Abstract

High Performance Simulation Computing in a Global Environment

It is especially challenging to implement High Performance Computing (HPC) when the product development teams are globally distributed in close proximity to the automotive OEMs. In the last 3 years, Delphi Automotive PLC moved from a centralized HPC environment to a successful distributed solution. Today’s HPC architecture is based on high performance engineering workstations with SSDs, InfiniBand, and GPU cards. The configuration allows for quick and easy upgrades to the applications and allows tailoring the solution to the needs at each technical center. This agile environment is enabled by having a dedicated support team that provides comprehensive end-to-end services.

Looking forward, there are challenges in moving to the democratization of HPC within the CAE environment regardless of location. Delphi is engaged with our application and HPC partners to drive an even more powerful vision for the future. To support this vision Delphi is participating in the NAFEMS HPC working group on the development of benchmarks that can be used for evaluation of potential solutions.

About the Speaker

Mr. Dennis Strader, Delphi Automotive PLC

IT Engineering Senior Manager -- Simulation, Test & Validation

Dennis is responsible for the global Simulation, HPC, Test, and Validation portfolios for Delphi. This includes driving increased utilization of high performance computing for product and process simulation with the goals of increasing speed to market, lowering cost, and improving quality and reliability.

Prior to joining the IT corporate staff Dennis held numerous engineering leadership positions in Delphi’s Powertrain Division with a focus on integrating product design, tool development, simulation and testing aided by the use of newer computer techniques. Dennis also was the Senior Staff Engineer at Schwitzer for vibration control products development and for turbocharger structural analysis. He started his engineering career as a product design engineer at Ford Motor Company.

Dennis earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and his Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Ray W. Herrick Laboratories at Purdue University. He is a member of the NAFEMS High Performance Computing (HPC) and the Simulation Data Management Working Groups.