COMSOL Multiphysics®

Real world simulation for everyone

This is a modular software. Each module is developed for the user simulating a specific physics problem. Currently, you can find COMSOL Multiphysics modules in the following fields.

• Heat transfer - Conduction, convection, radiation
• Electromagnetism - AC/DC, RF, semiconductors, plasma, MEMS
• Optics - wave, beam
• Fluid flow - CFD, polymer flow, microfluidics, pipe, porous and vacuum systems
• Acoustic
• Structural mechanics - linear and nonlinear materials, composites, multibody dynamics, geomechanics, service life
• Chemical and electrochemical reactions - chemical engineering, batteries and fuel cells, electrolytic and corrosion processes

The large number of implemented equations is the reason why COMSOL is extended to so many seemingly non-traditional fields, such as biomedical engineering (a part of the Heat Transfer module is the equation for heating biological tissue). One of the functionalities is also the possibility to calculate partial or ordinary differential equations (PDR/ODR) entered by the user. The software is equipped with exceptional features in the field of multiphysics simulations. If you need to investigate several physical phenomena at once, you will find tuned solutions. If you are wondering if there are simulation tools for your needs as well, please leave us a message here.

Specialist in numerical mathematics

COMSOL Multiphysics must be ready for everything that the user may encounter in simulations due to its wide application. Above all, it has its own CAD core, so it can simplify complex imported geometries. It manages to guard units, create different kinds of networks, deal with strongly non-linear problems, render the most complex graphs and animations, and the database of about 4000 materials is appreciated. All this is suitable for anyone who does not want to get stuck on a more difficult task during development. For an idea, in the guts of the program the finite element method (FEM), boundary surface method (BEM), discontinuous Galerkin method (DG FEM), finite volume method (FVM), geometric methods of ray tracing and others are implemented.

COMSOL is renowned for the reliability and robustness of its meshing algorithms. The figure shows a hybrid mesh of the finite element method. Tools are available for tuning the network down to the smallest detail.

Uniform control as significant time savings

The growing popularity is not surprising. The Swedish company COMSOL AB develops a program with a unified control, which consists in compiling a proven and understandable command tree. Whether you are designing a transformer or simulating transmission noise propagation, the handling will be identical. Development and research become significantly more efficient if the entire workplace uses the same procedure for simulations. Technicians can quickly respond to new problems, better understand each other's models, or help each other.

Interior sound study. The geometry is synchronized with the design in Revit®. Other calculations such as eigenshapes, vibrations, structural noise, illumination or insolation would be performed in this window with identical controls.

From virtual prototype to digital twin

A thoughtful model does not count on the equation 1+1=2, but thinks about future development using a+b=c. Parametrization is hidden behind the letters. Every value in COMSOL can be replaced by a parameter, variable, or function. Literally in a few clicks, the study starts, the output of which is a set of results for different values of the parameter. Of course, optimization algorithms are also at hand, which themselves search for an optimal design that meets the specified criteria. The highlight of the current possibilities is the connectivity with MATLAB & Simulink. Simulations can thus use advanced MATLAB algorithms (e.g. genetic optimization) and the model can be part of a control loop in Simulink (e.g. real-time digital twin).

Demonstration of use in the field of electrical engineering. Simulation of the electromagnetic field and motion of the induction motor rotor. The figure shows the evaluation of the force effects on the bearing of an electric rotary machine. The parameterized model allows you to easily simulate the entire product line of engines.