Modeling complex boundaries using an external force field on fixed Cartesian grids in large-eddy simulations

In the present study a methodology to perform large-eddy simulations around complex boundaries on fixed Cartesian grids is presented. A novel interpolation scheme which is applicable to boundaries of arbitrary shape, does not involve special treatments, and allows the accurate imposition of the desired boundary conditions is introduced. A method to overcome the problems associated with the computation of the subgrid scale terms near solid boundaries is also discussed. A detailed study on the accuracy and efficiency of the method is carried out for the cases of Stokes flow around a cylinder in the vicinity of a moving plate, the three-dimensional flow around a circular cylinder, and fully developed turbulent flow in a plane channel with a wavy wall. It is demonstrated that the method is second-order accurate, and that the solid boundaries are mimicked "exactly" on the Cartesian grid within the overall accuracy of the scheme. For all cases under consideration the results obtained are in very good agreement with analytical and numerical data. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.