Abstract:

The scientific study and development of complex systems have greatly benefited from the use of computer simulation and modeling. Within the tools used for this activity is Comsol Multiphysics, which is CAE software for analysis, finite element resolution, and general purpose simulation to model designs, devices, and processes in all fields of engineering, manufacturing, and scientific research. It has also gained popularity quickly due to its versatility and ease of use. The successful instruction of this instrument, however, calls for a pedagogical strategy that bridges the gap between theory and practice.

The main objective of this paper is to present a set of general physics problems that can be used to learn how to use simulation software that works with finite elements, specifically Comsol Multiphysics. The exercises presented relate to heat transfer, electromagnetism, fluid mechanics, and structural mechanics. 

The set of general physics problems is of an introductory level and contains an analytic solution, allowing students to get a thorough understanding of the scenario they should model and the outcomes they anticipate acquiring from such simulation. Therefore, we begin by providing a detailed explanation of each exercise. Next, we briefly discuss the modeling instructions in Comsol Multiphycics and ultimately compare the results obtained using the analytical solution.

Keywords:

General physics, numerical simulations, FEM, simulation software.