Importing CAE Solution Data

In two-way coupling, a solution is obtained by sequentially running Simcenter STAR-CCM+ and a third-party code to obtain a complete solution. This may involve using Simcenter STAR-CCM+ to compute the traction load on a flexible structure caused by fluid flow, and a third-party code to compute the deflection of the structure and associated displacements and stresses. In order to carry out a two-way coupled simulation, not only do you need to map and export solution data from Simcenter STAR-CCM+, but you will also need to import solution data from the third-party software, and map it onto the Simcenter STAR-CCM+ model.

Importing CAE solution data from es-ice or pro-STAR is different to other CAE products in terms of limitations and available data. For more information, see Working with es-ice or pro-STAR.

The vertex data associated with an imported CAE model can be imported into Simcenter STAR-CCM+ via the imported CAE model node. The following table shows the import options currently supported by Simcenter STAR-CCM+, not including es-ice or pro-STAR:

CAE Package
Field Function NASTRAN Abaqus ANSYS RadTherm
Temperature







Displacement





-
Eigenmodes





-
Qvol

- - -
Temperature (volume import)





-

For Abaqus data import, in the Open dialog file selection pathway, it is also necessary to enter the command used to launch Abaqus, and the Load Step Name for the data. Additional settings are available when you are importing eigenmodes. When you import Nastran data using the Qvol card, in the Import Data Options dialog, set the Data Type to Cell as the values are present at the cell centers.

When vertex data is imported into the simulation it is stored in the simulation ready to be mapped onto a boundary. The data cannot be used in the simulation until it has been mapped onto the Simcenter STAR-CCM+ model, but it can be visualized as described below. If displacement data has been imported into the simulation you can deform the CAE model based on the displacements.

To import CAE solution data:

  1. Expand the Imported Models node.
  2. Right-click the [Imported CAE Model] node and select Import CAE Solution Data...


  3. In the Open dialog, select the output file containing the solution data. In the Files of Type drop-down list you can select the appropriate format for the CAE model.


    This activates the Import Data Options dialog, which is used to specify the properties of the imported data.
  4. In the Import Data Options dialog, use the Data Type menu to select the type of data being imported, for example Vertex. From the Field Name menu, select the field data, then select the corresponding units from the Units menu.


  5. Click OK.
    The import process results in the data being represented as one or more field functions in Simcenter STAR-CCM+.

    This field function can be displayed just like any other scalar value.