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QCFD · Project

Quantum Computing Software for High-Precision Fluid Flow and Thermal Design

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Imagine trying to predict how air or water moves using a map that is too blurry to see the small details. Current computers have to simplify the math to get an answer, which often leads to mistakes. This project uses quantum computers to see every tiny detail perfectly without needing those shortcuts. It is like switching from a rough sketch to a high-definition 3D model for everything from car cooling to ship hulls.

By the numbers
8
consortium partners
10
total deliverables
25%
industry ratio in consortium
The business problem

What needed solving

Current fluid dynamics simulations are too slow or inaccurate because they rely on simplifications to fit classical computer limits. This forces companies to compromise on design precision or spend excessive time on computations.

The solution

What was built

A quantum software toolset and an interface for OpenFOAM. It includes tensor-network methods and gate-level simulations to solve fluid flow problems.

Audience

Who needs this

EV Battery Thermal EngineersAerospace AerodynamicistsMarine Vessel DesignersChemical Plant Process Engineers
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Automotive
enterprise
Target: Electric Vehicle Manufacturer

If you are an EV manufacturer dealing with battery overheating and efficiency loss — this project developed quantum algorithms that optimize battery cooling. This allows for more precise thermal management to increase vehicle efficiency.

Aerospace
enterprise
Target: Aircraft Designer

If you are an aircraft designer dealing with complex airflow simulations that take too long or are inaccurate — this project developed a quantum software interface for OpenFOAM. This enables the resolution of all physical scales to improve aerodynamic design.

Maritime
mid-size
Target: Shipbuilder

If you are a shipbuilder dealing with the high computational cost of simulating sea vessel hull resistance — this project developed a quantum algorithmic tool. It aims to provide these simulations at a small fraction of the cost required by classical methods.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost or price of this software?

Based on available project data, pricing information is not provided as the project is currently in the research and development phase.

Can this be used at an industrial scale today?

The project is currently benchmarking algorithms on emulators and early quantum hardware. Full industrial scale depends on the availability of future quantum flagship hardware.

How is the IP and licensing handled?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not disclosed, though the software is being designed to interface with the open-source standard OpenFOAM.

How does this integrate with my current tools?

The project is creating a direct interface between the quantum software and OpenFOAM, which is the industry standard for computational fluid dynamics.

What is the timeline for deployment?

The project period runs from 2022-11-01 to 2027-04-30, indicating that final results and hardware requirements will be clarified by early 2027.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is heavily academic, with 5 universities and 1 research institute, but maintains a 25% industry presence through 2 SMEs. This balance suggests the project is focused on fundamental algorithmic breakthroughs while keeping a link to practical application in the automotive and transport sectors.

How to reach the team

University of Hamburg

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to explore how quantum CFD can optimize your thermal management systems.