A Computational Framework for Generating Sizing Function in Assembly Meshing

Abstract

This paper proposes a framework for generating sizing function in meshing assemblies. Size control is crucial in obtaining a high-quality mesh with a reduced number of elements, which decreases computational time and memory use duringm eshg eneration and analysis. This proposed framework is capable of generating a sizing function based on geometric and non-geometric factors that influence mesh size. The framework consists of a background octree grid for storing the sizing function,a set of source entities for providings izing information based on geometric and non-geometric factors, and an interpolation module for calculatingthe sizing on the background octree grid using the source entities. Source entities are generated by performing a detailed systematic study to identify all the geometric factors of ana ssembly. Disconnected skeletons are extracted and used as tools to measure 3D-proximity and 2D-proximity, which are two of the geometric factors. Non-geometric factorss ucha s user-defined size and pre-meshed entities that influence size are also addressed. The framework is effective ing enerating a variety ofm eshes of industrym odels with less computational cost.

Automatic All Quadrilateral Mesh Adaption through Refinement and Coarsening

“…The major drawback of initial adaptive mesh generation is that it requires significant foresight into the probable results of the analysis which are used to determine element sizes and an appropriate distribution of element density across the mesh. Because of this required foresight, initial mesh generation techniques that incorporate sizing are particularly useful when based on geometric characteristics of the model [5].…”

“…A solution based sizing function might specify an increased element density in regions of high stress or strain gradients. Geometry based sizing functions, such as a skeleton sizing function [5] [15], consider feature size as well as surface or boundary curvature and specify an appropriate element density throughout the mesh.…”

“…If refinement is needed anywhere in the mesh, those regions are refined. 5. Following the refinement of elements in the mesh, the entire mesh surface is cleaned-up.…”

Hexahedral Mesh Refinement Using an Error Sizing Function

“…It is often beneficial to increase element density (i.e. to refine) in the mesh where the error estimates are high or where there are small features in the geometry [7].…”

“…To define the element density, sizing functions based on error estimates, geometric features of the model, and stress and strain gradients are often used [8,9]. Some effective element density distributions can be determined simply, from the analyst"s experience using manual mesh refinement tools [10] or from comprehensive geometric reasoning algorithms that automatically compute a sizing function based on features of the model [7]. The resulting sizing function can often be used by sophisticated mesh generation algorithms[10] to compute a well graded meshes.…”