Following up on a previous blog post about glacier flow modeling, we are going to delve a bit further into a crucial component of geophysics modeling in general: parameterizing numerical models using observations. Let’s see how we can quantify sensitivity and infer unknown parameters through indirect observations using the COMSOL Multiphysics® software and add-on Optimization Module.

When creating a simulation, you usually start by building the forward model, supplying various inputs, and then looking at the results. However, what if you have a set of results and want to find the input values that provide the same outcome? Here, we show how to use the Parameter Estimation study step, which helps you build an inverse model and solve for the optimal values of your model inputs.

Additive manufacturing has a wide array of applications, such as creating custom medical devices, aerospace components, and artwork. With the list of potential uses continuing to grow, it’s important that this type of manufacturing can keep up with the demand. However, analyzing and optimizing this complex process can be difficult. What can engineers do to overcome this challenge?

Optimization is an efficient way to gain deeper knowledge of a model. Much like the different flowers in a colorful bouquet, you can perform a variety of different optimization projects using the Optimization Module. However, parameter estimation is also a widely used technique. Such an analysis is usually set as a least-squares problem based on measured data, but for a clear and unique answer, you might need multiple measurements. Today, learn how to estimate parameters using a multiparameter data set.

When designing electromagnetic coils, we may want to adjust the position of the coils to achieve a desired magnetic field strength within a particular region of space. This is possible to do within the COMSOL Multiphysics® software by using the add-on AC/DC Module and Optimization Module to combine parameter and shape optimization. Let’s find out how.

Sweeps are very useful for characterizing a system and learning more about how different input values impact the results. You can perform several different types of sweeps in the COMSOL Multiphysics® software, including function, material, and parametric sweeps. However, precise and innovative simulation results also call for mathematical optimization. In this blog post, learn how to combine sweep studies with the built-in optimization functionality.

In the 1970s and 80s, music fans would dedicate entire rooms of their homes to stereo systems. Big, boxy loudspeakers were essential fixtures of these stereo setups. Today, a new trend has emerged: Consumers want loudspeakers that are both powerful and portable, with the ability to connect to devices around the house and on the go. To design sophisticated yet lightweight loudspeakers, you can optimize the topology of their components, such as a magnetic circuit for the loudspeaker driver.

Today, guest blogger René Christensen of GN Hearing discusses including thermoviscous losses in the topology optimization of microacoustic devices. Topology optimization helps engineers design applications in an optimized manner with respect to certain a priori objectives. Mainly used in structural mechanics, topology optimization is also used for thermal, electromagnetics, and acoustics applications. One physics that was missing from this list until last year is microacoustics. This blog post describes a new method for including thermoviscous losses for microacoustics topology optimization.

Pipelines are used to transport petroleum products and natural gas across long distances in cold environments. Because of this, petroleum mixtures may need to be preheated after being transported in pipelines before a refining process can begin. However, as the oil is pumped through the pipeline, heat is generated from the fluid itself as it flows. To keep costs down and the heat inside the pipe, the pipeline insulation can be optimized using models and simulation.

If you design electromagnetic coils, the combination of the AC/DC and Optimization modules with the COMSOL Multiphysics® software gives you the power to quickly come up with improved design iterations. Today, we will look at designing a coil system to achieve a desired magnetic field distribution by changing the coil’s driving currents. We will also introduce three different optimization objectives and constraints. This topic is of interest to anyone who is modeling coils or curious about optimization.