A simple algorithm for structured-grid generation with application to efficient Navier-Stokes computation

Abstract A grid generation procedure using a simple algorithm is presented. The present method is essentially based on the electro-static theory. By distributing electric charges at the boundary points, an electro-static vector field is produced inside the region between the inner and outer boundaries. The resulting electric force lines, which all emanate from grid points on the body, can be utilized as one family of grid lines. The other family of grid lines is easily constructed by plotting points at regular intervals along the electric force lines. The electric charge distribution is uniquely determined by an appropriate boundary condition, as long as the total amount of charges on each closed boundary is constant. The actual Navier-Stokes simulation using the block-structured grid generated by the present method was also carried out for a complex space vehicle configuration.