hi,I am trying to use the level-set method to deal with a moving boundary problem. but It's the first time for me to use level-set method ,so I was confused at the first step.The interface in my problem is an arbitrary irregular curve, so how to give the sign distance funtion at the initial time in the whole field,or how to compute the distance from a point to an arbitray curve? I feel it is not an easy task while I can't find any discription on it in the papers I have reviewed. Maybe my problem is not a problem just because I am not familiar with the level-set method. So I appreciate any suggestion and help. Thanks a lot!!

try to find some important papers, J.A. Sethian, M. Sussman etc. check this out: people.tamu.edu/~yukai/

thank u for ur response,Mr Yu! I have visited your homepage and found many useful links. Also I found many fascinating results in ur research. Because I am still a beginner in Level set methods, I wonder if I can send mail to u for some suggestions.

no problem

[hydrol88]

Hi!!! I also have the same problems. I am trying to use the level-set method now. I am confused at the first step for the signed distance function.The interface in my problem is an arbitrary irregular curve, Could you let me know how to give the sign distance funtion at the initial time in the whole field,or how to compute the distance from a point to an arbitray curve? Thanks.. Help me..

[valgrinda]

For the initialization of the level set function, try this:
1) Give all cells with Phase 1 the level set value +1
2) Give all cells with Phase 2 the level set value -1
3) Reinitialize (see Sussman,1994 and Peng,1999)
Result: Level Set Function is a Signed Distance Function with the Eikonal Equation fulfilled, the zero level set gives the interface between Phase 1 and Phase 2.