How Switching To Cloud HPC Can Accelerate Adoption of Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO)

Engineers are increasingly turning to cloud-based high-performance computing (HPC) to enhance multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) processes by integrating various design disciplines, as opposed to traditional on-premise systems, which are often limited by capacity and cost issues. Modern aircraft designs, such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, exemplify the benefits of MDO by optimizing across aerodynamics, structural analysis, and other fields to achieve superior designs that improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. However, on-prem HPC systems struggle with the growing demand for complex simulations, leading to long queue times and inefficiencies. Cloud solutions offered by providers like AWS, Azure, and Rescale alleviate these challenges by offering scalable resources, enabling engineers to conduct high-fidelity simulations rapidly and cost-effectively under an OPEX model. This shift not only democratizes access to advanced computational resources but also supports new entrants in the engineering sector by removing the capital investment barrier. Additionally, Rescale's platform offers comprehensive cost visibility and AI-driven recommendations to optimize resource use, ultimately enhancing the capacity for innovative design exploration and leading to improved engineering outcomes.