Exciting advanced computer-aided-engineering (CAE) software just released

Building further on its strength in developing the most advanced computer-aided-engineering (CAE) software, Ricardo plc – one of the world’s foremost independent automotive engineering and management consulting firms – announced the release of the latest version of its WAVE engine simulation software, version 7.1. This version builds upon the strong base of WAVE 7 – a major upgrade released in 2005 – which brought industry firsts in 3-D pre-processing for 1-D gas dynamics, kinetic aftertreatment models and utilization of networked computers.

Version 7.1 is the fourth WAVE release in three years, representing Ricardo Software’s on-going commitment to provide the most advanced 1-D gas dynamics software in the industry. The software will be on display (booth #1938) at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) 2006 World Congress held April 3-6 at Detroit’s Cobo Center.

“WAVE 7.1 is essential to the development of the latest fuel-efficient and low-emission vehicles worldwide,” said Steve Sapsford, director of Ricardo Software. “This market-leading tool includes significant enhancements in pre- and post-processing interfaces, as well as new models for diesel exhaust aftertreatment, providing additional analytical capabilities for engineers engaged in the development of the next-generation of clean diesels.”

Bringing some of the most advanced features and capabilities in one- dimensional gas dynamics, Ricardo’s WAVE 7.1 – used in the design of automotive engines and associated vehicle systems – is the latest update to its WAVE engine modeling package. A few of the advanced new features of WAVE 7.1 include:

— Heat Exchanger Model – The new Heat Exchanger model allows users to enter commonly available performance maps of efficiency and pressure-drop into WaveBuild and WAVE will calibrate the system to produce the expected behavior.

— R-CAT ECT Models – This feature offers one- or three-dimensional models for the diesel oxidation catalyst and allows users to link to WAVE’s diesel particulate filter model to simulate the entire diesel after-treatment system. In addition, the enhanced system introduces the option to link to an external, user-written model, as well as a new link to Reaction Design’s KINetics module.

— WavePost Enhancements – Streamlined handling of multiple WAVE and external data sets and automatic creation of key engineering speed-sweep plots and data tables.

— WaveMesher Duct Profile Tool – Viewing tool for the duct diameter profile versus length, to help decide the best discretization of duct sections.

Ricardo Software offers a portfolio of advanced simulation software for engine and powertrain design. Anchored by WAVE, a market-leading engine performance and 1-D gas dynamics code, Ricardo’s software suite also includes VECTIS, ENGDYN, VALDYN, PISDYN and RINGPAK. When integrated with industry- standard analysis, computer-aided design and finite element packages, Ricardo Software facilitates the robust “analysis-led design process” practiced by Ricardo and leading original equipment manufacturers around the world.

With its North American headquarters in Van Buren Twp., Mich., Ricardo has been a world-leading vehicle system and powertrain technology provider for automotive manufacturers, heavy-duty manufacturers and tier one suppliers since 1915.

Ricardo is the premium global deep-content engineering and management consulting partner for automotive, commercial vehicle and related industry sectors. The company provides complete engineering services from strategy through product concept, design release and validation, and all phases of the product lifecycle. Ricardo technical expertise lies in powertrain and driveline, vehicle engineering, hybrid and fuel cell technologies, controls and electronics, niche volume manufacturing and advanced simulation software.