Page 19 - Process Modelling and Simulation With Finite Element Methods

6 Process Modelling and Simulation with Finite Element Methods

Figure 0.4 The Options Menu permits definition of many useful feature: constants, grids for drawing
and visualization, and expressions used in entering the model equations are the most common uses.

1. Don’t re-invent the wheel. Read the Model Library and User’s Guideweb
pages.
2. Formulate a mathematical model. Compare with pre-built application modes.
3. Can it all be done in the FEMLAB GUI, or is the PDE engine only a
subroutine?

FEMLAB as an integrated modelling environment
FEMLAB can be viewed two ways -
1. As an interactive, integrated GUI for setting up, solving, and post-processing
a mathematical model - a PACKAGE.
2. As a set of MATLAB subroutines for setting up, solving, and post-processing
a mathematical model - a PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE.

This book intends to show how to implement models built both ways in an
efficient way. The FEMLAB GUI is so straightforward in setting up problems
and trying “what if” scenarios that it must be the first port of call in “having a
go.” The great utility of a PACKAGE is that the barriers to entry are small, so
the pay off is worth the investment of learning all the features of the tool.