Symmetry techniques for the numerical solution of the 2D Euler equations at impermeable boundaries

The implementation of boundary conditions at rigid, fixed wall boundaries in inviscid Euler solutions by upwind, finite volume methods is considered. Some current methods are reviewed. Two new boundary condition procedures, denoted as the symmetry technique and the curvature-corrected symmetry technique are then presented. Their behaviour in relation to the problem of the subsonic flow about blunt and slender elliptic bodies is analysed. The subsonic flow inside the Stanitz elbow is then computed. The symmetry technique is proven to be as accurate as one of the current methods, second-order pressure extrapolation technique. Finally, for arbitrary curved geometries, dramatic advantages of the curvature-corrected symmetry technique over the other methods are shown. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.