Meshing Method

HFSS 3D Layout has three meshers available to generate the initial mesh: the Phi, Phi Plus, and Classic meshers.

Phi mesh is an advanced layout-based meshing technology that can produce meshes rapidly and generate fast and accurate results. It is used for planar structures.

Phi mesher also includes the Maximum delta-Z Ratio field. Typically, if Phi mesher is selected, a validation check will analyze all combinations of Z-elevation to determine the delta-Z ratio (i.e., the minimum distance between the model's unique Z-elevations). If the ratio is greater than the maximum delta-Z ratio, the validation check fails (although the model will still proceed through meshing). Entering a different value in the Maximum delta-Z Ratio field can allow validation to proceed. Refer to Meshing With the Maximum Delta-Z Ratio.

Phi Plus is a multi-domain parallel mesher that works with all types of layout models, particularly those containing bondwires, solder balls, or 3D Components (MCAD).

Classic mesh uses a Bowyer algorithm to create compact meshes for the model with very large length scales. It represents the model very accurately.

Select Phi mesh, Phi Plus, or Classic mesh as desired. If Use alternative mesh methods as fallback is checked, HFSS 3D Layout uses the selected mesher, if possible, but attempts to use the other meshers if they are more appropriate, based on analysis of the geometry. Depending on the model, Classic mesh may converge using fewer resources whereas Phi or Phi Plus may converge faster. Ansys recommends selecting Auto since HFSS 3D Layout automatically determines the correct choice of the mesher for a given geometry.

Note: If Use alternative mesh methods as fallback is checked, Phi mesh may not run a validation check on designs that contain certain features (e.g., MCAD components, 3D structures, designs with etching enabled).

Initial Mesh Settings dialog. General tab. Meshing Method Window