SEMCAD X Matterhorn Release V18.2

With the release of SEMCAD X Matterhorn V18.2, we are introducing new features and extensions that are also implemented and applied in cDASY6. These improvements offer tremendous advantages for R&D engineers who can now toggle between experiments and numerical evaluations using the same visualization and optimization engines.

The first important new addition is a novel robust octree-based adaptive meshing engine that has the power to mesh highly complex surface-based structures, significantly widening the application of the effective unstructured finite element method (FEM) low-frequency solver.

Our 5G Simulation Toolbox has been enhanced with a total exposure ratio (TER) evaluator that allows the cumulative exposure of all frequency bands operating between 100 kHz – 110 GHz to be assessed according to the latest draft of the IEC/IEEE standard series. This new evaluator will soon become available in cDASY6.

SEMCAD X Matterhorn V18.2 further includes an important new feature that allows investigators of different organizations to collaborate more easily by exchanging models without revealing any confidential information.

SEMCAD X V18.2 is now also compatible with Python 3 with the addition of the latest features for automatization of evaluations requested from our numerous power-users.

Finally, V18.2 includes new productivity features and improvements as well as bug fixes, making your simulations more effective.

Feedback, as always, is warmly welcomed – we listen!

Unstructured LF FEM Solver – New Powerful Mesher

NEW OCTREE BASED MESHER

• In SEMCAD X Matterhorn V18.2 a new robust octree-based adaptive meshing approach, which is able to compromise between mesh resolution and geometrical accuracy with respect to the original CAD objects, has been added.
• The development of this version was driven by the requirements of that most complex of 3D objects, the human anatomy. Hence, V18.2 is even well suited for meshing of very complex surface-based or poor-quality models, such as STL files obtained from external sources, with a large range of scales from thin and elongated structures to large objects.
• In particular, to create an unstructured mesh from complex inhomogeneous models, the new mesher is superior to common schemes – especially for bottom-up meshing approaches, whereby sharp features are first meshed, then surfaces, then the interior is filled with volumetric elements, but the last step often fails if the surface contains self-intersections.
• In hybrid mode, the new octree mesher in V18.2 can embed an unstructured mesh of objects, which requires accurate representation of sharp features and/or topology (e.g., coils for WPT systems). Hybrid mode brings together two very different approaches, merging the key benefits of the bottom-up and the octree mesher. 

The new SEMCAD X V18.2 octree-based mesher in action: low-frequency simulation of an automotive wireless power charging system to assess exposure of a nearby kneeling operator. The anatomical model is meshed with a 5 mm resolution, which is sufficient to accurately simulate the electric currents induced inside the different organs. Very coarse resolution is used in the background medium for the unstructured tetrahedral mesh.

Exposure assessment of the wireless power charging system for an electric car and visualization of the result within SEMCAD X V18.2. The metallic body of the car does not completely shield the person kneeling nearby from the magnetic field radiated by the transmit coil, enhanced with a ferrite core.

Unrivaled 5G Simulation Toolbox: Important New Features

mmWAVE COMPLIANCE ASSESSMENT: TOTAL EXPOSURE RATIO

• SEMCAD X V18.2 features an extension that is of particular importance for mobile device engineers – the total exposure ratio (TER) evaluator.
• For devices that have multiple electromagnetic field (EMF) emission sources, regulators require that overall exposure is assessed by considering all sources simultaneously.
• It is not sufficient for each radiative source to comply with the limit effective at its operating frequency: the TER for the device must be below 1. The TER combines exposure ratios of multiple antennas, at frequencies from 100 kHz – 300 GHz.
• Being able to easily compute the TER in a direct manner in SEMCAD X V18.2 allows engineers to keep the big picture in mind and integrate overall exposure assessment early in the design phase of a device.
• The same feature will be made available in DASY 6.14, allowing direct comparison and/or combination of measurement data with the results of SEMCAD X V18.2.

TER combining exposures of a WIFI antenna at 2.4 GHz (1g-averaged specific absorption rate) and a mmWave antenna array at 25 GHz (1cm²-averaged power density) in SEMCAD X V18.2.

mmWAVE COMPLIANCE ASSESSMENT: POWER DENSITY EVALUATORS

• In line with our commitment to be at the forefront of regulatory activities, SEMCAD X’s 5G Toolbox Power Density (PD) evaluators stay ahead of the curve, with the latest requirements of regulators already integrated.
• In SEMCAD X V18.2, the new, conservative algorithm for surface-averaging of PD on flat surfaces, which is required in the latest IEC/IEEE 63195-2 draft standard, has been implemented and is now the default option for PD computation.
• Averaging is performed by rotating a square averaging area by increments of 5° at every point on the evaluation surface and recording the maximum value of PD found at each point.
• Formerly used averaging algorithms, which are useful for obtaining a quick estimate in cases where strict compliance with standards is not necessary, remain available to users.
• These same features have been included in the release of cDASY6 Module mmWave V2.0 as a preview, which already today allows simplified direct comparisons and combinations of measurements and simulations.

PD near a mmWave antenna array operating at 25 GHz, surface-averaged according to the latest IEC/IEEE 63195-2 draft standard. The highest PD is recorded near the second sub-array when the 1 cm² averaging square is at a 45° angle.

Collaboration and Productivity Tools

AVAILABILITY OF PYTHON 3

• SEMCAD X V18.2 now provides users with upgraded Python 3 support and an application program interface (API) to meet the requirements of the market and to keep up with the latest generation of Python 3.
• Python 2.7 has reached its end-of-life (EOL), thus community support will be discontinued. With the addition of Python 3, SEMCAD X’s Python API is future-proof.
• Until further notice, Python 2.7 will also still be supported by SEMCAD X to guarantee backwards compatibility of user scripts and a smooth transition to newer versions.

COLLABORATIVE EXCHANGE OF CONFIDENTIAL MODELS 

• Until now, only the Virtual Population models of the IT'IS Foundation could be shared as licensed models. In SEMCAD X Matterhorn V18.2, we have now extended this feature to empower other parties to share models without disclosing confidential content. If interested, please request more detailed information and a license at sales@speag.swiss. 

A more comprehensive list of improvements, fixes, and new features is included in the Release Notes.

To experience the power and elegance of SEMCAD X Matterhorn V18.2 or for further information, please email us at semx-sales@speag.swiss or call us at +41 44 245 9700.

The relevant SEMCAD X Matterhorn installers for Win7/Win8/8.1/Win10 64-bit platforms can be downloaded here. Existing customers with an up-to-date annual maintenance and support plan will receive individually all pertinent information regarding the software installer download and updated licenses.

SPEAG is committed to empowering our customers to reach new heights of productivity and scientific achievement by providing outstanding innovative software solutions, testing equipment, and service.

We strongly recommend that users upgrade SEMCAD X to the full Version of Sim4Life. If interested, please request a special upgrade price: this offer is valid until the end of March 2020.

The SEMCAD X Matterhorn and Sim4Life Teams