2D finite element mesh generation by medial axis subdivision

Abstract

An algorithm for the automatic generation of two-dimensional finite element meshes using quadrilateral elements has been demonstrated. The technique uses information derived from the medial axis of a 2D region, the locus of the centre of an inscribed disc of maximal diameter as it rolls around the region interior. Using this information, an arbitrarily complex object can be subdivided into a series of meshable subregions. Within these subregions relatively conventional meshing patterns are then generated. The resulting meshes are well structured and flow smoothly round the object boundary with minimum mesh irregularity.