Frequently asked questions

Each project is unique, so the process may vary from case to case. However, we can generally identify 6 main stages in a study:

1. Consultation: this is when you send us your request, along with the information we need to prepare a quotation (see next question).
2. Quotation: using the elements in our possession, we propose a methodology for the project, the deliverables, the type of results provided and the necessary input data, as well as a fixed price for the project and a delivery deadline.
3. Order: if we reach agreement on the content, cost and deadline of the study, you send us an order validating the launch of the project. As soon as we receive the order and the input data specified in the quotation, we’re ready to start the project.
4. Kick-off meeting: this meeting is essential to the smooth operation of the project. During this meeting, we present the model created before launching the simulations, in order to check that the geometry transmitted is correct, that the operating or simulation parameters correspond to your request, and that the expected results meet your requirements. This meeting marks the start of the project (even though the first, essential part of data preparation has already been carried out), as well as the launch of the calculations.
5. Intermediate meetings: depending on the scope of the project, one or more intermediate meetings may be scheduled, to present initial results and refocus the study on specific points.
6. Results delivery meeting: once all the work packages specified in the quotation have been completed, a final meeting is held with you to present and review all the results.

The type of deliverables depends on your needs and the project. A single project can have several deliverables. These include

1. Project report, generally a written report detailing the context, methodology and results obtained.
2. Results presentation, generally a PowerPoint document, containing the essential information (context, methodology, results) in a more concise format.
3. Simplified model: in some cases, the study aims to produce a simplified predictive model based on the results of numerical simulations. This model may take the form of an Excel-type spreadsheet for the simplest cases, or scripts (Python, Fortran, C++…) in other cases.
4. Calculation code: for certain applications, OptiFluides develops calculation code. These codes can then be delivered to the customer, accompanied by documentation and, if required, a simplified graphic interface.
5. Simulation files: for customers who also use our numerical simulation software, we can include native data and results files in the deliverables, so that you can also carry out or continue simulations in-house.

If you require other types of deliverables not listed here, please let us know during the consultation process, and we’ll do our best to meet your needs.

Prior to any data exchange, OptiFluides can, if you wish, sign a non-disclosure agreement with your entity.

Then, to enable us to prepare a quotation in the best possible conditions, and to ensure that the project runs smoothly afterwards, it is preferable to provide us with technical specifications (formalized in a document OR simply in writing in an e-mail) containing the following information:

1. The system, structure or product to be studied.
2. The objective of the study and the type of results expected.
3. Drawings, simplified CAD files or views of the system to be studied.
   • For the costing, orders of magnitude on the dimensions of the system, or even photos, may suffice.
   • To carry out the study, we need drawings. However, if you don’t have any, we can use on-site measurements or 3D scans provided by our partners.
4. The number of scenarios to be studied and their operating conditions: flow rates, temperatures, wind or flow speeds, water levels…
   • Orders of magnitude may be sufficient at the costing stage.
   • If these conditions are not known, we can also carry out experimental measurements to determine them.
5. The desired delivery date, and any other contractual clauses you wish us to be aware of.

The quality and precision of the input elements provided are key to obtaining reliable, usable results. Where data is missing, we can perform a bibliographic review to find it, but we cannot guarantee that this data will correspond to your project, product or system. One of the mottos in CFD is: “complete and accurate input data = complete and accurate results”.

OptiFluides generally offers fixed-price services. In this type of contract, the cost of the service is fixed at the outset, and invoicing takes place at predefined milestones.

In some very specific cases, we can operate on a time and materials basis, with invoicing carried out as the study progresses, based on actual hourly clocking.

For quotations, it is sometimes necessary to travel to the customer’s site to gain a better understanding of the system or product to be studied. However, in order to limit our carbon footprint and for economic reasons, these trips are rather exceptional.

To carry out the study, our engineers work from OptiFluides’ premises. Meetings may be scheduled at the customer’s premises, in particular for the commissioning or delivery of results. If you wish, it is preferable to specify this at the quotation stage, particularly if your premises are far from the Lyon region.