Kent Salomonsson is a new Associate Professor in Applied Mechanics

On May 23 Kent Salomonsson held his docent lecture ”Aspects on semi-multiscale numerical modeling” at the School of Engineering. The lecture gave the audience an overview of numerical modelling techniques and their applications in a variety of different areas.

Kent Salomonsson’s research has been focused mainly on the development of numerical models for simulation of different materials – from structural adhesive and cast iron to fibre-reinforced plastic and human tissue. When asked why it is important to do research within this area, he answers:

“Because of the decreasing lead times for developing a new product it has become important for many companies to use virtual product development. As we develop faster and more reliable computer simulations, companies may reduce the number of physical tests and thereby save both time and money.”

During his Ph.D. studies Kent Salomonsson mainly focused on the development of numerical methods for simulation of structural adhesive jointe for car bodies and the like. He then participated in the development of a simulation model for thin adhesivie layers, which has been used mainly within the car and air industries.

“The model can be used for crash simulations among other things. Since it has a high reliability, it may replace some of the physical crash tests, and so it reduces costs significantly, says Kent Salomonsson.

Lately, the development of certain numerical models has turned out to be useful also for biomechanical analysis of pressure ulcers in human tissues. Since a couple of years, Kent Salomonsson, is therefore involved in a collaboration project with the School of Health and Welfare and three companies.

“My research in that project concerns numerical modelling of human tissue, that is, how the tissue behaves when influenced by an external strain, and how it can be simulated. I will develop material models that will be used in simulation models, which in turn will be used to develop improved prostheses, wheel chairs and other external supports, he concludes.

Kent Salomonsson is now an Associate Professor in Applied Mechanics with a specialisation in computational mechanics.