[Introduction to the COMSOL News 2023]

Seeing the Bigger Picture with Simulation

Whether it is a mountain landscape or an up-close view of a jaguar’s face, the pieces of a puzzle seamlessly connect to reveal a bigger picture.
Like puzzle pieces, every component in a design or process must function properly on their own
and work well together.
Every day, engineers, scientists, and researchers around the world use multiphysics modeling and simulation to understand and optimize the individual pieces that make up the complete system.
We have compiled several of their inspiring stories in this year’s edition of COMSOL News.
On page 10, you will meet a team from the Toyota Research Institute of North America that came up with a simulationdriven
methodology for optimizing flow field microchannel plates, ultimately furthering the development of hydrogenpowered
vehicles.
You will also find a story about how Zeugin Bauberatungen is analyzing how sound-absorbing curtains and foam panels help reduce noise distractions in open-plan office designs.
In addition, there are articles on the creation and deployment of simulation apps for analyzing specific aspects of large-scale processes.
One example shows how simulation apps are used for predicting the shelf life of fresh produce, thereby improving the use of refrigerated food storage in developing countries.
Another story features an app that helps construction teams make informed decisions throughout each project to avoid overspending while delivering the best results possible.
This year, we are also sharing a few articles with tips and inspiration on topics like visualization, 3D motor modeling, and MEMS devices. No matter the field or the application, great designs come together when each piece is optimized
with the bigger picture in mind.

Rachel Keatley
COMSOL, Inc.

[Table of Contents to the COMSOL News 2023]

[MODELING IN PRACTICE]
P.4：Tips for Model Visualization
COMSOL, Massachusetts, USA

[DEMOCRATIZING SIMULATION]
P.6：Forecasting Fruit Freshness with Simulation Apps
Empa, Switzerland
P.16：Bringing Multiphysics Simulation to Construction Sites
Heidelberg Materials, Norway and Sweden

[RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT]
P.10：Generative Design Puts Hydrogen Fuel Cell Development in High Gear
Toyota Research Institute of North America, Michigan, USA
P.26：How Decaying Shells Help Preserve the Alkalinity of the Seas
Utrecht University, Netherlands

[MULTIPHYSICS INNOVATION]
P.14：RF MEMS Resonators, the Building Blocks of Communication Systems
COMSOL, Massachusetts, USA

[SIMULATION-BASED PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT]
P.20：Elevating the Performance of Ionization Gauges with Simulation
INFICON, Liechtenstein
P.33：Shifting to 3D: Motor Modeling Gears Up for Vehicle Electrification
COMSOL, Sweden

[DESIGN OPTIMIZATION]
P.23：Thermal Modeling of Small Satellites
COMSOL, Massachusetts, USA
P.30：Harmonizing Sound and Style in Open Plan Offices
Zeugin Bauberatungen, Switzerland