A Mesh Generation Method Based on ICEM for Multibody Complex Structure Models

Abstract

This invention provides a mesh generation method for multi-body complex structure models based on ICEM, comprising: establishing a 3D model of the multi-body complex structure; importing the model into ICEM and determining whether the topology of the multi-body complex model is correct; identifying the surfaces of multiple individuals of the multi-body complex structure in ICEM in an inside-out order; creating each individual in an inside-out order, wherein for any individual model, if no individual model is in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, the individual is created by using surfaces to enclose the individual; if any individual model is in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, the individual is created using a two-point method; for the spatial volume model, the spatial volume is created using a two-point method; generating the mesh corresponding to the individual and verifying the mesh. The technical solution of this invention solves the technical problems of poor operability and high error rate in mesh generation of multi-body complex structure models in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of mesh generation technology, and in particular to a mesh generation method based on ICEM for multi-body complex structure models. Background Technology

[0002] In finite element method (FE) simulations, problems often arise involving multiple solid bodies within a defined space. Specifically, meshing of both the fluid and solid regions needs to be performed simultaneously. ICEM offers various meshing methods: automatic meshing of the entire model, methods that use all faces to form the meshing region, and methods that determine the meshing region using two points. These methods can also mesh different computational domains when performing meshing for multi-body problems within a given space. Currently, a common method in ICEM for meshing multi-body problems within a given space is to find two points within the region of each body. The system can automatically identify the minimum envelope space enclosed by all the nearest faces within the space containing these two points, generating a body, and then performing meshing within this body.

[0003] While existing technologies can solve the problem of multi-body mesh generation within a certain space, they are only suitable for relatively simple physical models where the interfaces between each body and the spatial region are clear, the overall shape of the region is regular, and there are few or no complex curved surfaces. For models with complex shapes, numerous internal spatial models, and irregular shapes, the existing methods are difficult to operate in the process of identifying two points. The system struggles to identify the minimum envelope of the region containing the two points or may identify other regions outside of the two points, resulting in the mesh generation of the entire model not achieving the expected results and thus making simulation calculations impossible. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a mesh generation method based on ICEM for multi-body complex structure models, which can solve the technical problems of poor operability and high identification error rate in the existing technology for mesh generation of multi-body complex structure models.

[0005] This invention provides a mesh generation method for multi-body complex structure models based on ICEM. The mesh generation method includes: establishing a 3D model of the multi-body complex structure, which includes a spatial volume model and multiple individual models, with the individual models set within the spatial volume model; importing the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure into ICEM, determining whether the topology of the multi-body complex model is correct, and if the topology is incorrect, repairing the topology until it is correct; based on the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure, confirming the surfaces of the multiple individuals of the multi-body complex structure in ICEM in an inside-out order; and confirming the surfaces of the individuals in the multi-body complex structure in an inside-out order. The individual models are created sequentially. For any individual model, if it is not in contact with the space volume model or other remaining individual models, it is created by enclosing the surface. If it is in contact with the space volume model or other remaining individual models, it is created by two-point method. For the space volume model, the space volume is created by two-point method. The individual models are displayed sequentially from the inside out, and a mesh corresponding to each individual is generated when it is displayed. The meshes generated for each individual are verified. If the mesh generated for any individual is not within the expected area, the individual model is recreated until the mesh of any individual is within the expected area, thus completing the mesh generation of the multi-body complex structure model.

[0006] Furthermore, when any individual model comes into contact with a spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, the two-point method of creating an individual specifically includes: when any individual model comes into contact with a spatial volume model, selecting a point on the surface of any individual and selecting a point on the contact surface between any individual model and the spatial volume model, thus creating the individual using the two-point method; when any individual model comes into contact with other individual models, selecting a point on the surface of any individual and selecting a point on the contact surface between any individual model and other individual models, thus creating the individual using the two-point method.

[0007] Furthermore, for the spatial volume model, the two-point method for creating the spatial volume specifically includes: selecting a point on the surface of the spatial volume model, and selecting a point on the surface of an individual model that is not in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, thus creating the spatial volume using the two-point method.

