Multiphysics Modelling using COMSOL

In applied mechanics one is often confronted with a multi-physics or coupled problem: A problem that requires the (simultaneous) solution of more than one type of physical process or phenomenon in order to accurately describe the problem. Examples of multiphysics problems are fluid/acoustic-structure interaction, thermal-structure interaction and electro-thermal-structure interaction, possibly combined with a control problem. Particularly in the field of mechatronic design and MEMS multiphysics problems are frequently encountered.

COMSOL MultiPhysics is a finite element code, which can be used both as a MATLAB toolbox and as a standalone program, which is particularly suited for the simulation of multi-physics systems.

In this course the student will learn to recognize different types of multi-physics coupling and methods for their efficient numerical solution using COMSOL. Short homework assignments are used to practise the use of COMSOL on different types of problems and in a final assignment the student is asked to study a multi-physics problem using COMSOL.