Improved 3D plotting

The generation of attractive and accurate three-dimensional views of meshes, particle orbits and calculated quantities was a challenge in creating 3D finite-element programs in our AMaze series. The standard approach to 3D graphics is to use a library like OpenGL where surfaces are approximated with the the minimum number of facets that provide a psychologically-satisfying sense [...]

Making movies with the AMaze programs

A previous post described new graphics features planned for the AMaze series of programs. They will be included with the October 1 update. The motivation is the creation of animations (movies in AVI format). We are adding expanded capabilities to the initial-value solution programs and postprocessors to generate sequences of BMP plot files, either autonomously or [...]

Saved Views in MetaMesh and the AMaze postprocessors

Plotting is critical to understand meshes and field solutions in three-dimensional spaces. In consequence, we have included a wide variety of options for creating plots in MetaMesh and the analysis programs PhiView, MagView, HWV, RFE3View and Aerial. For example, the following information is neede to create a 3D view of a mesh:

Parameters of the point of [...]

Advanced 3D graphics and movie capabilities

We’re making some major advances in the graphics capabilities of programs in the 3D AMaze series. We expect to release updates in the early Fall.  The improvements lie in three areas:

Saved views
It takes effort and experimentation to set up optimal 2D or 3D views in postprocessors like PhiView and MagView. We are adding an option to [...]

Expanded plot features in MagWinder

One of the major task in simulating three-dimensional electromagnets is the definition of complex drive coils. The utility MagWinder is part of the Magnum program suite. Drive circuits are represented in Magnum by dividing them into a large set of short segments (or current elements). MagWinder provides an interactive environment where users can build magnet windings [...]