Abstract

Finite element mesh adaptation methods can be used to improve the efficiency and accuracy of solutions to computational modeling problems. For many finite element modeling applications, a conforming all-hexahedral mesh is preferred. When adapting a hexahedral mesh, localized modifications that preserve topologic conformity are often desired. Effective hexahedral refinement methods that satisfy these criteria have recently become available. However, due to hexahedral mesh topology constraints, little progress has been made in the area of hexahedral coarsening. This thesis presents a new method to locally coarsen conforming all-hexahedral meshes. The method works on both structured and unstructured meshes and is not based on undoing previous refinement. Building upon recent developments in quadrilateral coarsening, the method utilizes hexahedral sheet and column operations, including pillowing, column collapsing, and sheet extraction. A general algorithm for automated coarsening is presented and examples of models that have been coarsened are shown. While results are promising, further work is needed to improve the automated process.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology; Civil and Environmental Engineering

Rights

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