2nd ICMC Workshop on Recent Advances in Computational Mechanics for Industry
Location: Auditório Fernão Stella de Rodrigues Germano, Campus 1, Bloco ICMC-6, USP – São Carlos/SP
Dates: May 4-5, 2026
Confirmed speakers
Álvaro L. G. A. Coutinho
UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Talk information
Title: Recent Advances in Data-driven Methods for Coupled Fluid Flow and Transport
Abstract: In recent years, there has been significant interest in using data-driven methods to solve problems in science and engineering, particularly for large-scale coupled fluid-flow and transport problems. Numerical simulations for these problems can be costly, making data-driven methods valuable for understanding and improving the efficiency of state quantification and prediction. This talk will review recent advances in data-driven methods, including dynamic mode decomposition, manifold learning, graph neural networks, and neural operators (Fourier Neural Operators, DeepOnet, and hybrid schemes), as applied to coupled fluid-flow and transport problems. These problems are of interest in sustainable resource exploration, geophysics, and various industrial applications. The talk will show how data-driven information can improve the efficiency of numerical simulation software, explore parametric manifolds for unseen scenarios, and reconstruct high-dimensional simulations with lower-dimensional structures in a feasible time.
Bruno Roccia
University of Bergen, Norway
Talk information
Title: Can Data Predict Nonlinear Dynamics? Basins, Chaos, and Synchronization in a Data-Driven Computational Mechanics Framework.
Abstract: As engineering systems become larger, more flexible, and increasingly exposed to variable operating conditions, understanding their nonlinear dynamics becomes essential. In many applications, the key question is no longer only whether a model can reproduce a measured trajectory, but whether it can capture the underlying dynamical structure: bifurcations, limit cycles, quasiperiodic motion, chaotic attractors, and synchronization basins. This talk addresses that question through the lens of data-driven computational mechanics (DDCM), a framework that keeps physics constraints and structure-preserving time integration in the loop while replacing explicit constitutive laws with discrete constitutive data. This talk presents a hybrid variational data-driven framework for nonlinear dynamical systems and discuss how it performs across three benchmark classes: the forced Duffing oscillator, the Duffing–van der Pol oscillator, and the inertial Kuramoto model. These examples provide a progression from nonlinear resonance and bistability to limit cycle oscillations, quasiperiodicity, chaos, and collective synchronization. The results show that the approach can reproduce resonance curves, bifurcation structures, limit cycles, the global geometry of chaotic attractors, and much of the synchronization basin, while also revealing where errors emerge first: unstable branches, thin basin boundaries, and fine fractal structure. The central message of the talk is that, for nonlinear systems, predictive power should not be judged only by trajectory accuracy, but by geometric fidelity: the ability to preserve attractors, basins, and transitions between regimes. Framed this way, DDCM offers a promising route toward physics-constrained, data-driven simulation of complex nonlinear phenomena in applications ranging from oscillatory engineering systems to synchronization problems in energy and network dynamics.
Cássio Machiavelli Oishi
UNESP, Presidente Prudente, Brazil
Talk information
Title: SciML Frameworks for Viscoelastic Dynamics: From Nonlinear Manifolds to SINDy
Abstract: We present a Scientific Machine Learning (SciML) pipeline for the construction of parsimonious reduced-order models for viscoelastic flows. Our approach leverages a hybrid architecture combining linear and nonlinear dimensionality reduction with SINDy to identify the underlying governing equations in a latent space. We develop physics-informed metrics designed to preserve the underlying topological structure of viscoelastic flows, ensuring that reduced-order representations remain physically consistent.
Geovane Augusto Haveroth
ICMC-USP, São Carlos, Brazil
Talk information
Title: Advances in Topology Optimization for Metal Additive Manufactured Components
Abstract: Topology Optimization (TO) is widely used to enhance structural design; however, the resulting structures often exhibit significant geometric complexity, which challenges traditional subtractive manufacturing methods. Additive Manufacturing (AM) provides a viable alternative to overcome this limitation, as evidenced by the growing number of TO studies that consider AM technologies. Despite its potential, metal AM faces specific manufacturing constraints, such as overhanging surfaces, that must be accounted for in the TO process to ensure high-quality, manufacturable designs. Various strategies have been proposed to address these challenges, ranging from purely geometric constraints to formulations that incorporate physical aspects of the layer-by-layer AM process. In this context, the talk focuses on TO formulations for metal AM developed in collaboration with Professor José Alberto Cuminato, who is honored at this workshop.
Hugo Luiz Oliveira
UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
Talk information
Title: Computational mathematics applied to Wheatley heart valve mechanics
Abstract: Recent studies have indicated an increase in cardiovascular diseases in developing countries, particularly valvular disorders caused by rheumatic fever, which are affecting younger populations. In severe cases, when the natural valve cannot be repaired, replacing it with a prosthetic valve may be the most effective way to ensure the patient’s survival. Existing artificial valves have limitations, such as early deterioration and the risk of clot formation. To address these issues, the Wheatley Valve introduces an innovative S-shaped leaflet design that enhances the washout effect in the aortic root, thereby reducing the risk of thrombus formation and the need for extensive antiplatelet therapy. In this talk, we will discuss the latest results regarding Wheatley valve modelling and how this approach can be used in conjunction with new devices such as heart pumps and systemic loops.
