A new approach to computational fluid dynamics code validation is developed that gives proper consideration to experimental and simulation uncertainties. The comparison error is defined as the difference between the data and simulation values and represents the combination of all errors. The validation uncertainly is defined as the combination of the uncertainties in the experimental data and the portion of the uncertainties in the CFD prediction that can be estimated. This validation uncertainty sets the level at which validation can be achieved. The criterion for validation is that the magnitude of the comparison error must be less than the validation uncertainty. If validation is not accomplished, the magnitude and sign of the comparison error can be used to improve the mathematical modeling. Consideration is given to validation procedures for a single code, multiple codes and/or models, and predictions of trends. Example results of verification/validation are presented for a single computational fluid dynamics code and for a comparison of multiple turbulence models. The results demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed validation strategy. This new approach for validation should be useful in guiding future developments in computational fluid dynamics through validation studies and in the transition of computational fluid dynamics codes to design.
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December 1997
Research Papers
Uncertainties and CFD Code Validation Available to Purchase
H. W. Coleman,
H. W. Coleman
Propulsion Research Center, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899
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F. Stern
F. Stern
Iowa Institute of Hydraulic Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
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H. W. Coleman
Propulsion Research Center, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899
F. Stern
Iowa Institute of Hydraulic Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
J. Fluids Eng. Dec 1997, 119(4): 795-803 (9 pages)
Published Online: December 1, 1997
Article history
Received:
March 31, 1997
Revised:
August 4, 1997
Online:
January 22, 2008
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A commentary has been published:
Discussion: “Uncertainties and CFD Code Validation” (Coleman, H. W., and Stern, F., 1997, ASME J. Fluids Eng., 119, pp. 795–803)
Citation
Coleman, H. W., and Stern, F. (December 1, 1997). "Uncertainties and CFD Code Validation." ASME. J. Fluids Eng. December 1997; 119(4): 795–803. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2819500
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