Computational Fluid Dynamics Laboratory

Lattice Boltzmann Method

The lattice Boltzmann method is a relatively new CFD technique gaining in popularity over the past decade. Its main advantages are (a) avoiding the time-consuming challenging process of grid generation particularly difficult for complex geometries, and (b) simplicity of programming and excellent parallel scaling opportunities. Below is a figure and an animation related to solving the 2D incompressible Navier-Stokes equations using the LBM technique on a 128x128 lattice demonstrating the use of the selective filtering approach of Ricot et al. (J. Comput. Phys., Vol. 228, pp. 4478-4490, 2009) and reproduces their Figure 10.


Click here to view animation of double-shear layer via lattice Boltzmann method.

Extension to 3D is underway with sample results for Taylor-Green Vortex system shown below obtained using a version of the Smagorinsky subgrid-scale turbulence model:







We are now implementing more recent BC treatments and SGS models to test accuracy for wall-bounded fully inhomogeneous turbulent flows and and free-shear layers. Extensions to scalar mixing and combustion are planned.