Layers mesh generator

Definition

This mesh generator, based on the MeshGems-Hybrid module of Distene, is a mixed mesh elements generator in Flux (it creates hexahedra, prisms, pyramids, or tetrahedra).

It allows to mesh the boundary of volumes in layers with extruded elements (prisms, hexahedra) and relax the mesh in the remaining volume.

It is based on the initial surface mesh of the volume without modifying it.

This mesh generator is especially useful to mesh the skin depth.

Use

This mesh generator can be assigned to volumes only.

It is robust, simple and fast to use, even on complex shapes.

Control options

There are two possible control options for the zone to be meshed with layers:

  • Either by defining the global height of all layers.

    Then there are two parameters to work on:
    • the number of layers
    • the geometric progression coefficient of layers (i.e. the growth parameter between two adjacent layers)
    Note: Modifying these two parameters will not change the global height of the zone meshed with layers.

  • Or by defining the height of the first layer.

    Then there are two parameters to work on:
    • the number of layers
    • the geometric progression coefficient of layers (i.e. the growth parameter between two adjacent layers)
    Note: Modifying these two parameters will change the global height of the zone meshed with layers.

And for both cases, there are another parameter to work on: the dominant element type (tetrahedron or hexahedron) in the remaining volume.

Limitation

The layers are applied if the space allows it (i.e. not on very thin zones, neither hypertangency).

Example

The volume meshing with the Layers mesh generator is illustrated in the figure below:

[1] Remaining volume meshed with tetrahedra mainly

[2] Remaining volume meshed with hexahedra mainly