Points

Points#

A comprehensive guide to monitoring and analyzing flow properties at specific locations in the simulation domain using Points and Point Arrays.

Available Creation Methods#

Type

Description

Point

Single monitoring location in 3D space

Point array

Multiple monitoring points along a straight line defined by its start and end points

Detailed Descriptions#

Point#

Defines a single monitoring location in three-dimensional space for tracking flow properties.

Point Parameters:

  • Position: Three-dimensional coordinates (x, y, z)

Point array#

Creates an array of equally spaced points between start and end locations.

Point array Parameters:

  • Start Position: Three-dimensional coordinates (x, y, z)

  • End Position: Three-dimensional coordinates (x, y, z)

  • Number of Points: Integer > 2

Output Data#

Points and Point arrays provide access to flow field variables at their specified locations, allowing for detailed monitoring and analysis of local flow properties throughout the simulation.

  • Pressure

  • Temperature

  • Velocity components

  • Density

  • Turbulence quantities

  • Vorticity

  • Other solver-specific variables

💡 Tips

  • Position points in regions where significant flow phenomena are expected

  • Use Point arrays to capture gradients or transitions in the flow field

  • Ensure points are positioned within the computational domain

  • For boundary layer analysis, create points or arrays perpendicular to surfaces

  • Use meaningful naming conventions to easily identify point locations

Best Practices for Point Placement

  • Place points upstream of regions of interest to capture incoming flow conditions

  • Use multiple points around complex geometries to understand flow patterns

  • Consider placing points at locations where experimental data is available for validation

  • For unsteady simulations, ensure points are placed where significant temporal variations are expected

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

  • What flow variables can be monitored at points?

    Points can output pressure, temperature, velocity components, density, turbulence quantities, vorticity, and other solver-specific variables.

  • How do I choose the number of points for a PointArray?

    Consider the expected spatial resolution needed for your analysis. More points provide better resolution but increase computational overhead.

  • Can points be placed outside the computational domain?

    No, points must be positioned within the computational domain to provide valid results.

🐍 Python Example Usage

 
import flow360 as fl

# Create a single point at the leading edge
leading_edge_point = fl.Point(
    name="leading_edge",
    location=(1.0, 0.5, 0.0) * fl.u.m
)

# Create a point array for wake analysis
wake_profile = fl.PointArray(
    name="wake_profile",
    start=(0, 0, 0) * fl.u.m,
    end=(5, 0, 0) * fl.u.m,
    number_of_points=10
)
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