João Luiz Azevedo
ITA, São José dos Campos, Brazil
Talk information
Title: A Study on the Use of Nonlinear Eddy-Viscosity Models in Aerodynamic Applications
Abstract: The talk will describe aspects of an ongoing effort to assess the use of nonlinear eddy-viscosity models in the simulation of aerodynamic flows relevant to the aeronautical industry. The development of this research is driven by the need for a cost-effective approach to improving flow prediction accuracy for industrial aeronautical applications. Despite the fact that the test cases here addressed are still fairly simple from a geometric perspective and are clearly verification/validation cases, they are quite representative of the flow phenomena of interest for aeronautical applications. The overall aim of this research is to investigate nonlinear eddy-viscosity models as a viable alternative for such applications. Two explicit algebraic Reynolds stress models (EARSMs) are employed here, coupled with the 3-D Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations. Results for a few test cases will be described. They show that these models have the potential to enhance the accuracy of external aerodynamic flow simulations, while keeping a computational cost comparable to those of linear eddy-viscosity turbulence models. The latter models still remain the industry standard for routine calculations, at least in aeronautical applications.
Jonathan Evans
University of Bath, UK
Talk information
Title: The extrudate-swell singularity for Phan–Thien–Tanner and Giesekus viscoelastic fluids
Abstract: The behaviour of the stress singularity for Phan–Thien–Tanner and Giesekus viscoelastic fluids is determined for extrudate-swell (also termed die-swell). In this flow, the fluid exits a channel (or die) as a jet and forms a free-surface flow. In the presence of a Newtonian solvent viscosity, the solvent stress dominates the viscoelastic polymer stresses near the transition point from the solid (stick) surface inside the die to the free (slip) surface outside the die. Consequently, the Newtonian solvent stress is O(r−(1−λ0)) , where r is the radial distance to the transition point and λ0 is the Newtonian eigenvalue (dependent upon the angle of separation between the solid and free surfaces). This eigenvalue decreases from unity at 133o down to 1/3 at 270o, this being the relevant separation angle range for extrudate-swell. We show that the viscoelastic polymer stresses are less singular with O(r−4(1−λ0)/(5+λ0)) for PTT, and O(r−(1−λ0)(3−λ0)/4) for Giesekus. The viscoelastic polymer stresses require boundary layers at both the solid and free surfaces, with the role of those at the freesurface being particularly important to arrest the growth of the viscoelastic stresses. Comments will also be made on the Oldroyd-B model.
Maicon Ribeiro Correa
IME-USP, São Paulo, Brazil
Talk information
Title: Sequential Coupling Strategies for Black-Oil flow in Poroelastic Media
Abstract: In this talk, we briefly discuss a Black-Oil model in Poroelastic media, where the conservation of the corresponding component densities replaces the traditional black-oil conservation volume equations at standard conditions. The extended flow equations, describing the movement of the aqueous, oleic, and gaseous phases, incorporate new complex features associated with transient porosity and are rewritten in a proper Lagrangian formulation. Such a model overcomes the necessity of keeping track of the dynamic hysteretic behavior of the bubble point pressure, treating the phase appearance by assessing the excess concentration relative to the saturation limit in the oil phase. Then, we study two sequentially coupled fixed-stress algorithms, where the subsystems for flow, transport and deformation are solved iteratively by appropriate numerical schemes. The potential of the proposed coupling strategies is illustrated in numerical simulations of black-oil flow problems in poroelastic media.
Michael Vynnycky
University of Limerick, Ireland
Talk information
Title: Modelling gas-solid flow in an industrial countercurrent moving bed reactor
Abstract: A blast furnace is a moving bed reactor in which iron is produced from ferrous materials. As one of the most important industrial technologies for ironmaking, it is therefore natural that mathematical modelling and numerical simulation in this field has been extensive. A primary step in this is to understand the countercurrent gas-solid flow that occurs in the reactor. Although a variety of approaches have been tried over the last forty years or so, some of these are either too simple, in terms of their flow modelling assumptions, or, in the case of discrete element methods, require too much computational time. As a compromise, we focus on a CFD-based two-phase Euler-Euler model, of the type originally applied to industrial fluidized beds. However, it seems that the countercurrent nature of the flow proves even a challenge for this approach; “old-fashioned” asymptotics explains why and even offers a solution.
