An efficient localized Trefftz method for the simulation of two-dimensional sloshing behaviors

Abstract

This study proposes a new method for effectively and accurately simulating sloshing in a two-dimensional numerical tank. This technique uses the localized Trefftz method (LTM), a meshless numerical approach. Sloshing in a numerical tank is mathematically described as a space-time boundary-value problem rooted in potential flow theory. This occurrence is governed by a second-order partial differential equation and two nonlinear free-surface boundary conditions. In this study, the moving boundary problem undergoes discretization in time and space by using the LTM and the explicit Euler method, respectively. After discretization with the explicit Euler method, the elevation of the free surface is updated, and a boundary-value problem is generated at each time step. This boundary-value problem can be effectively examined using the recently developed LTM, which eliminates the need for complex meshing. Contrary to conventional methods, such as the method of fundamental solutions and the boundary element method, the LTM generates sparse matrices, allowing large-scale numerical simulations. Four numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the clarity and accuracy of the proposed meshless approach.