanced topics of computational engineering and sciences. CIMNE has organized 105 conferences since 1987. The full list can be found in www.cimne.com.

9.3.3 Publications

CIMNE has an active policy for publication and dissemination of the outputs derived from the research activities (total of 550 papers since 1987). Apart from the publication in scientific journals, CIMNE has its own Publication Department which publishes regularly Books (130), Monographs (193), Research Reports (370) and Technical Reports (625). Number in parenthesis indicates the titles published by CIMNE since 1987. The list of the publications can be found in www.cimne.com.

9.3.4 Scientific Organizations

CIMNE is the permanent Secretariat of the following scientific organizations:

a) International Association for Computational Mechanics (www.iacm.info).

b) European Community on Computational Methods in Applied Sciences (www.eccomas.org).

c) Spanish Association for Numerical Methods in Engineering (www.cimne.upc.es/semni).

d) Pilot Center of European Research Community in Flow, Turbulence and Combustion www.cimne.upc.es/ercoftac).

e) Unesco Chair in Numerical Method in Engineering (www.cimne.com).

9.3.5 Visiting Scientists

CIMNE regularly hosts distinguished scientists from universities and research centers from Europe and worldwide. An average of 25 senior scientists and 30 junior scientists visit CIMNE annually in periods ranging from 2 weeks to 8 months.

9.3.6 The CIMNE Classroom Network

CIMNE Classrooms are physical spaces for cooperation in education and RTD activities created jointly by CIMNE and one or several universities around the world. The CIMNE Classrooms carry out training activities at graduate and postgraduate levels and RTD projects in cooperation with enterprises. Currently there are 24 CIMNE Classrooms in the following countries: Spain (6), Argentina (4), Mexico (3), Venezuela (3), Colombia (2), Brasil (2), Cuba (1), Chile (1), Perú (1) and El Salvador (1). For more information visit www.cimne.com.

9.4 RTD activity

9.4.1 Holistic view of CIMNE activities

The research and technological development (RTD) mission of CIMNE has evolved over the years towards providing comprehensive solutions for solving problems that affect human beings. This can be achieved by integrating existing knowledge in a particular field with quantitative information emanating for prediction methods (i.e. computational-based techniques) and experimental measurements. The link between these four concepts: the problem to be solved, computational methods, experimental methods and existing knowledge is well represented by the so-called magic tetrahedron shown in Figure 2.

Each of the nodes in the tetrahedron is connected to the other three by lines that represent information pipelines (possibly internet). The intensity of the flow along the lines that interconnect two nodes would vary depending on the requirements for solving the problem.

Figure 2. The magic tethraedron linking computations, data and knowledge for solving a problem

9.4.2 Research Lines

The research lines of CIMNE cover many basic and applied fields in computational engineering mechanics. This research is of application to a wide range of practical fields including civil, aerospace, mechanical, naval, marine, food production and telecommunication engineering. Other applications include manufacturing processes, energy and environmental problems. Some relevant problems where the computational methods developed at CIMNE are applied include (the list is no exhaustive): Structures with standard and composite materials; Analysis of dams; Structural analysis of vehicles; Study of the load carrying capacity and vulnerability of structures to natural hazards (floods, earthquake, tsunamis, etc.); Geotechnical engineering problems and ground water flow; Thermal-mechanical coupled problems in engineering; Numerical simulation of sheet metal forming , casting and welding processes; Fluid-structure interaction; Shape optimization in aeronautical engineering; Aerodynamics of aircrafts and land vehicles; Blast, crashworthiness and impact problems on structures; Ship hydrodynamics; Computational electromagnetics; Flow of granular materials; Food manufacturing processes; Mesh generation; Geometry and data interfacing; Graphic visualization ; Decision Support Systems in engineering; Large scale and parallel computing.

The research activities of CIMNE are carried out in cooperation with RTD organizations, universities and companies worldwide. The research is funded either via competitive proposals, for instance from the EC and the National Research Plan of Spain, or directly by industry. CIMNE has participated since 1987 in some 170 EC funded projects, out of a total of over 1200 RTD 8 projects (800 of which funded by industry). To this we must add 10 international projects and some 100 projects directly funded by industry.

We list below the key RTD areas of the different Departments of CIMNE. Namely: Aerospace Engineering; Bio-Medical Engineering; Building, Energy and Environment; Civil Engineering; Information and Communication Technology; Manufacturing Processes; Marine and Naval Engineering; Natura; Pre and post processing; Social and Economical Modeling and Technology Transfer Services.

Aerospace Engineering

Development of unstructured grid stabilized finite element and meshless methods for analysis of fluid flows. 3D adaptive mesh refinement techniques for compressible/incompressible flows.

