Product Innovation Through Computational Prototypes and Supercomputing

Changing from physical prototype-based product design to computational (virtual) prototype-based product design requires more than leading edge computational engineering codes, joint R&D efforts with a Department of Energy Laboratory, brilliant and dedicated researchers, and meticulous verification, validation, and uncertainty quantification. For the most difficult engineering design problems, most of these are necessary but not sufficient. In every case, the designers, engineers, scientists, and their management must also believe that the benefits in time savings and more creative new products justify the cost and risk of conversion. In the extreme case, an impending crisis may force conversion even in the face of strong resistance. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company's experience illustrates a successful, crisis-driven transition to virtual prototype-based product design.