[0008] Furthermore, determining whether the topology of a multi-body complex model is correct specifically includes: determining whether each surface of the multi-body complex model is closed; when the multi-body complex model displays a set first color, the topology of the multi-body complex model is considered correct; when the multi-body complex model displays a set second color, the topology of the multi-body complex model is considered incorrect.

[0009] Furthermore, when the mesh generated by any individual is not within the expected area, recreating any individual specifically includes: when the mesh generated by any individual is not within the expected area, reselecting at least one of the points on the surface of the individual model, the points on the contact surface between the individual model and other individual models, and the points on the contact surface between the individual model and the space volume model, and constructing the individual based on the two reselected points in a two-point manner.

[0010] This invention provides a meshing method for complex multi-body structure models based on ICEM. This method constructs individual bodies using different methods depending on the contact situation of each individual model. For individual models not in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, they are created by enclosing surfaces. For individual models in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, and the spatial volume model itself, they are created using a two-point method. This method accurately identifies the minimum envelope space of each individual, resulting in high meshing accuracy. Furthermore, the individual surface confirmation, individual creation, and mesh generation are all performed in an inside-out order. This method more accurately identifies the region where each individual is located, reduces errors during meshing, and improves work efficiency. Therefore, compared with existing technologies, the ICEM-based meshing method for complex multi-body structure models provided by this invention can more quickly mesh complex multi-body physical models within a certain space, reduce errors during meshing, and improve work efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification, are provided to further illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the textual description, explain the principles of the invention. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative effort.

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a three-dimensional model of a multi-body complex structure provided according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0013] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating the inspection of the topology of a complex multibody model according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating the surfaces of multiple individuals in a complex multibody structure, provided according to a specific embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0015] Figure 4A schematic diagram of creating individual models according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0016] Figures 5 to 7 A schematic diagram illustrating the mesh division of individual components according to a specific embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0017] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of them. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0018] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0019] like Figures 1 to 7As shown in the figure, a mesh generation method for multi-body complex structure models based on ICEM is provided according to a specific embodiment of the present invention. The mesh generation method includes: establishing a three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure, the three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure including a spatial volume model and multiple individual models, the multiple individual models being set within the spatial volume model; importing the three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure into ICEM (The Integrated Computer Engineering Model). In ICEM (and Manufacturing), the topology of the multi-body complex model is checked for correctness. If the topology is incorrect, it is repaired until correct. Based on the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure, the surfaces of multiple individuals in ICEM are confirmed in an inside-out order. Individuals are created in an inside-out order. For any individual model, if it is not in contact with the space volume model or other remaining individual models, it is created by using surfaces to enclose the individual. If it is in contact with the space volume model or other remaining individual models, it is created using a two-point method. For the space volume model, it is created using a two-point method. Individuals are displayed sequentially from the inside out, and a mesh corresponding to each individual is generated when it is displayed. The meshes generated for each individual are verified. If the mesh of any individual is not within the expected area, the individual is recreated until the mesh of any individual is within the expected area, thus completing the mesh generation of the multi-body complex structure model.

[0020] This configuration method provides a meshing approach for complex multi-body structural models based on ICEM. This method constructs individual bodies using different methods depending on the contact situation of each individual model. For individual models not in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, they are created by enclosing surfaces. For individual models in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, and the spatial volume model itself, a two-point method is used to create individuals. This approach accurately identifies the minimum envelope space of each individual, resulting in high meshing accuracy. Furthermore, the process of confirming individual surfaces, creating individuals, and generating meshes follows an inside-out sequence. This approach more accurately identifies the regions where each individual is located, reduces errors during meshing, and improves efficiency. Therefore, compared with existing technologies, the ICEM-based meshing method for complex multi-body structural models provided by this invention can more quickly mesh complex multi-body physical models within a certain space, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

[0021] Specifically, in this invention, to achieve mesh generation for a multi-body complex structure model, it is first necessary to establish a three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure. This three-dimensional model includes a spatial volume model and multiple individual models, with the individual models positioned within the spatial volume model. Three-dimensional modeling software can be used to establish the three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure, ensuring that the models requiring mesh generation are properly configured to avoid interference between different surfaces and volumes during modeling.

