#28: The biggest lie in the Simulation industry
And what I did about it once I found out the truth...
I’m on a mission to make traditionally complex topics like CFD, simulation and digital engineering clearer for Engineers and Researchers like you!
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“Simulation tools are only for experts…”
This is what I was told explicitly by a software re-seller when I reached out for help early in my engineering career.
Then I heard it from colleagues wherever I went (I worked at 9 different companies in 12 years as a contractor).
It was like a social cult imposing ideas on me.
I fell for it and it lead me to believe I wasn't good or worthy enough…
That, only ‘specialists’ were to use the tools.
That, only the smartest, multi PhD-wielding, bearded, independent researchers knew how to use them properly.
Here's the thing: I've always been far too curious and stubborn to learn about anything technical - car engines, electronics, building a PC from components etc.
If I latch onto it with a passion and drive for the thing, it reveals all.
Summers and weekends would go by without a peep.
I did the same thing in school with Algebra and in more recent years with C++ programming.
Once I get obsessed, I need to resolve and find out everything I can about that thing.
I spent many years using simulation tools as an Design Engineer (not Aerodynamicist or Fluid dynamics expert of any kind).
I proved you can use simulation tools with clarity and intent, dispelling the myth I was expected to believe.
The physics can be learnt and there are many to learn, with each specific case needed in-depth knowledge built up from principles - depending on how deep you want to understand the problem.
I successfully used simulation tools with this attitude and method in industry.
You can too.
My content is a starting point for you to help adopt this mindset and get comfortable with simulation tools for valuable insights.
Making CFD and simulation accessible through better education and resources
I once read that in order to learn more you need to empty your metaphorical cup.
I stated my mission at the very top of this email: to make traditionally complex topics clear for Engineers that need it.
I've been doing this for a year and a half at this point and I've had an incredible response from most readers, confirming the clarity my content brings.
Here's a collection of my most informative, insightful posts as voted by my readers:
Understanding the CFD mesh
Videos can make CFD simulation accessible
A collection of OpenFOAM cases on GitHub
Simulation LinkedIn profiles you should follow
My experience as an Engineer before breakthrough results
Best hardware choices for CFD tools like OpenFOAM
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/nassermushtaq_cfd-cae-fluids-activity-7353744468929380352-oWuP?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android&rcm=ACoAAAIPe2wBt57Gds3QJLyrdCZZ7ZZKfZ97KPQ
Real-world engineering isn't easy
Faster physics using the GPU
Understanding fluid turbulence using a case study
Simulation is not reserved for experts
Running OpenFOAM with Linux cheatsheet
OpenFOAM resource collection
OpenFOAM boundary conditions demystified
CFD on hard vs easy mode
De-featuring your CAD model for CFD
There’s many more posts on my LinkedIn profile! Take a look.
An even more intuitive way to learn CFD and simulation concepts
If you don’t already know I’m building a CFD sandbox / learning aid with the same intent as my content - make simulation and CFD tools crystal clear in how they work and how to use them effectively.
Progress so far:
If this interests you, learn more and join the waitlist here!
A few parting words
Simulation is NOT reserved for experts.
You just have to put in the work to make sense of these amazing tools we have at our disposal.
They are built from intuitive, physical laws we all know as children.
Get confidence from this fact alone.
Thank you for reading and keep simulating with clarity.
Until next time.
Nasser
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Disclaimer:
All content in this post and newsletter is my own production and do not reflect the opinions or positions of my employers, partners or associates.