Optimization Module Updates
For users of the Optimization Module, COMSOL Multiphysics® version 6.0 brings a Transformation feature for setting up simple shape variations, revamped parameter estimation functionality for least-squares objective analyses, improved support for transient optimization, and more easily accessible optimization features. Read more about the features below.
Shape Optimization
For Shape Optimization, there is a new Transformation feature for you to quickly set up simple shape variations. This supports translation, scaling, and rotation, as well as custom coordinate systems. The simplicity of the shape variations guarantees that it is possible to construct a CAD representation of the optimization result. You can see this new feature in the existing Optimization of a Photonic Crystal for Signal Filtering and Optimization of a Photonic Crystal for Demultiplexing models, as well as in a new model called Optimization of a Waveguide Iris Bandpass Filter — Transformation Version.
Parameter Estimation
The setup of parameter estimation models has been simplified using a set of new tools and interfaces. A new Global Least-Squares Objective feature is available through the Component node. This feature has an improved user interface relative to the old feature (which is still available through the Optimization interface). In addition, a new Parameter Estimation study step has also been introduced, while the old Parameter Estimation study step has been renamed Curve Fitting. With this new study step, you can set up a least-squares objective directly in the study step, without needing to add a General Optimization interface, and it can also be used with least-squares objective features. Several tutorial models make use of the new parameter estimation functionality, including (but not limited to) the Impedance Tube Parameter Estimation with Data Generation, Mooney–Rivlin Curve Fit, Estimation of Corrosion Kinetics Parameters, and Modeling Impedance in the Lithium-Ion Battery models.
Transient Optimization
Running transient sensitivity analyses is more robust with improvements to the solver settings. Additional robustness can be achieved by using fixed time steps and/or a new manual solver setting that allows solving the transient adjoint problem using the same time steps as the forward problem. Separately, a new Control Function feature allows for control variables that vary in time. The argument can be time, as in the Optimal Control for Heating of a Cylinder model, or chosen arbitrarily as shown in the Shape Optimization of a Rectangular Loudspeaker Horn in 3D model, where the feature is used for shape optimization. The Optimization of a Tesla Microvalve with Transient Flow model also makes use of the improvements for transient optimization.
Relocated Optimization Features
In addition to the new and updated functionality, how to access the user interfaces of the Optimization Module has changed. The optimization features that were located under the Definitions node have been elevated to exist on the same level as the physics interfaces. This change makes the optimization features easier to access and also more visible in the model tree.
New and Updated Tutorial Models
COMSOL Multiphysics® version 6.0 brings several new and updated tutorial models to the Optimization Module.
Loudspeaker Spider Optimization
Application Library Title:
loudspeaker_spider_optimization
Download from the Application Gallery
Shape Optimization of Coils
Application Library Title:
coil_shape_optimization
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Optimization of a Waveguide Iris Bandpass Filter — Transformation Version
Application Library Title:
waveguide_iris_filter_optimization_transformation
Download from the Application Gallery
Topology Optimization of a Drone
drone_topology_optimization
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Petzval Lens Optimization
Application Library Title:
petzval_lens_optimization
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Topology Optimization of a District Heating Network
Application Library Title:
district_heating_optimization
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Shape Optimization of a Plate Heat Exchanger
Application Library Title:
plate_heater_exchanger_optimization
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Optimization of a Tesla Microvalve with Transient Flow
Application Library Title:
tesla_microvalve_transient_optimization
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Topology Optimization of a Heat Exchanger with Laminar Flow
Application Library Title:
heat_exchanger_2d_topology_optimization
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Optimal Control for Heating of a Cylinder
Application Library Title:
optimal_heating_control
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Shape Optimization of a Rectangular Loudspeaker Horn in 3D
Application Library Title:
rectangular_horn_shape_optimization
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Shape Optimization of a Water Heater
Application Library Title:
water_heater_optimization
Download from the Application Gallery