Abstract: A method for solving finite element problems in n+1 dimensions by iteratively extruding an n-dimensional finite element mesh in an n+1th dimension to form “slabs” which can be more easily solved within the entire n+1-dimensional problem. In a preferred embodiment, a three-dimensional unstructured finite element mesh representing a physical system is extruded in the time dimension. The four-dimensional prisms formed by the extrusion are divided into simplices, forming the four-dimensional finite element mesh of an individual time slab. Time slabs corresponding to a series of time intervals are sequentially generated and solved. In a preferred embodiment, only a few time slabs are stored in working memory at a time so that a reduced amount of memory (in comparison to conventional methods of solving comparable problems) is required.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes a method defining and displaying a reservoir model comprising, presenting in a graphical user interface, a series of windows walking a user through one or more steps necessary to generate a reservoir model definition and a simulation run definition. The method can also comprise presenting a set of results derived from the reservoir model definition and simulation run definition in the graphical user interface.

Abstract: A method for solving finite element problems in n+1 dimensions by iteratively extruding an n-dimensional finite element mesh in an n+1th dimension to form “slabs” which can be more easily solved within the entire n+1-dimensional problem. In a preferred embodiment, a three-dimensional unstructured finite element mesh representing a physical system is extruded in the time dimension. The four-dimensional prisms formed by the extrusion are divided into simplices, forming the four-dimensional finite element mesh of an individual time slab. Time slabs corresponding to a series of time intervals are sequentially generated and solved. In a preferred embodiment, only a few time slabs are stored in working memory at a time so that a reduced amount of memory (in comparison to conventional methods of solving comparable problems) is required.