Working with multiple models

xFDS can generate multiple models from a single pbd.yml configuration file. Each item under the render parameter will be processed.

This is useful if when modeling drastically different sections of a building. For example, in modeling a large building such as an airport, the arrival terminal and gate areas may not need to be in the same simulation.

Another good use for this is to create small test cases. Three different models are defined in the example below:

  • The primary model used for production
  • A simple mesh resolution study
  • A verification study to ensure the burner is working correctly.

Warning

xFDS will always render EVERY model listed. Future versions will allow you to select which models to render.

Info

See the full example to see how the models are used and rendered.

examples/multi_model/pbd.yml
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xfds:
  render:
    # Primary model
    - name: main_model
      files:
        - main_model.fds
        - main_model.pbs
      variables:
        hrr: 1000 # kW
        area: 1.5 # m
        res: 20 # cm
        bounds: [0, 20, 0, 30] # ft
        floors: [0, 12, 24, 36] # ft
        n_proc: 3

    # Mesh resolution study local to fire
    - name: mesh_res_{{res}}cm
      files:
        - mesh.fds
      variables:
        hrr: 1000 # kW
        area: 1.5 # m
        bounds: [-2, 2, -2, 2, 0, 4]
      parameters:
        res: [10, 15, 20] # cm

    # Test to ensure burner is specified correctly
    - name: simple_burner
      files:
        - simple_burner.fds
      variables:
        hrr: 1000 # kW
        area: 1.5 # m