Numeric Modelling

Numeric modeling has always played a central role at Intera. Numeric modelling involves:

• Formulation of a conceptual model, which is a description of the physical system of interest, expressed in such a way as to facilitate mathematical treatment, and to adequately describe the uncertainties
• Development of a numerical representation of the conceptual model, involving discretization of the domain into blocks or elements with properties (e.g., hydraulic conductivity, porosity, specific storage, ), assignment of boundary conditions, and selection of method of solution
• Adjustment of parameters within reasonable bounds such that the simulated values of the model (e.g., hydraulic head) adequately match observed values (e.g., measured water levels)
• Assessment of model output sensitivity to changes in input parameters, exploration of the interrelationship between parameters, and determination of the physical meaning of the results, especially in relation to the uncertainties identified in the conceptual model
• Use of the model for predictive simulation, with appropriate error bounds or other qualifying statements made about the results, based on understanding of uncertainties

Intera’s research experience is strongly linked to our project work, because we are so often asked to solve open-ended problems, or problems for which there is no established method of solution. Examples of our research projects include the simulation of thermal-hydro-mechanical coupled processes to determine the effect of glacial advance and retreat on the performance of a deep geological repository for radioactive waste; and the numerical simulation of laboratory solute transport experiments designed as analogue to an in-pit uranium tailings facility, post closure.

By virtue of our project work, Intera’s modellers are continually required to push the limits of software and hardware. In the area of software, our solution is twofold. First, we exercise control over the models we run by understanding the limitations and strengths of the source code, and by maintaining the ability to adjust, debug, and improve such codes, in house. Second, we maximize the benefit gained from a given code by developing necessary pre- and post-processing algorithms in house, typically as objects within mView. In the area of hardware, we maintain a stable of the powerful computers whose capabilities are exploited to the best ability through batch processing, and parallelization.

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Intera News & Updates
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22/03/2010
Intera wins 3-year contract for gas transport modelling of the Lasgit Experiment (Large Scale Gas Injection Test).

12/02/2010
3 years and 5000 metres later: drilling at DGR is now complete.

25/02/2010
Dr. Robert Walsh provides mView and TOUGH2 training to Nippon-Koei Research Division in Tsukuba-shi, Japan.

28/01/2010
New Website released.