Defining Parameters

A global parameter is a scalar physical quantity that can be defined once and used to set multiple properties in your simulation.

One application of a global parameter is in defining a key physical characteristic as a reference value. Other values can point directly to this reference value or be defined in terms of it. For example, in your internal combustion engine, the lash for some of the valve lift curves could be set once as a global parameter, and then be used by the respective valve lift curves.

Another important use of global parameters is the integration of Simcenter STAR-CCM+ In-cylinder with Design Manager—global parameters can act as controls that you adjust over multiple design simulations within a design study.

NoteOnly SI units are available for global parameters.
To set up a global parameter:
  1. Right-click the Parameters node and select Edit.
    The Edit dialog gives you a summary of some pre-defined global Parameters and their default values. You are advised to not use these pre-defined Parameters as they will be removed in future versions.
  2. In the Edit dialog, click Add a new parameter.
  3. In the group-box, set the following properties:
    • Parameter
    • Dimensions
    • Value
    For more information, see Parameters Reference.
  4. Click Add.
    The parameter is now available for other properties in your ICE simulation.
To edit a parameter:
  1. Select the text-box of the parameter property whose value you want to change and set the value to suit your requirements.
To delete a parameter:
  1. Click next to the parameter entry.
  2. Click Close.
To apply a global parameter, follow a procedure similar to the example outlined below:
  1. Right-click a node that stores a scalar physical quantity, such as Engine > Exhaust Valve 1, and select Edit.
  2. In the Edit dialog, set the value of the respective scalar quantity, such as Lash, to $[Parameter], where [Parameter] is the name of the global parameter that you created.
  3. Click Apply, then Close.