Optimum shape design in aerodynamics combined with adaptive mesh refinement. Structural analysis of composite aerospace structures. Aeroelastic analysis of parachutes. New pre/post processing tools (GiD) for aerospace engineering. 3D unstructured mesh generation. New algorithms for multidisciplinary problems in aerospace engineering: aeroelasticity, thermal flows, electromagnetics, aeroacoustics, etc.

Bio-Medical Engineering

Numerical methods for modelling and simulation of biomechanical and bio-medical engineering problems. Simulation of the mechanics of the cardiovascular system and the heart. Study of the mechanics of the urology system. Fluid-dynamic analysis of the blood flow in vessels. Decision support systems in biomedical engineering.

Building, Energy and Environment

Numerical methods for analysis and design of energy sustainable constructions. Numerical methods for acoustic analysis and design of structures with enhanced materials. Methods for analysis of recycling processes of natural and artificial wastes for energy saving and environmental applications. Development of computational methods for analysis and design of wave power plants. Decision support systems for the energy and environment.

Civil Engineering

Structural analysis of civil constructions under static and dynamic loads: bridges, dams, buildings, harbor structures, hydraulic structures, etc. Numerical method for studying the safety and durability of structures and constructions. Optimization methods in structural engineering. Finite element methods for analysis of textile membranes and inflatable structures. Computational methods for analysis of structures with new materials. Numerical methods for multidisciplinary problems in civil engineering. New decision support systems for the construction sector integrating wireless sensor networks, data bases, calculation methods and AI technology.

Information and Communication Technology

New Internet tools for supporting management and training activities of individuals and organizations. Methods for integrating and managing wireless sensors in Internet platforms. Development of health monitoring methods for constructions and buildings using wireless sensors and ICT. Integration of geographic informations tools into decision support systems. Application of ICT to manufacturing processes in industry.

Manufacturing Processes

Finite element methods for analysis of sheet stamping processes. Numerical methods for analysis of mould filling, solidification and cooling in casting processes. Numerical methods for life predictions of manufactured parts. Optimum design methods for manufacturing processes in metal and plastic industry. Finite element methods for simulation of welding and riveting processes. Numerical methods for multidisciplinary problems in the manufacturing industry. Decision support systems for the forming and manufacturing industries.

Marine and Naval Engineering

Numerical methods for hydrodynamic analysis of vessels. Finite element methods for analysis of composite materials and structures in ships accounting for fluid-structure interaction effects. Numerical methods for analysis of off-shore constructions. Numerical methods for environmental problems in naval and marine engineering. Optimum shape design methods for ships. Numerical methods for multidisciplinary problems in naval and marine engineering. Decision support systems in naval and marine engineering, integrating wireless sensor networks, data bases, computer simulation methods and AI technology.

Natura

Water desalination and purification.. Chemical methods for energy storage. Climate adaptation.

Risk events studies.

Pre and post processing

Development and maintenance of the GiD pre and post processing system (www.gidhome.com). Development of methods for generating structured and unstructured meshes. Development of input data technology for large scale computational problems. Graphical visualization techniques for large scale simulation problems. Generation of input data for finite element analysis from medical images. Integrations of geographical information systems (GIS) with pre and post processing tools and finite element analysis codes.

Social and Economical Modeling

Multi-agent simulation models and tools for social and economic simulation. Analysis and modeling of business actor networks and value chains in the digital sector. Research into financial market dynamics using realistic multiagent simulations. Research in system-level financial risks and counter performativity of financial valuation and risk models.

Technology Transfer Services

Solution of multidisciplinary problems with the numerical method and software developed at CIMNE. Customization of software codes developed at CIMNE for specific applications. Validation of numerical methods and codes developed at CIMNE.

9.5 Technology transfer activities and spin-off companies

CIMNE has a vocation of transferring the outcoming of its RTD activities to the industrial sector. The technology transfer activities of CIMNE is materialized by providing services to companies, using CIMNE based technology and tools and by the exploitation and marketing of CIMNE technology and products via a partnership program with companies. This is mostly channeled via the network of spin-off companies created by CIMNE.

9.5.1 CIMNE technology services

CIMNE helps companies to solving problems in engineering and applied sciences by using the computational, experimental and knowledge-based technology accumulated in CIMNE since 1987. The industrial CIMNE partnership is established via direct contact, or by the joint participation in RTD projects with funding from external agencies at international (i.e. European Commission), or national level.

9.5.2 CIMNE spin-off companies

CIMNE has established a network of spin-off companies specialized in different fields of engineering and applied sciences. These companies, partially or totally owned by CIMNE, exploit and market worldwide the products and technology originally developed at CIMNE.

The industrial network of CIMNE-owned companies include the following (in order of creation).

STRUCTURALIA S.A.

Created in 2001 and 27% owned by CIMNE.

Structuralia provides e-learning and education services to the construction sector in Spain. The company was sold to the US Company KAPLAN (Washington Post holding) in June 2011 (www.structuralia.com).

COMPASS Ingeniería y Sistemas S.A.

Created in 2002 and 24% owned by CIMNE.

