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A posteriori error analysis for a cut cell finite volume method

Journal Article · · Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering
OSTI ID:1018731

We study the solution of a diffusive process in a domain where the diffusion coefficient changes discontinuously across a curved interface. We consider discretizations that use regularly-shaped meshes, so that the interface “cuts” through the cells (elements or volumes) without respecting the regular geometry of the mesh. Consequently, the discontinuity in the diffusion coefficients has a strong impact on the accuracy and convergence of the numerical method. This motivates the derivation of computational error estimates that yield accurate estimates for specified quantities of interest. For this purpose, we adapt the well-known adjoint based a posteriori error analysis technique used for finite element methods. In order to employ this method, we describe a systematic approach to discretizing a cut-cell problem that handles complex geometry in the interface in a natural fashion yet reduces to the well-known Ghost Fluid Method in simple cases. We test the accuracy of the estimates in a series of examples.

Research Organization:
Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC07-05ID14517
OSTI ID:
1018731
Report Number(s):
INL/JOU-09-17376
Journal Information:
Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering, Journal Name: Computer Methods in Applied Mechanics and Engineering Journal Issue: 37 - 40 Vol. 200; ISSN 0045-7825; ISSN CMMECC
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English