Past Event: CSEM Student Forum

Isogeometric Analysis-Suitable Geometry

Kendrick Shepherd, Oden Institute, UT Austin

Abstract

The engineering design-through-manufacturing process hinges on accurate representation of geometric data for accurate analyses, design optimization, and computer-aided manufacturing. Unfortunately, 60-80% of the design-through-analysis process is devoted to geometry rebuilding in the form of meshing. The current meshing process approximates intended geometries, poorly represents the spectra of underlying geometries, limits feedback between analyses and designs, and involves extensive manual interaction. In this work, it is proposed that computer-aided design (CAD) geometries are rebuilt using CAD-suitable representations generated by frame-fields, discrete Ricci flow, and Strebel differentials. Inspired from the fields of geometry and topology, these tools will generate high-quality, geometry-fitting, feature-aligning, globally semi-structured quadrilateral representations with high-continuity both automatically and with potential for user interaction. Unlike current meshing methods, the resulting geometries will be simultaneously suitable for engineering design, engineering analysis, and engineering manufacturing.