COMPASS specializes in development and market of software in the civil engineering, naval, marine and offshore sector. COMPASS also provides engineering services in these fields (www.compassis.com).

INGENIA AIE

Created in 2005 and 10% owned by CIMNE.

INGENIA AIE is an industrial cluster formed by CIMNE and 9 enterprises in Spain . INGENIA specializes in technology development and services in aeronautic engineering and the air and surface transport sectors (www.ingenia.aero).

CIMNE TECNOLOGIA S.A.

Created in 2012 and 100 owned by CIMNE.

The mission of CIMNE Tecnología is to act as a holding for the different companies created to market the technology and products of CIMNE.

SISTEMAS ENERGÉTICOS AVANZADOS, S.A.

Created in 2012 and 100% owned by CIMNE Tecnología S.A.

The mission of Sistemas Energéticos Avanzados (Advanced Energy Systems) is to industrialize and exploit the new information technology and system developed at CIMNE for energy efficiency management in buildings and urban communities.

INERGY S.A.

Created in 2012 and 50% owned by CIMNE Technology S.A.

The mission of INERGY is to market the information technology and system developed at CIMNE for energy efficiency management in engineering and architecture. INERGY has also as a partner the company GASSO Auditores SL, specialized in auditing services for municipalities and urban communities.

TECNOLOGÍAS AVANZADAS PARA EL OCIO S.L.

Created in 2012 and 100% owned by CIMNE Tecnología S.A.

Tecnologías Avanzadas para el Ocio (TAOC) (Advanced Technology for Leisure) specializes in providing and marketing services and products of interest to the tourism and leisure sectors. This includes APP and internet services for promoting touristic activities in beaches and sea areas (www.beaching.com) and multimedia activities for the audio and video industrial sectors, among others.

COMPUTATIONAL AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY S.A.

Created in 2012 and 100% owned by CIMNE Tecnología SA .

The mission of Computational and Information Technology (CITECHSA) is to provide engineers solutions to companies using numerical technology and software products developed at CIMNE.

BUILDAIR ASIA-PACIFIC INC

Created in 2012 and 20% owned by CIMNE Tecnología SA.

BuildAir Asia-Pacific , located in Singapore, specializes in distributing and marketing the inflatable structures and related technology of BuildAir SA in the Asia-Pacific region.

BUILDAIR Ingeniería y Arquitectura S.A.

Created in 2002 and 5% owned by CIMNE Tecnología SA.

BuildAir specializes in the design, construction, market and maintenance of inflatable structures for a variety of applications in engineering and architecture. The products of BuildAir include small to very large inflatable shelters and pavilions for leisure and industrial activities, aircraft hangars and emergency/logistic services, among other applications. BuildAir also develops and markets inflatable beams and inflatable bridges for application in the civil engineering and construction field, and the emergency and logistic sector, among other applications. 12

LYNKOS S.L.

Created in 2012 and 15% owned by CIMNE Tecnología S.A.

LYNCOS specializes in offering technology solutions, products and services to companies and organizations in the so-called internet of things sector.

FRESH WATER NATURE S.L.

Created in 2012 and 100% owned by CIMNE Tecnología SA.

Fresh Water Nature (FWN) specializes in the development and marketing of the fresh water production technology developed and patented by CIMNE. This technology can be effectively used for sea water desalinization by potabilization of water in an innovative and economical form.

PORTABLE MULTIMEDIA SOLUTION S.L.

Created in 2012 and 30% owned by TAOC SL.

The mission of the company is to develop and exploit innovative inflatable pavilions integrating state of the art, audio and video multimedia systems and technology for a variety of applications in the cultural, leisure and tourism sectors.

9.6 CIMNE. A partner for education, research and business opportunities in computation engineering and applied sciences

9.6.1 A partner for education in computation engineering and applied sciences

CIMNE and the Technical University of Catalonia (UPC) offer students of all nationalities the opportunity to accessing high education courses and degrees at Bachelor and M.S. levels in most areas of computational engineering and applied sciences. Courses are taught mainly at UPC or in partner universities of the Catalonian university network for specialities not covered by UPC. Students are tutored by CIMNE and UPC academic experts in the different fields.

9.6.2 A partner for research in computational engineering and applied sciences

CIMNE and UPC offer graduate students of all nationalities the opportunity to perform doctorate studies and research work aiming to obtaining a Ph.D. degree at UPC in a wide range of topics in engineering and applied sciences. Doctorate students are supervised by CIMNE and UPC specialists in the different fields. Opportunity exists for “sandwich” type of doctorate degrees allowing students to develop part of their doctorate at UPC and CIMNE premises and the other part at their home university under the joint supervision of academic staff from UPC/CIMNE and the home university from where the student originates.

9.6.3 CIMNE. A partner for business opportunities

CIMNE offers a partnership to companies and organizations worldwide for joint exploitation of products and services.