Unified Matching Grids for Multidomain Multiphysics Simulations

Grid generation for multiple-domain multiple-physics problems in which the single-physics components are applied on disjoint abutting domains is considered. In general, grids that are separately constructed for each domain, as is the case when one uses legacy codes, may have overlaps and gaps and have grid points that do not match along the interface between the domains. Using very simple settings, the possible difficulties that can arise when using nonmatching grids are illustrated. Then, based on centroidal Voronoi tessellation gridding strategies, an algorithm is presented for the unified construction of grids in multiple domains that match perfectly, i.e., have no gaps or overlaps and have only common cell faces where they abut. Grid refinement is effected both to resolve boundaries, including interfaces, and to refine in regions of interest. The use of the matching grid construction algorithm is illustrated through its application to a simple example as well as to ocean-land gridding on the globe. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]