Normalizing time in COMSOL

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Hi everybody, I have a probem in data elaboration. I use a time dependent solver and often run simulations that result in having different virtual times. For instance, I can run a parametric sweep changing some parameters and as an outcome, the virtual simulation time can change even in orders of magnitude.

I would like to understand how can I normalize my simulations with time by plotting t/t_max. If I use a nonlocal coupling on time itself, it will result in a vertical line at x=1.

I use both 6.2 and 6.4 versions. Thanks in advance.


3 Replies Last Post 12 nov. 2026, 06:34 UTC−5
Edgar J. Kaiser Certified Consultant

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Posted: 16 hours ago 11 nov. 2026, 14:58 UTC−5

If you want to plot diagrams you can use the t/t_max expression for the x-axis. If you want use the normalized time in a more general approach it may get more complex. You might consider a model method for that.

Cheers Edgar

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Edgar J. Kaiser
emPhys Physical Technology
www.emphys.com
If you want to plot diagrams you can use the t/t_max expression for the x-axis. If you want use the normalized time in a more general approach it may get more complex. You might consider a model method for that. Cheers Edgar

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Posted: 14 hours ago 11 nov. 2026, 17:10 UTC−5

Thank you for your reply.

I was, indeed, trying to normalize each of my curves using exactly the maximum value of time for each of my curves. However, t_max isn't a native COMSOL variable. It's fine for me using a postprocessed value. Should I define a custom variable? If so, how? Simply using a nonlocal coupling in the definition node and defining t_max = maxop1(t) to then use an expression like t/t_max gives back the straight line x=1.

Thank you for your reply. I was, indeed, trying to normalize each of my curves using exactly the maximum value of time for each of my curves. However, t_max isn't a native COMSOL variable. It's fine for me using a postprocessed value. Should I define a custom variable? If so, how? Simply using a nonlocal coupling in the definition node and defining t_max = maxop1(t) to then use an expression like t/t_max gives back the straight line x=1.

Edgar J. Kaiser Certified Consultant

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Posted: 10 minutes ago 12 nov. 2026, 06:34 UTC−5
Updated: 9 minutes ago 12 nov. 2026, 06:35 UTC−5

Simply define a parameter t_max. You can then use it in the settings for the time stepping and in post processing. Nonlocal couplings are not for this context.

-------------------
Edgar J. Kaiser
emPhys Physical Technology
www.emphys.com
Simply define a parameter t_max. You can then use it in the settings for the time stepping and in post processing. Nonlocal couplings are not for this context.

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