Advances in the use of simplicial Finite Elements for Flow problems

This fact motivated the rise of alternative simulation approaches (Lattice Boltzmann, Finite Differences, Finite Element Embedded approaches), which approximate the shape of the object of interest by the use of local refinement techniques or simply by employing finer discretizations. Within the area of the Finite Element Method (FEM), the challenge its often addressed by the use of tetrahedral elements which naturally lead to the definition of boundary fitted meshes, when triangulated surfaces are used as starting point. The use of simplex elements makes also available mesh refinement techniques also in the contex of the FEM [1]. Mixed velocity-pressure elements, stabilized using VMS-type or FIC stabilizations [2][3] are employed to form the computational skeleton of the CFD solver developed.