Precise Simulation has released FEATool Multiphysics version 1.18, an update to its finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) multi-solver simulation software.
The release includes a redesigned graphical user interface (GUI), expanded MATLAB integration and additional features intended for engineering and research applications in industry and academia.
Updated FEA, CFD and CAE simulation workflows
A key feature of FEATool Multiphysics is its Multiphysics application programming interface (API), which includes one-click export and automatic conversion of simulation models to MATLAB and Python scripts. This allows users to define and set up models in the GUI and then export and run them programmatically for parametric studies, data generation and analysis workflows, including those used for physics-informed neural networks (PINNs), machine learning (ML) and AI-related simulations.
Several published research projects demonstrate this workflow. For example, researchers at Pusan National University in Korea have used FEATool Multiphysics to generate reference and validation data for machine-learning-based CFD models. MATLAB integration enabled scripting, automation and preparation of simulation data for deep learning models.
In another example, researchers developed a digital twin framework for visualization and design of smart kitchens, using FEATool Multiphysics to control mesh generation and CFD solvers such as OpenFOAM and to generate large datasets for training purposes.
In medical research, FEATool Multiphysics has been used to support the development of methods for improving vascular blood flow imaging using PINNs. Training data was generated by simulating the Navier–Stokes equations across multiple flow conditions and geometries.
Additional examples and references are available on the FEATool Multiphysics website.
New graphical user interface
FEATool Multiphysics 1.18 introduces a new GUI frontend framework designed to provide consistent behavior across operating systems, platforms and MATLAB versions.
The updated GUI replaces the web- and JavaScript-based interface introduced in MATLAB 2025a. According to Precise Simulation, the new interface improves responsiveness and consistency compared with the previous web-based approach. Interface updates include:
- Input validation: Numerical inputs and mathematical expressions are validated in real time to help identify syntax errors.
- Domain selection tools: Grouping tools support selection and assignment of properties to subdomains and boundaries.
- Cross-platform support: A consistent interface is provided across Windows and Linux as a stand-alone desktop application and as a MATLAB toolbox. Legacy MATLAB versions from 2009b through 2026a are supported on Windows, Linux and macOS.
CFD and FEA simulation tutorials
A new step-by-step tutorial demonstrates heat transfer simulation and cooling analysis for a battery pack used in automotive and lithium-ion energy storage applications. The example assumes one prismatic cell has failed and generates elevated heat.
Two cases are examined:
- A pack insulated on all sides except the front and back, with natural convection cooling
- A second case with increased cooling at the bottom of the pack
The tutorial also shows how to simplify heat transfer modeling between battery cell walls by modifying the heat equation directly and introducing anisotropic thermal conductivity.
General toolbox updates
Additional updates and fixes in version 1.18 include:
- Mesh generation updates for third-party tools including Gmsh and Triangle
- Updated OpenCASCADE geometry engine to version 7.9.3 for Windows and Linux
- Stability updates and dictionary fixes for OpenFOAM solvers including chtMultiRegionFoam
- Updated SU2 CFD solver to version 8.0.1
Availability and download
FEATool Multiphysics 1.18 and CFDTool 1.11 are available as stand-alone desktop applications and as MATLAB toolbox add-ons with interactive GUIs. The software supports Windows, Linux and macOS and can be downloaded from www.featool.com/download or installed through the MATLAB Add-Ons Toolbar.
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