Joshua Thomas

In working with our customers, AltaSim often seeks to solve an initial problem in two dimensions to save computational time. The CAD we receive from our customers is routinely in three dimensions, and our engineers need to reduce the dimensionality of the solution space. In the past, our engineers spent significant time re-creating CAD in

As COMSOL Multiphysics evolves, methods to include important features in simulations change. Coupling temperatures to different physics is a common need for multiphysics simulations. COMSOL has made changes that effect temperature coupling. Our clients have asked about the warning signs they get when using temperature coupling, and we would like to share with you our

Making accurate physics predictions using simulations requires a knowledge of the material properties and how to implement them correctly in the software. This is particularly important in analyses involving thermal expansion when the coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) of the materials vary significantly with temperature. For example, optical devices that operate in the vacuum of

Incorrect boundary conditions in finite element analysis (FEA) lead to incorrect solutions, or the simulation does not converge. To develop a converged solution, all FEA models require constraining each dependent variable somewhere in the model. Typically, this is done directly onto the model region geometry, but it can also be accomplished through Robin conditions. This

At AltaSim, we take time to evaluate each new release of COMSOL Multiphysics. The changes that COMSOL implements can have a significant impact on how to use the software. Having a deep understanding of these changes helps us serve our clients better. We also pass on our insights via Tips & Tricks so you can benefit

At AltaSim, we await COMSOL’s improvements to their software with great anticipation.  We take time to evaluate these changes to determine what we can use to better serve our clients.  Based on our review, we also pass on our insights via Tips & Tricks. Version 5.6 of COMSOL Multiphysics has introduced serval solver improvements that

In last month’s Tips and Tricks article AltaSim introduced the topic of model parametrization, describing the process and a few of the benefits.  Effective parametrization of a model file takes time and thought to implement correctly.  This article will extend the approach discussed in Part 1 to include one important recommendation for robust geometric parametrization. 

When learning to use a simulation software such as COMSOL Multiphysics, users typically focus on learning the fundamental tools and steps for building a model and getting results, e.g. geometry building, applying boundary conditions, defining material properties, meshing and post-processing.  These skills are crucial for developing a working and useful model, so it is a great place to start. Once a user has acquired these basic skills for getting a working model, AltaSim