Guide to credible computer simulations of fluid flows

Abstract

The significance of computer simulations depends solely on their credibility. A user of computer products, simulations and software, expects that these products are credible for the intended use. Because no standards exist for fluid-flow simulations by which to establish this credibility, a guide is presented here. The credibility is established by conducting verification and validation of simulation models and certification of simulations and of simulation software. Verification assesses whether the problem is solved correctly and estimates the level of computational accuracy of simulations; validation determines whether the right problem is solved and assesses the level of the validity of the simulation model by estimating the degree to which simulations accurately represent reality. These processes are achieved by identifying the intended uses of the simulations and the sources of uncertainties in them and by conducting sensitivity-uncertainty analyses. Certification determines 1) whether a software in terms of its logic, conceptual and computational models, procedures, rules, and documentation and 2) whether the simulations derived from the software are in compliance with specified requirements.