8.20. Specifying Conditions Using Sub-Models

Sub-models allow you to modify some equations and boundary conditions by constraining, modifying, and adding simulation variables, either internal to the domain or on its boundary. For example, you can impose a kinematic constraint on a part of a free surface to model a particular take-up device, or model a source/sink of heat or an internal force contribution. You can also model heat-conducting devices such as plates or wires embedded in the simulation domain, but distinct from the continuum being modeled.

Sub-models require the specification of at least two pieces of information:

  • the type of model and the associated parameters

  • the region of the mesh where the sub-model applies (called a "topo-object")

In the case of a porous jump sub-model, it is also necessary to provide a preliminary definition of a dataset, which will then be accessed by Ansys Polydata when you create the sub-model. See Defining a Material Dataset for further details.


Important:  Because of the general applicability of sub-models, Ansys Polydata is not able to perform consistency checks. It is up to you to ensure the correspondence between the underlying continuum model and the sub-model.