TAU
TAU is a software for the numerical solution of compressible flow equations on unstructured or hybrid computational meshes. It uses common physical flow and turbulence models (RANS, hybrid RANS/LES, LES, laminar-turbulent transition) as well as numerical algorithms for efficient steady-state and time-accurate simulations (e.g. multi-grid, dual time-stepping method). The automatic partitioning of the numerical grid into flow regions to be simulated in parallel allows the efficient utilisation of high-performance computers (HPC). Advanced techniques such as mesh deformation and adaptation, mesh overlapping (Chimera) and rigid body rotation make TAU particularly suitable for complex aerodynamic problems in the aerospace industry. The adjoint version of the flow solver can be used for efficient, gradient-based aerodynamic design optimisation. Seamless integration into the FlowSimulator simulation and software environment also allows integration into multidisciplinary analyses and optimisation processes.
TAU has thus established itself as an important tool for aerodynamic simulation tasks at DLR and is also widely used in the German and European aerospace industry as well as in research.
Key features
- 2nd order finite volume method using dual cell-vertex metric
- explicit (Runge-Kutta) and implicit time integration methods (Backward-Euler)
- various turbulence and transition models (SA, SST, RSM, γ-Reϴ,t, eN method)
- scale-resolving simulations using hybrid RANS/LES and LES
- MPI-based communication for distributed computing on high-performance computers (HPC)
- techniques for rigid body motion, mesh deformation, adaptation and overlap (Chimera)
- linear frequency domain and adjoint solvers
- integration into multidisciplinary simulation environment FlowSimulator
- dedicated extension of capabilities and models available for space applications
Areas of application
Over the years, TAU has established itself as a standard tool for numerical flow simulation in aerospace engineering. In aircraft aerodynamics, TAU is used for e.g. the design of climate-friendly configurations, engine and propeller integration issues, highly accurate predictions at the edge of the flight envelope or multidisciplinary analyses including structural deformation and moving control surfaces ("virtual flight test"). Dedicated extensions for hypersonic flows are used to simulate the aero- and thermodynamics of rocket launches and spacecraft during re-entry. Other applications include the simulation of helicopters, wind turbines and the interaction of aircraft with the atmosphere.
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License notice
Access to this software can only be granted under certain conditions on the basis of a license agreement. Certain restrictions apply. Please contact us if you are interested in a license. Please note that we do not conclude license agreements with private individuals or with organisations outside the EEA.