Solver Setup
Choose the right solver type and configure calculation parameters.
The solver is the mathematical core of every FEM simulation, it solves the equation system built from your geometry, materials, loads, and boundary conditions.
Solver types
| Solver | When to use |
|---|---|
| Linear Static | Standard choice for most tasks. Assumes small deformations and linear material behaviour. Fastest. |
| Nonlinear Static | Large deformations, plasticity, or contact problems. Longer computation, requires parameter tuning. |
| Modal | Vibration analysis, calculates natural frequencies and mode shapes. No loads required. |
Setup process
- Open the Calculation section
- Dr.Q selects the solve path automatically (linear, or nonlinear for large deflection, plasticity, or contact); it can be overridden via the API
- Review the summary, geometry, material, loads, boundary conditions
- Adjust parameters if needed
- Proceed to job submission
Key parameters
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Convergence tolerance | Maximum allowed residual, smaller = more accurate but slower |
| Maximum iterations | Solver aborts if not converged within this limit |
| Load steps (nonlinear) | More steps = better convergence for highly nonlinear problems |
Only change default values if you have a specific reason to. Incorrect convergence tolerance or load step settings are a common cause of unnecessary solver failures.
Common mistakes
- Choosing nonlinear when linear would suffice, wastes computation time
- Using the linear solver with active frictional contact, produces incorrect results
- Wrong solver type for the analysis goal (e.g., linear static for a vibration question)