2.2. Define Project

Purpose

The Define Project section initializes the simulation database, sets the output parameters, and defines the numerical rigor of the study. This is the first mandatory step within the Data Tree.

Project Icon Access: You can access this window by clicking the Project icon in the main toolbar or go to Data -> Project.
Define Project Window Figure 1: Define Project dialog window.

Project Name

Assign a unique name to identify your case study. To ensure compatibility with the solver and file management system, follow these naming conventions:

  • Use alphanumeric characters and underscores (_) only.
  • Prohibited: Do not use special characters such as @, #, $, %, ñ or accented letters (tildes).

Simulation Modes

Select the computational resolution level based on the analysis objective:

Draft Mode

Operates with a reduced computational resolution and a larger time step to drastically accelerate the analysis. It provides a solid directional approximation, optimized for parameter exploration and rapid conceptual validation.

Balanced Mode

Implements a standard level of computational detail and an adaptive time step to achieve an optimal balance between computational cost and numerical reliability. This is the standard mode for production analysis and for obtaining verified results.

High Quality Mode

Maximizes computational granularity and uses the smallest possible time step to capture the system's dynamics in maximum detail. This computationally intensive mode of high numerical rigor is designed for final validation and generating definitive data with the highest confidence.
Note: Depending on the mesh size, calculation time may increase significantly.

Results Selection

Define which variables the solver will process for post-simulation analysis:

  • Thickness
  • Melt Fraction
  • Part Temperatures
  • Mould Temperatures
  • Residence Time
Concept: Residence Time of Powder Material

It is the summation of time in each part of the mould that the powder material spent passing through. It provides a parameter of how the powder travels along the mould walls, allowing for a better understanding of the results obtained in thickness, melt fraction, and solidified fraction.

Technical Note: Data will only be generated for the variables selected here. If a variable is not marked, it will not be available in the post-processing environment. Adding new output variables requires a new simulation run.