[0022] Furthermore, after establishing a three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure, the three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure can be imported into ICEM to determine whether the topology of the multi-body complex model is correct. If the topology of the multi-body complex model is incorrect, the topology of the multi-body complex model is repaired until the topology of the multi-body complex model is correct.

[0023] Specifically, in this invention, determining whether the topology of a multi-body complex model is correct includes: determining whether each surface of the multi-body complex model is closed. When the multi-body complex model displays a set first color, its topology is considered correct; when it displays a set second color, its topology is considered incorrect. As a specific embodiment of this invention, the first color includes red or blue, and the second color includes yellow. The 3D model of the multi-body complex structure is imported into ICEM for model repair and topology establishment. When all curves of the multi-body complex model display red or blue, it indicates that the model's topology is correct, and mesh generation can be performed. If yellow curves appear, it indicates that there are unclosed surfaces, requiring repair of the 3D model in ICEM or in 3D modeling software.

[0024] Furthermore, after determining and repairing the topology of the multi-body complex model, the surfaces of multiple individuals within the multi-body complex structure can be confirmed in ICEM in an inside-out order based on the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure. Specifically, in this invention, parts of all faces of each individual (body) are created in ICEM in an inside-out order according to the multi-body complex structure model, and distinguished by different names, thus confirming the surfaces of multiple individuals within the multi-body complex structure.

[0025] After confirming the surfaces of multiple individuals in the complex multi-body structure, each individual can be created in an inward-outward sequence. For any individual model, if no individual model is in contact with the spatial body model or other remaining individual models, it can be displayed separately, all surfaces can be selected, and the individual can be created by using the surfaces to enclose the individual. When any individual model is in contact with the spatial body model or other remaining individual models, the individual is created using a two-point method. For the spatial body model, the spatial body is created using a two-point method.

[0026] Specifically, in this invention, when any individual model comes into contact with a spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, creating an individual using a two-point method specifically includes: when any individual model comes into contact with a spatial volume model, selecting one point on the surface of any individual model and selecting one point on the contact surface between any individual model and the spatial volume model, creating the individual using a two-point method; the two points cannot be on the same surface. When any individual model comes into contact with other individual models, selecting one point on the surface of any individual model and selecting one point on the contact surface between any individual model and other individual models, creating the individual using a two-point method; the two points cannot be on the same surface. For spatial volume models, creating a spatial volume using a two-point method specifically includes: selecting one point on the surface of the spatial volume model and selecting one point on the surface of an individual model that does not come into contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, creating the spatial volume using a two-point method; the two points cannot be on the same surface.

[0027] Furthermore, after creating each individual entity, they can be displayed sequentially from the inside out. A mesh corresponding to each entity is generated as it is displayed, and the generated meshes are verified. If any individual's mesh is outside the expected area, the individual is recreated until its mesh falls within the expected area, thus completing the mesh generation for the complex multi-body structure model. This method, by sequentially displaying and meshing each entity, allows for timely adjustments when any individual's mesh exceeds the expected area, improving the accuracy of mesh generation.

[0028] As a specific embodiment of the present invention, each generated individual body is inspected. Using the display function and mesh generation options in ICEM, the mesh corresponding to the display body is selected, and meshes are generated sequentially from the inside out. The mesh generated for each individual body is checked to ensure it falls within the expected area. For parts where mesh generation is incorrect or not generated within the specified body area, the points selected during individual body creation are adjusted, and the process of generating individual bodies is checked for problems. The mesh is then re-generated until all individual body meshes fall within the expected area. After mesh generation, the mesh quality can be adjusted and output using ICEM's built-in "SMOOTH MESH" function, and then imported into simulation software for simulation calculations.

