FUN4D: A New Paradigm for Time-Dependent Simulations

We propose a radically new methodology for time-dependent flow simulations in four-dimensional (4D) space-time domains. Our methodology fully couples space and time, effectively treating time as a fourth spatial dimension. The space-time simulations will be carried out on adapted, 4D unstructured grids for maximum efficiency and flexibility. Our method will extend NASA’s state-of-the-art CFD solver FUN3D (https://fun3d.larc.nasa.gov) to 4D, thereby creating FUN4D, in order to effectively use modern compute hardware and platforms for high-performance computing (HPC), and improve accuracy and efficiency of aerodynamic simulations beyond current limitations.

NASA’s ARMD will be the primary beneficiary through more efficient simulations of unsteady phenomena. Turbomachiney problems and maneuvering aircraft using active-control devices are representative cases. In addition, the entry, descent, and landing (EDL), propulsion, and heat management capabilities of STMD will be positively impacted. Furthermore, defense customers, such as ARL, AFRL, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and many others, stand to benefit.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.