There is a wide variety of CFD grid types including Cartesian, structured, unstructured and hybrids, as well as, numerous methodologies of combining these to reduce the time required to generate high-quality grids around complex configurations. If the grid methodologies were implemented in different codes, they should be written in such a way as to obtain the maximum performance from the available computer resources. A common interface should also be required to allow for ease of use. However, it is very time consuming to develop, maintain and add extra functionally to different codes. This paper examines the possibility of taking an existing CFD solver, the Helicopter Multi-Block (HMB) CFD method, and implementing a new grid type while reusing as much as possible the original code base. The paper presents some of the challenges encountered in extending the code which was written for a single mesh type, to a more flexible solver that is still computationally efficient but can cope with a variety of grid types.

Cet article présente une nouvelle approche de type frontale permettant de générer un maillage hybride 3D en simulation de réservoirs pétroliers. Le maillage épouse les directions des écoulements aux abords des puits et permet d'atteindre une meilleure précision dans les calculs numériques. On insère dans le maillage structuré hexaédrique du réservoir un maillage local, radial et structuré autour de chaque puits. Des maillages déstructurés polyédriques, fondés sur les diagrammes de puissance, assurent la transition entre les maillages structurés.