49.9. System Coupling case with Fluent using Patched Data

When generated data is cleared from a System Coupling case before a rerun, the data that was specified using Fluent's patch option is also cleared. For example, in the Multiphase volume of fluid (VOF) cases, the patched data that is cleared is the volume fraction information. Fluent needs this patched data to be able to solve accurately. See Patching Values in Selected Cells for more information about patched data.

For a System Coupling case using patched data, follow the steps below. Note that this workaround will not work with Design Point updates.

  1. Before setting up your case in Fluent, tell Fluent to generate the *.ip file so that if needed, you will have access to patched data. To do this:

    1. In Workbench, select Tools>Options.

    2. On the left side of the dialog box that opens, select Fluent, and then check Enable Generation of Interpolation File.

  2. During Fluent setup, an *.ip file will now be written after initialization of your Fluent system.

  3. If you want to do a rerun in Workbench, after completing a System Coupling run, you need to Clear Generated Data on the System Coupling system's Solution cell. For the cases that use patched data, you need to then have Fluent read the *.ip file that was generated in your initial setup so that it has the correct data. To do this:

    1. From the Project Schematic, open Fluent by double-clicking Fluent’s Setup cell.

    2. Select the File/Interpolate... ribbon tab item. In the dialog box that appears, select Read and Interpolate, then click Read... .

    3. Browse to the *.ip file, and then click OK to add have Fluent read this file. In the Interpolate Data dialog box, select Close.

    4. You do not need to initialize Fluent after reading the *.ip file. Close Fluent and continue with the rerun of your System Coupling case.