Laser Based Computing Revolutionising Engineering Simulations
In a ground-breaking move set to revolutionise engineering simulations, LightSolver has joined forces with Ansys to integrate laser-based computing into computer-aided engineering (CAE) modelling.
This partnership aims to accelerate simulations across automotive, aerospace, and other critical industries, promising to deliver faster and more efficient computational solutions.
Harnessing Light for Computation
At the heart of this collaboration is LightSolver’s innovative all-optical Laser Processing Unit™ (LPU). Unlike traditional high-performance computing (HPC) systems that rely on electronic processing, the LPU utilises laser interactions to tackle large and complex problems at the speed of light. This approach is particularly advantageous for tasks requiring extensive iterations, such as optimisation problems and simulations addressing global challenges like transport scheduling, supply chain optimisation, financial risk management, and climate modelling.
Currently, LightSolver offers a digital platform that emulates the LPU’s functionality, providing accelerated computations for specific use cases. In collaboration with Ansys, the two companies have explored advanced computing methods, successfully testing LightSolver’s digital platform on various implicit mechanical analysis scenarios. These tests demonstrated a reduction in floating-point operations and storage requirements, leading to shorter product development cycles, more accurate design insights, and cost savings for companies utilising complex engineering models.
Accelerating Multiphysics Simulations
Multiphysics simulations, such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA), often involve calculating dynamics for billions of grid points across numerous time steps—a process that can take from hours to weeks. In the tested cases, LightSolver optimised sparse matrix reordering within the Ansys LS-DYNA solver, reducing the computational load and enabling faster run times.
Dr Ruti Ben-Shlomi, CEO and co-founder of LightSolver, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We’re excited to partner with Ansys and augment the value of their multiphysics simulation tools through acceleration. Modelling in computer-aided engineering remains one of the most computationally intensive workloads requiring specialised HPC infrastructure. We’re looking forward to providing clients with increased value as our hardware platform continues to evolve.”
The Future of All-Optical Computing
Founded in 2020 by physicists from the Weizmann Institute, LightSolver is developing an all-optical supercomputer capable of solving complex computational problems at unprecedented speeds. By leveraging the interference patterns of lasers, the LPU can address challenges previously limited by electronic constraints, all while fitting into a standard rack unit and operating at room temperature.
The company has attracted significant investment from TAL Ventures, Entree Capital, IBI Tech Fund, Angular Ventures, Maverick, and Artofin. Additionally, LightSolver has received a €12.5 million grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to advance its all-optical supercomputer.
Implications for the Engineering Community
The integration of LightSolver’s laser-based computing with Ansys’s simulation software represents a significant leap forward for the engineering community. By accelerating complex simulations, engineers can achieve more accurate results in less time, facilitating innovation and efficiency across various sectors.
As industries continue to grapple with increasingly complex design challenges, the need for rapid and precise simulations becomes ever more critical. The LightSolver-Ansys partnership addresses this need head-on, offering a glimpse into the future of engineering simulations powered by light-speed computations.
A Bright Horizon Ahead
The collaboration between LightSolver and Ansys heralds a new era in engineering simulations, where the fusion of laser-based computing and advanced simulation software paves the way for unprecedented speed and efficiency. As this technology matures, it holds the promise of transforming how industries approach complex problem-solving, driving innovation and progress across the board.
In conclusion, the partnership between LightSolver and Ansys is poised to deliver significant advancements in CAE modelling, offering faster simulations and more efficient computational solutions for automotive, aerospace, and other key industries. By harnessing the power of laser-based computing, this collaboration sets the stage for a future where engineering challenges are met with unparalleled speed and precision.
