Abstract: A thermal energy apparatus and methodology 10 including a computer 12, operating under stored program control, to selectively allow elements 26 and 28 to be created and partitioned and to further allow the partitioning to be dispensed with upon calculating the radiation aspect of the thermal model. The thermal calculation and measurement apparatus and methodology can further include a means for allowing elements 102-108 to be created and thereafter allow an amorphous potting solution or other model wide elements 120 to be integrated into the model without detrimentally affecting the previously created elements 102-108.