4.3. Analysis#

A comprehensive suite of tools for analyzing and visualizing simulation results in Flow360.


Available Options#

Option

Description

Purpose

Dashboard

Interactive overview of simulation progress and key metrics

Real-time monitoring and analysis

Convergence

Analysis of solution convergence behavior

Solution quality assessment

Monitor

Tracking of flow field variables at specific locations

Detailed flow analysis

Visualization

Advanced visualization tools for flow field data

Flow pattern analysis

Aeroacoustic

Acoustic analysis and noise prediction

Sound generation and propagation


Detailed Descriptions#

Dashboard#

The Dashboard provides an interactive overview of your simulation’s progress and key performance metrics.

Features:

  • Real-time progress tracking

  • Key performance indicators

  • Simulation status overview

  • Resource utilization metrics

Convergence#

Convergence analysis tools help assess the quality and stability of your simulation results.

Features:

  • Nonlinear residual monitoring

  • Linear residual tracking

  • CFL number visualization

  • State variable bounds

  • Maximum residual location tracking

Monitor#

Monitors enable detailed tracking of flow field variables at specific locations during simulation.

Available Types:

  • Total Forces

  • Forces by Surface

  • Heat Transfer by Surface

  • BET Forces and Moments

  • Force Distribution (X/Y)

  • Actuator Disk metrics

Visualization#

Advanced visualization tools for analyzing flow field data and patterns.

Features:

  • Surface visualization

  • Volume visualization

  • Slice analysis

  • Isosurface generation

  • Streamline visualization

Aeroacoustic#

Specialized tools for acoustic analysis and noise prediction.

Features:

  • Acoustic pressure monitoring

  • Frequency spectrum analysis

  • Overall Sound Pressure Level (OASPL) calculation

  • A-weighting support

  • Multiple observer positions


💡 Tips

  • Dashboard Usage:

    • Monitor simulation progress in real-time

    • Track key performance metrics

    • Identify potential issues early

  • Convergence Analysis:

    • Check residual history for stability

    • Monitor CFL numbers for numerical stability

    • Use maximum residual location to identify problematic regions

  • Monitor Setup:

    • Place monitors strategically for meaningful data collection

    • Consider both steady and unsteady simulation needs

    • Use appropriate sampling frequencies

  • Visualization Best Practices:

    • Start with surface visualization for quick insights

    • Use slices for detailed flow analysis

    • Generate isosurfaces for specific flow features

  • Aeroacoustic Analysis:

    • Ensure sufficient temporal resolution for acoustic analysis

    • Place observers outside the flow domain

    • Consider both solid and permeable approaches


❓ Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the difference between pseudo steps and physical steps?

    Pseudo steps are used in steady-state simulations, while physical steps are used in unsteady simulations (though they consist of pseudo steps). Physical steps represent actual time advancement in the simulation.

  • How do I interpret convergence plots?

    Look for decreasing residuals over time. A stable, decreasing trend indicates good convergence. Sudden spikes or oscillations may indicate numerical issues.

  • When should I use aeroacoustic analysis?

    Aeroacoustic analysis is valuable for applications where noise prediction is important, such as aircraft design, wind turbine performance, and automotive aerodynamics.

  • What is the purpose of A-weighting in acoustic analysis?

    A-weighting adjusts sound levels to match human hearing sensitivity, providing more meaningful noise assessment for human perception.