Simple algorithm for adaptive refinement of three-dimensional finite element tetrahedral meshes

Abstract

A simple strategy to adaptively refine three-dimensional tetrahedral meshes has been implemented. The procedure adaptively refines a crude initial mesh using solution error indicators or other suitable measures. In this paper example problems were remeshed using a refinement ratio determined from an a posteriori error indicator obtained from the finite element solution or the problem. The resulting finite element meshes are round to have a smooth gradient in element size. Aspect ratios are calculated to determine the quality or each element, and a smoothing procedure is employed to improve the element aspect ratio. Example meshes are included to show the adaptive nature or the remesher when applied over several solution cycles