Steinbeis Transfer Center Material Simulation and Process Optimization

We support companies in the efficient development, optimisation and validation of materials, components and processes – using data and simulation, in a transparent and scalable manner.

• Conducting application- and requirement-specific multiphysics simulation studies, including systematic parameter variations, using the Pace3D simulation framework
• Use of hybrid methods that combine physics-based modelling with ML- and AI-based enhancements to efficiently explore large and complex parameter spaces
• Comprehensive data analysis using modern data science methods, including machine learning and AI
• Evaluation of process-structure-property relationships and derivation of robust design and optimisation proposals
• Data- and simulation-driven Design of Experiments (DoE) to specifically reduce experimental effort
• Accelerated development of optimised materials and process control through coupled simulation and data models
• Implementation of the Kadi4Mat research data management system for sustainable, reproducible data and metadata management, including provenance tracking, automated data transfer and end-to-end process control

We offer flexible licensing and software models that integrate seamlessly with your technical infrastructure and specific requirements.

• Provision of custom-configured software licences for the Pace3D multiphysics simulation framework
• Development of bespoke simulation solutions for specific materials, processes and boundary conditions
• Provision and integration of the Kadi4Mat open-source research data management ecosystem

We support our clients throughout the entire innovation cycle – from the initial question to the implemented solution.

• Consultancy on the design, analysis and optimisation of material manufacturing and processing processes
• Methodological support for Design of Experiments and results evaluation
• Consultancy on data analysis, (3D+t) visualisation and decision support
• Design of a comprehensive, sustainable data and metadata organisation
• Technical support for the use of our software solutions
• Preparation of scientifically sound expert reports
• Training in the areas of material simulation, hybrid modelling approaches, data management and automated data workflows

a) Material and process simulation

• Multiphysical modelling of phase transformation, mass and heat diffusion, fluid flow and mechanics
• Efficient numerical solution of complex models on HPC systems
• Phase field models for describing microstructural development
• Hybridisation of physics-based models with ML/AI methods to scale and accelerate simulations

b) Design of problem-specific simulation methods and data organisation

• Development of bespoke software and simulation solutions
• Data- and simulation-driven Design of Experiments
• Programming interfaces for connecting external applications
• Standardisation and conversion of heterogeneous data formats
• Problem-specific composition of analysis and ML algorithms
• Modern visualisation techniques for multidimensional data

c) Data and metadata management

• Development of integrated dashboard solutions for analysis, monitoring and reporting
• Design and implementation of automated, reproducible data workflows
• Sustainable documentation of data, metadata and process chains

• Optimisation of fluid transport in porous membranes for medical diagnostics
• Computer-aided design of metallic foams and granular structures for hydrothermal processes in lightweight construction, heating technology and geothermal energy
• Microstructure-property analysis and DoE for the wetting of structured surfaces
• Damage and failure prediction for thermomechanically stressed materials (e.g. brake discs, clutches)
• Prediction of phase formation in multi-component materials and derivation of targeted design strategies
• ML- and AI-based analysis of alloy compositions in recycling processes
• Implementation of a uniform, sustainable data management system for experimental and simulation-based data

Our strength lies in combining in-depth expertise in materials science with proprietary, data-driven simulation and management systems.

• Over 30 years’ experience in materials modelling, simulation and data-driven analysis
• Independent, holistic design, development and programming of a modular data management ecosystem (Kadi4Mat) with detailed knowledge of all components, modules and interfaces
• Proven system expertise in the integration of simulation, data management, analysis and visualisation
• An interdisciplinary team with expertise in materials science, data science, ML/AI and software development
• High flexibility and rapid implementation of customer-specific requirements
• Holistic consideration of processes, data and models throughout the entire development cycle
• Creative, bespoke solution development with a clear focus on applicability, reproducibility and economic benefits 

Steinbeis Transfer Magazine

• Real Impact Means Improvements in Everyday Life – as Well as Industry (Transfer 1/2024)
  An interview with Professor Dr. Britta Nestler and Dr.-Ing. Michael Selzer, Steinbeis Entrepreneurs at the Steinbeis Transfer Center for Material Simulation and Process Optimization
• Editorial (Transfer 1/2024)
  
• The Future of Material Development Is Made to Measure and Efficient (Transfer 3/2022)
  Steinbeis experts use Pace3D software to design microstructures and analyze data
• Fluids on Structured Surfaces and in Porous Structures (Transfer 4/2016)
  Steinbeis experts develop simulation software
• Computer-Aided Design of Medical Membranes (Transfer 2/2015)
  Steinbeis experts develop simulation software