A new computational framework for multi‐scale ocean modelling based on adapting unstructured meshes

TLDR

Ocean models are typically based on static structured grids, but finite element and volume methods on unstructured meshes are gaining popularity. The study presents a new modelling framework for 3D multi‑scale oceanographic problems. The framework uses a finite element discretization on an unstructured tetrahedral mesh that is dynamically adapted in 3D using anisotropic complexity measures and load‑balanced parallel optimization to align resolution with evolving solution structures such as boundary layers. The model uniquely combines unstructured meshes, 3D anisotropic adaptivity, and non‑hydrostatic dynamics to represent coupled multi‑scale oceanic structures. © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

Abstract A new modelling framework is presented for application to a range of three‐dimensional (3D) multi‐scale oceanographic problems. The approach is based upon a finite element discretization on an unstructured tetrahedral mesh which is optimized to represent highly complex geometries. Throughout a simulation the mesh is dynamically adapted in 3D to optimize the representation of evolving solution structures. The adaptive algorithm makes use of anisotropic measures of solution complexity and a load‐balanced parallel mesh optimization algorithm to vary resolution and allow long, thin elements to align with features such as boundary layers. The modelling framework presented is quite different from the majority of ocean models in use today, which are typically based on static‐structured grids. Finite element (and volume) methods on unstructured meshes are, however, gaining popularity in the oceanographic community. The model presented here is novel in its use of unstructured meshes and anisotropic adaptivity in 3D, its ability to represent a range of coupled multi‐scale solution structures and to simulate non‐hydrostatic dynamics. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.