hfss large structure
cristiano shalom,
Theoretically, HFSS can solve anything
Practically it is limitted by the hardware resources (memory ussually).
The first thing I would do is to post here your simulation profile of a model that convereged and gives you satisfying results (Results->Solution Data->Profile. Click the export button). This will allow to evaluate the memory needed by the solver.
HFSS users measure the size of the model in wavelenghts. By increasing the mesh adaptation frequency from 500 MHz to 1GHz you have decreased the wavelength by 2, but increased the size of the model by (at most) 8 (2X*2Y*2Z=8*X*Y*Z).
You should contact an Ansoft AE and ask about the following:
1. Use the new HFSS v10 model healing /defeaturing that allows you to automatically convert the mechanical model into a simplified electromagnetic model.
2. Use the new HFSS v10 mesh model resolution feature to reduce the mesh before the solver.
3. Use mesh surface approximation in order to trace the curved contours with a rougher mesh (the default is intended for antennas, but who cares if the metal around the wheels will not be exactly round).
4. If nothing helps you would need a EM64 bit computer with more RAM. I do not know how much more. You should ask the AE to approximate based on your lower frequency solutions how much more RAM will be needed in the higher frequencies. FYI, 32 bit Windows XP with 4GB RAM will allow the HFSS solver to use 3GB RAM. Above that 64bit is needed.
Regards,
Itai