Surface Edge Refinement

Surface Edge Refinement#

Surface edge refinement enables precise control over mesh resolution in proximity to geometric edges, which is essential for accurately capturing critical features such as leading edges, trailing edges, and regions characterized by high curvature.

Available Options#

Option

Description

Method

Refinement methodology selection

Assigned edges

Target edges for refinement application

Detailed Descriptions#

Method#

Option

Description

Height

Controls mesh refinement based on specified initial layer height

Angle

Refines mesh based on local geometric curvature angle

Project aniso spacing

Projects anisotropic spacing from surface to edges

Aspect ratio

Controls element quality by limiting maximum aspect ratio

Assigned edges#

Identifies the geometric edges where refinement will be applied.

  • Required

Notes:

  • Must reference valid edge entities in the geometry.

  • Assign the edges by selecting from the list using the + button or select graphically in the viewer region.

💡 Tips

  • Begin with height-based method for aerodynamic surfaces requiring precise y+ control

  • Utilize angle-based method for complex curved geometries

  • Apply aspect ratio method in regions where element quality is critical

  • Ensure smooth transitions between refined and unrefined regions

  • Consider geometric scale when setting height values

Height-Based Method Guidelines

  • Set height based on desired y+ value and flow conditions

  • Typical values range from 1e-6 to 1e-3 meters

  • Consider Reynolds number and flow regime

  • Ensure sufficient resolution for boundary layer development

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I choose between different refinement methods?

    Select height based for precise y+ control, angle based for complex geometries, project aniso spacing for maintaining continuity with adjacent mesh regions, and aspect ratio for quality control.

  • What happens if multiple edge refinements overlap?

    The finest (smallest) spacing will be applied in overlapping regions.

🐍 Python Example Usage

 
from flow360 import SurfaceEdgeRefinement, HeightBasedRefinement, u

# Height-based edge refinement
edge_refinement = SurfaceEdgeRefinement(
    name="leading_edge",
    edges=[leading_edge],
    method=HeightBasedRefinement(value=0.001 * u.m)
)

# Angle-based edge refinement
edge_angle_ref = SurfaceEdgeRefinement(
    name="curved_edge",
    edges=[curved_edge],
    method=AngleBasedRefinement(value=5 * u.deg)
)

# Aspect ratio-based edge refinement
edge_aspect_ref = SurfaceEdgeRefinement(
    name="transition_edge",
    edges=[transition_edge],
    method=AspectRatioBasedRefinement(value=10)
)
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