Curvilinear Interface Methodology for Finite-Element Applications

Recent trends in design and manufacturing suggest a tendency toward multiple centers of specialty which results in a need for improved integration methodology for dissimilar finite element or CFD meshes. Since a typical finite element or CFD analysis requires about 50% of an engineers effort to be devoted to modeling and input, there is a need to advance the state-of-the-art in modeling, methodology. These two trends indicate a need to for the capability to combine independently-modeled configurations in an automated and robust way without the need for global remodeling. One approach to addressing this need is the development of interfacing methodology which will automatically integrate independently modeled subdomains. The present research included the following objectives: (i) to develop and implement computational methods for automatically remodeling non-coincident finite element models having a pre-defined interface, (ii) to formulate and implement a parametric representation of general space curves and surfaces with a well-defined orientation, and (iii) to demonstrate the computational methodology with representative two- and three-dimensional finite element models. Methodology for automatically remodeling non-coincident subdomains was developed and tested for two- and three-dimensional, independently modeled subdomains. Representative classes of applications have been solved which gave good agreement with reference solutions obtained with conventional methods. The two-dimensional classes of problems solved included flat and curved membranes multiple subdomains having large gaps between the subdomains and general space curves representing an interface for re-modeling the portions of subdomains adjacent to the interface. The three-dimensional classes of problems solved includes multiple three-dimensional subdomains having large three-dimensional gap between previously modeled subdomains. The interface was represented by general surfaces with a well-defined orientation and having curvature in possibly more than one direction. The results demonstrated the re-modeling methodology to be general, flexible in use, highly automated, and robust for a diverse class of problems. The research reported represents an important advancement in the area of automated re-modeling for computational mechanics applications

A multi-layer reduced model for flow in porous media with a fault and surrounding damage zones

In this work we present a new conceptual model to describe fluid flow in a porous media system in presence of a large fault. Geological faults are often modeled simply as interfaces in the rock matrix, but they are complex structure where the high strain core is surrounded by the so called damage zones, characterized by the presence of smaller fractures which enhance the permeability of the medium. To obtain reliable simulation outcomes these damage zone, as well as the fault, have to be accurately described. The new model proposed in this work considers both these two regions as lower dimensional and embedded in the rock matrix. The model is presented, analyzed, and tested in several configurations to prove its robustness and ability to capture many important features, such as hight contrast and heterogeneity of permeability