A CAD-centric Approach to CFD Analysis With Discrete Features

CAD models from conceptual design often follow the “over-the-wall” approach for downstream analyses such as FEA, CFD, heat transfer, and vibrations. The CAD-centric approach consists of using the CAD model as a source of data for downstream applications such as mesh generation, and CFD setup. The CAD model used in the CAD-centric approach contains the geometry to be analyzed and all non-geometric data required to mesh and solve the CFD model in the form of attributes. A special class of topology change, the discrete feature problem, is encountered when an array of features instances change in number. A method is proposed, developed and reported on that automates the CAD to CFD process, including fluid domain creation, while addressing the discrete feature problem that can occur during preliminary design.