Create: Data Sampling¶
The Data Sampling tools extract targeted simulation data from specific regions of the fluid domain. Each tool has a pre-set dimensionality which informs the structure and dimensionality of the returned sample data. For example, zero-dimensional probes return data at specific points, one-dimensional sampling lines return data along a pre-set line segment, and two-dimensional output planes return data over a pre-set sampling surface. These tools let users record targeted output which supports both quick diagnostics and detailed analysis while keeping storage overhead to a minimum.
Data Sampling tools are classified into two types: Simple and Complex. Simple tools are fully self-contained and do not require additional child geometry to operate. They perform sampling directly on the defined shape, such as a point, line, or plane. Complex tools, by contrast, rely on instructions to compute a surface or secondary geometry at runtime. Depending on the tool, this output may be based on predefined child geometry or dynamically generated surfaces derived from the simulation field.
Simple Tools
Probe: Probes record time-varying values at a single point. These are useful for monitoring velocity, pressure, temperature, or species concentration at key locations. Probes can be fixed in space, follow the fluid, or move along a user-defined path through the domain.
Output Line: Output lines extract continuous profiles along straight-line segments. These are useful for sampling cross sections and examining axial/radial variations in flow.
Output Plane: Output planes are lattice-aligned 2D rectangles that span the entirety of the main lattice. The direction and position of the output plane is set by the user. Output planes are useful for visualizing spatial variations across the system without storing full volumetric data.
Complex Tools
Output Surface: Output surfaces are arbitrary 2D surfaces that sample local regions of the lattice. The shape of the output surface is defined using either built-in or imported children geometry. Output surfaces are useful for visualizing local spatial variations without storing full volumetric data.
Isosurface: Isosurfaces represent three-dimensional contours where a selected variable (e.g., velocity magnitude, shear strain rate, concentration) maintains a constant value throughout the domain. Once generated, other scalar values can be projected onto the surface for more complex visualization. Isosurfaces are particularly useful for identifying coherent flow structures and interpreting spatial gradients.