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 during mesh generation 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 providing sizing information based on geometric and non-geometric factors, and an interpolation module for calculating the 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 an assembly. Disconnected skeletons are extracted and used as tools to measure 3D-proximity and 2D-proximity, which are two of the geometric factors. Non-geometric factors such as user-defined size and pre-meshed entities that influence size are also addressed. The framework is effective in generating a variety of meshes of industry models with less computational cost. © 2005 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.