Assign Solar Radiation to Surfaces

Use the Surface tool to apply solar radiation properties to selected surfaces. Solar heat flux is calculated on these surfaces based on the defined solar radiation model.

  1. From the Radiation ribbon, click the Surface tool.


    Figure 1.
  2. Using the guide bar selector, choose whether to define the boundary condition on Surfaces or Thin Solids.
    Note: You can only select thin solids if layers have been defined using the Thin tool.
  3. Select surfaces/thin solids.
  4. For thin solids, select a direction option from the guide bar.
    Option Description
    Direction: Away from Parent Surface Define the condition on the boundary surface furthest from the parent surface.
    Direction: Adjacent to Parent Surface Define the condition on the boundary surface closest to the parent surface.
    Direction: Both Sides Define the condition on both sides of the boundary surface.
  5. In the microdialog, select a solar radiation model from the drop-down menu or select Solar Radiation Model Library to create, edit, and manage custom solar radiation models.
  6. From the guide bar, execute the command in the following ways:
    • Click to confirm your selection and remain in the tool.

      This allows you to continue creating instances and helps you visualize and edit instances with the legend.

    • Click to confirm your selection and exit the tool.