Milton Assunção
UFSCar, Sorocaba, Brazil
Talk information
Title: A Computational Framework for Modelling Hydrodynamic Effects on Polymorphism in Crystallization
Abstract: Polymorphism is a phenomenon whereby a solid substance can exist in more than one crystalline form. Different polymorphic structures exhibit distinct physical and chemical properties, such as crystal morphology, solubility, and stability, which directly affect product performance. In pharmaceutical applications, these differences can influence key attributes such as drug bioavailability and manufacturability. From a process design perspective, controlling the polymorphic form during crystallization is therefore essential to ensure the required product quality. In this talk, we present a minimal population balance model (PBM) describing nucleation, growth, and polymorph competition during antisolvent crystallization. The model consists of two nonlinear hyperbolic equations governing the number densities of two polymorphs, coupled with an ordinary differential equation for the solute concentration in the solvent. Analysis of the governing equations reveals a degeneracy that leads to the formation of shocks. These features are examined using the method of characteristics and numerical simulations based on finite-volume methods. The simulation results illustrate how gravity, initial supersaturation, and antisolvent fraction influence the crystallization behaviour of both polymorphs.
Norberto Mangiavacchi
UERJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Talk information
Title: Numerical Modeling of Magnetic Particle Recovery in Laminar Flows: An Eulerian Two-Way Coupling Approach
Abstract: Magnetic particle recovery from fluid flows is an increasingly important mechanism in applications ranging from wastewater treatment to biomedical and microfluidic systems. In this talk, we present a numerical framework for the simulation of magnetically responsive particles suspended in laminar channel flows under externally applied, non-uniform magnetic fields. The model adopts a continuum Eulerian description for the dispersed phase, accounting for particle inertia and two-way coupling with the carrier fluid. Magnetophoretic forces arising from magnetic field gradients are incorporated into the transport equations, and the resulting system is solved using a finite element formulation. We discuss the underlying assumptions, numerical implementation, and key dimensionless parameters governing particle capture efficiency. Results illustrate the interplay between flow conditions, magnetic field intensity, and particle properties, highlighting regimes of effective recovery and spatial deposition patterns. The framework, developed in collaboration between institutions in Brazil, Paraguay, and the Netherlands, is general and can be extended to a wide range of engineering systems involving magnetic particles in suspension.
Santiago Marquez Damian
Universidade Tecnológica Nacional, Argentina
Talk information
Title: Coupled effects of surface texture and temperature-induced viscosity changes on journal bearing performance
Abstract: This talk addresses the gap between mass-conserving and thermal models in the study of textured journal bearings by proposing a mass-conserving, two-phase cavitation model that incorporates global thermal effects. The aim is to assess the impact of surface texturing on load-carrying capacity, friction, and temperature in hydrodynamic journal bearings. The pressure predictions are validated against full Navier–Stokes CFD simulations, while the friction and thermal responses are validated using experimental data for both smooth and textured bearings. The results demonstrate that friction-induced temperature rises modify bearing performance in the presence of textures, confirming that thermal effects are a critical factor and that conventional isothermal assumptions may be misleading for the accurate analysis and design of textured journal bearings.
Sean McKee
Strathclyde University, UK
Talk information
Title: Euclidean Geometry that Eluded Euclid
Abstract: We shall discuss several problems that eluded Euclid and, in doing so, suggest a couple of unsolved geometrical problems. We shall start with Pythagoras and show that it is only a special case of Carnot’s theorem. We then consider Johnson’s circle theorem and provide a classical proof using rhombi, parallelograms and congruent triangles. The problem of N-polygons circumscribing circles as N tends to infinity is considered: the issue here is, is the radii of the circumscribing circles bounded or unbounded and, if so, what is the bound? We then turn our attention to the Morley trisector theorem which states that the triangle formed by joining the trisectors of each angle is always an equilateral triangle no matter the shape of the original triangle. Finally, we consider Viviani’s theorem and generalizations of it.
Schedule
| May 4th | May 5th |
|---|---|
|
8h45 – 9h10: Opening ceremony |
|
|
9h10 – 9h50: Sean McKee |
9h10 – 9h50: João Azevedo |
|
9h50 – 10h30: Coffee break and poster session |
9h50 – 10h30: Coffee break and poster session |
|
10h30 – 11h10: Álvaro Coutinho |
10h30 – 11h10: Norberto Mangiavacchi |
|
11h10 – 11h50: Bruno Roccia |
11h10 – 11h50: Santiago Marquez |
|
14h00 – 14h40: Maicon Correa |
14h00 – 14h40: Jonathan Evans |
|
14h40 – 15h20: Geovane Haveroth |
14h40 – 15h20: Cássio Oishi |
|
15h20 – 16h00: Coffee break and poster session |
15h20 – 16h00: Tribute session celebrating the 70th birthday of Prof. José Alberto Cuminato |
|
16h00 – 16h40: Hugo Oliveira |
16h00 – 17h00: Coffee break and best poster award |
|
16h40 – 17h20: Michael Vynnycky |
|
|
17h20 – 18h00: Milton Assunção |