Defining Parameters

Follow these steps to define global parameters. A global parameter is a scalar physical quantity that can be defined once and used in multiple Construction Geometries, QuickParts, or QuickPart Surfaces.

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 electronics device, the number of fins for a heatsink could be set once as a global parameter, and then used in numerous other heatsinks.

Similarly, you can define a global constant like the mathematical value pi (3.14...). By defining a global parameter, you can use it repeatedly without entering the value again.

Another important use is in design exploration—global parameters can act as controls that you adjust over multiple design simulations.

NoteOnly SI units are available for global parameters.
To set up a global parameter:
  1. Right-click the Parameters node and select Edit.
  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 nodes in your electronics cooling simulation.
  5. Repeat step 2 to 4 to create additional parameters.
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 QuickParts > Heatsink, and select Edit (see Creating and Positioning the Components).
  2. In the Edit dialog, set the value of the respective scalar quantity to $[Parameter], where [Parameter] is the name of the parameter.
    NoteIf you set the scalar value to a parameter that does not exist, the Electronics Cooling Toolset adds the parameter automatically. An Input dialog opens that asks you to enter the value of the parameter. The units of the parameter are set to the default units of the quantity that you parameterize.
  3. Click Apply and Close.