[0029] In this invention, when the mesh generated by any individual is not within the expected area, recreating any individual specifically includes: when the mesh generated by any individual is not within the expected area, reselecting at least one of the points on the surface of the individual model, the points on the contact surface between the individual model and other individual models, and the points on the contact surface between the individual model and the space volume model, and constructing the individual based on the two reselected points in a two-point manner.

[0030] To gain a further understanding of the present invention, the following description is provided in conjunction with... Figures 1 to 7 The present invention provides a detailed description of the ICEM-based mesh generation method for multibody complex structure models.

[0031] In existing technologies, when using ICEM for mesh generation, it was found that when meshing a model containing multiple volumes with complex shapes within a certain space, using two points to construct the body before meshing results in difficulties because the model is complex and has many curved surfaces. This makes it hard for the system to accurately identify the spatial region where the two points are located, leading to mesh generation results that do not meet expectations and often even produce errors. Figures 1 to 7 As shown in the figure, a mesh generation method for multi-body complex structure models based on ICEM is provided according to a specific embodiment of the present invention. The method specifically includes the following steps.

[0032] Step one: Establish a 3D model of the multi-body complex structure. This 3D model includes a spatial volume model and multiple individual model models, with the individual model models positioned within the spatial volume model. In this embodiment, as shown... Figure 1 As shown, there are four individual models within the external space. Individual 1 is in contact with the ground and side walls of the space. Individual 2 is independent in the space and is not in contact with other individuals or the space. Individuals 3 and 4 are independent in the space, but are in contact with each other.

[0033] Step two involves importing the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure into ICEM (The Integrated Computer Engineering and Manufacturing) to determine if its topology is correct. If the topology is incorrect, it is repaired until it is correct. In this embodiment, the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure created in step one is imported into ICEM for topology checking. No open faces were found, indicating a correct topology.

[0034] Step 3: Based on the 3D model of the multi-body complex structure, confirm the surfaces of the multiple individuals of the multi-body complex structure in ICEM in an inside-out order. In this embodiment, the surfaces of the spatial body and the four individual models located inside the spatial body are named respectively: the left side is the entrance (HOUSE_IN) of the spatial body, and the right side is the exit (HOUSE_OUT) of the spatial body. The surfaces of the four individual models from left to right are BODY1, BODY2, BODY3, and BODY4.

[0035] Step four: Create each individual model in an inside-out order. For any individual model, if it is not in contact with the space volume model or other remaining individual models, create the individual using a surface-enclosed method. If any individual model is in contact with the space volume model or other remaining individual models, create the individual using a two-point method. For the space volume model, create the space volume using a two-point method. In this embodiment, for the completely opposing individual BODY2, generate body1 by selecting all faces and enclosing the body. For the individual model BODY1, select one point on the surface of BODY1 and one point on the side wall or ground of the space volume BODY that is in contact with BODY1, and generate body1 using a two-point method. For the individual model BODY3, select one point on the surface of the individual model BODY3 and one point on the surface of BODY3 that is in contact with BODY4, and generate body3 using a two-point method. For the individual model BODY4, select a point on the surface of the individual model BODY4 and select a point on the surface of BODY4 that contacts BODY3, and generate body4 using the two-point method; for the entire computational domain space volume BODY, select a point on the entire computational domain space volume BODY and select a point on the surface of BODY2, and generate body using the two-point method; thus, the space volume BODY is completed, and the construction of the other four individuals from left to right is BODY1, BODY2, BODY3 and BODY4.

[0036] Step five: Display each individual entity sequentially from the inside out, generating a corresponding mesh for each entity as it is displayed. Verify the meshes generated for each entity. If the mesh for any entity is not within the expected area, recreate that entity until its mesh is within the expected area, thus completing the mesh generation for the multi-body complex structure model. In this embodiment, as... Figures 5 to 7 As shown, starting with fewer parts and gradually increasing, the "Generate Display Components Only" function is used to generate meshes for each body sequentially, checking if the body is correctly created. If the mesh of body1 is not within the expected area, return to step four, reselect the points on the surface of body1 or the points on the contact surface between body1 and the spatial model, adjust and reconstruct individual body1, then mesh and verify individual body1, repeating the above process until the mesh of body1 is within the expected area.

