This guide outlines the new workflow-based UI for simulation projects, focusing on simplifying interactions and streamlining the simulation process. The interface has been restructured into logical stages, with visual cues to guide you toward completing necessary tasks before running simulations. This document will walk you through the updated structure and functionality.
Overview of the Interface
1. Separation into Workflow Tabs
The interface is now segmented into dedicated tabs for each stage of simulation setup.
Geometry*: For making geometry modifications
Physics: For defining physical conditions and parameters.
Mesh*: For meshing your geometry
Outputs: For setting up output requirements and monitoring.
Solver: For finalizing simulation settings and running simulations.
*hidden if you import an external mesh
2. Simulation Checklist
A floating checklist is associated with each tab. The checklist provides visual clarity on pending tasks and highlights warnings and actionable errors.
The checklist only shows items that are relevant to the current tab.
Top-level items act as checklist markers. Tabs remain unchecked if any issue exists in their sub-items, as indicated by a red dot.
Note: A green check mark will appear next to the stage at the top of the toolbar once it's checklist is completed.
3. Simplified Geometry Tab
We've updated the Geometry tab to support a logical sequence for importing and preparing geometry. The Geometry tab includes:
A checklist-style tree to guide you through the setup process
Improved contextual menus for selecting and viewing surfaces/volumes
4. Streamlined Toolbar
Toolbar functionality has been redesigned and streamlined for a cleaner, less cluttered experience. The new toolbar consolidates items from the previous toolbar and bottom camera toolbar, including:
Box selection
Surface selection
Grid display
Screenshot tools
Getting Started with the Workflow-based UI
1. Follow the Checklist
Work through each tab in sequence
Address warnings and ensure all tasks are checked before advancing
2. Progress to the Next Stage
You can progress to the next stage by clicking the button the the left of the Run Simulation button at the top right of the screen. In this example, the next stage is Outputs. Alternatively, you can select the stage directly from the tab at the top of the screen.
3. Run a Simulation
Once all required tabs are complete, you can run a simulation from any tab by selecting Run Simulation from the top right
Optionally, you can select the settings icon to the right of the Run Simulation button to view a simulation overview or to toggle Delayed Start and Save
Once the simulation has completed, the status in the Results table is marked as Completed and a green check is displayed next to the Results tab at the top of the page
4. (Optional) Run a Design of Experiments
From the Results page for an individual simulation, select Setup Design of Experiments. Read more about how to set up and run a Design of Experiments here.
Note: Design of Experiments (DOEs) are unlocked after completing an initial simulation.