5 Unusual Simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics (Part 2)

In Part 1 of this series, we explored how COMSOL Multiphysics® is used to simulate everything from KitKat chocolate bars to bumblebee electroreception. Now, we’re diving into five more fascinating and unconventional applications of this powerful simulation software. These examples highlight the versatility of COMSOL Multiphysics and its ability to solve complex problems across diverse fields.

1. The Official Euro 2024 Match Ball

Simulating Aerodynamics for the Perfect Kick

 

The Adidas® Fussballliebe®, the official match ball for Euro 2024, features a unique surface design with deep ridges, semicircles, and dimples. This innovative design aims to enhance aerodynamic performance. But how does it compare to previous tournament balls, such asthe Adidas® Telstar®?

Using COMSOL Multiphysics, Ed Fontes and his team simulated the aerodynamic properties of both balls. By employing Large Eddy Simulation (LES) and Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) approaches, they analyzed drag coefficients and airflow patterns. 

The results revealed that whiele the Fussballliebe has a slightly higher drag coefficient than the Telstar,  its intricate surface design stabilizes airflow, reducing unpredictable trajectories during high-speed kicks.

This simulation not only provides insights into the evolution of football design but also underscores the role of simulation in optimizing sports equipment for peak performance.

Read more about the simulation of the Adidas Fussballliebe here.

2.The Darkstar 

From Hollywood to Hypersonic Flight

Inspired by the hypersonic Darkstar aircraft from Top Gun: Maverick, Ed Fontes used COMSOL Multiphysics to simulate its shock waves and radar cross-section. The Darkstar, capable of reaching Mach 10, presented a unique challenge due to its complex geometry and high-speed aerodynamics.

The team modeled the aircraft’s shock waves at Mach 1.5 and Mach 7.5, Illustrating how the angle of shock waves changes with speed. They also explored the Darkstar’s stealth capabilities by simulating its radar cross-section at 1 GHz and 3 GHz. 

The results showed that the aircraft’s design minimizes radar detection, making it a formidable stealth vehicle.

This simulation not only satisfies scientific curiosity but also demonstrates how COMSOL Multiphysics can bring Hollywood-inspired engineering to life.

Read more about the Darkstar simulation here.

3. Yagi-Uda Antenna Heated Muffins

An Unconventional Kitchen Experiment

Could a Yagi-Uda antenna be used to heat muffins? Joseph Carew and his team investigated this by simulating the antenna’s electromagnetic field at 2.45 GHz, the same frequency used in microwave ovens. 

Using COMSOL Multiphysics, they modeled the antenna’s electric field and its interaction with two muffins placed on a conveyor belt. The simulation showed that the muffins reached temperatures above 45°C, with some areas exceeding 120°C. While this unconventional heating method proved effective, it’s unlikely to replace your kitchen microwave anytime soon.

This fun experiment highlights the versatility of COMSOL Multiphysics in exploring unconventional applications of everyday technology.

Read more about the Yagi-Uda antenna simulation here.

4. Temperature Distribution in a Sauna

Simulating the Perfect Sauna Experience

Saunas are a beloved tradition in many cultures, but achieving the perfect temperature distribution can be challenging. Simulation experts used COMSOL Multiphysics to model the heat transfer and airflow in a traditional Finnish sauna.

The simulation incorporated convection, radiation, and turbulent airflow to analyze how heat spreads from the stove to the benches. The simulation revealed that the top bench reaches temperatures of around 70°C, while the lower bench stays at a more moderate 30–40°C. This insight helps sauna users find their ideal spot for relaxation.

Read more about the sauna simulation here.

5. Hopping Hoop

Simulating a Classic Mechanics Problem

A classic physics problem explores the motion of a hoop with a point mass attached to its rim. If rolled on a horizontal surface, can the hoop hop into the air? 

Using COMSOL Multiphysics, researchers investigated this phenomenon By simulating the hoop’s motion at various initial velocities, they observed how energy transfers between kinetic and potential forms. At higher speeds, the hoop indeed hops into the air, demonstrating the interplay between rotational and translational motion.

Read more about the hopping hoop simulation here.

Conclusion

These five simulations showcase the incredible versatility of COMSOL Multiphysics. From sports equipment to hypersonic aircraft, and even unconventional kitchen experiments, the software continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in science and engineering.

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Blog: 5 Unusual Simulations in COMSOL Multiphysics. 

This blog lists five unusual and unique simulations carried out in COMSOL Multiphysics, illustrating the comprehensive capabilities of the software and the fascinating side of modeling and simulation for science, research, and engineering. Read the blog