[0037] Finally, check the mesh quality and output it to the simulation software to check its usability. During the mesh output process, you can set the computational domain of each body to correspond to a solid domain or a fluid domain. Then, in the simulation software, you can assign certain material properties to different bodies to facilitate simulation calculations.

[0038] In summary, this invention provides a meshing method based on ICEM for complex multi-body structural models. This method constructs individual bodies using different approaches depending on the contact conditions of each individual model. For individual models not in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, they are created by enclosing surfaces. For individual models in contact with the spatial volume model or other remaining individual models, and the spatial volume model itself, a two-point approach is used to create individuals. This method accurately identifies the minimum envelope space of each individual, resulting in high meshing accuracy. Furthermore, the individual surface verification, individual creation, and mesh generation are all performed in an inside-out order. This approach more accurately identifies the region where each individual is located, reduces errors during meshing, and improves work efficiency. Therefore, compared with existing technologies, the ICEM-based meshing method for complex multi-body structural models provided by this invention can more quickly mesh complex multi-body physical models within a certain space, reducing errors during meshing and improving work efficiency.

[0039] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention; the directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0040] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0041] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0042] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A mesh generation method based on ICEM for multi-body complex structure models, characterized in that, The mesh generation method includes: A three-dimensional model of a multi-body complex structure is established, wherein the three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure includes a spatial volume model and multiple individual models, and the multiple individual models are set within the spatial volume model; The three-dimensional model of the complex multi-body structure is imported into ICEM. The topology of the three-dimensional model is then determined to be correct. If the topology of the three-dimensional model is incorrect, it is repaired until the topology of the three-dimensional model is correct. Based on the three-dimensional model of the multi-body complex structure, the surfaces of multiple individuals of the multi-body complex structure are identified in ICEM in an inside-out order; Individual models are created in an inward-outward sequence. For any individual model, if no individual model is in contact with the space model or any other remaining individual models, the individual is created by using a surface-enclosed method. If any individual model is in contact with the space model or any other remaining individual models, the individual is created using a two-point method. For the space model, the space is created using a two-point method. The individual entities are displayed sequentially from the inside out, and a mesh corresponding to each entity is generated when any entity is displayed. The meshes generated for each entity are verified. If the mesh generated for any entity is not within the expected area, the entity is recreated until the mesh of any entity is within the expected area, thus completing the mesh generation of the multi-body complex structure model. When any entity model is in contact with the spatial body model or other remaining entity models, the entity is created using a two-point method, specifically: when any entity model is in contact with the spatial body model, a point is selected on the surface of the entity and a point is selected on the contact surface between the entity model and the spatial body model, creating the entity using a two-point method; when any entity model is in contact with other entity models, a point is selected on the surface of the entity and a point is selected on the contact surface between the entity model and other entity models, creating the entity using a two-point method. The characteristic is that, for the spatial body model, the two-point method for creating the spatial body specifically includes: selecting a point on the surface of the spatial body model and a point on the surface of an entity model that is not in contact with the spatial body model or other remaining entity models, creating the spatial body using a two-point method.

2. The mesh generation method for multi-body complex structure models based on ICEM according to claim 1, characterized in that, Determining whether the topology of the 3D model is correct specifically includes: determining whether each surface of the 3D model is closed; when the 3D model displays a set first color, the topology of the 3D model is considered correct; when the 3D model displays a set second color, the topology of the 3D model is considered incorrect.

3. The mesh generation method for multi-body complex structure models based on ICEM according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the mesh generated by any of the individuals is not within the expected area, recreating any of the individuals specifically includes: when the mesh generated by any of the individuals is not within the expected area, reselecting at least one of the points on the surface of the individual model, the points on the contact surface between the individual model and other individual models, and the points on the contact surface between the individual model and the space volume model, and constructing the individual based on the two reselected points in a two-point manner.

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