THE APPLICATION OF DISCRETE ELEMENT METHOD IN SOLVING THREE-DIMENTIONAL IMPACT DYNAMICS PROBLEMS

A three-dimensional discrete element model of the connective type is presented. Moreover, a three- dimensional numerical analysis code, which can carry out the transitional process from connective model (for continuum) to contact model (for non-continuum), is developed for simulating the mechanical process from continuum to non-continuum. The wave propagation process in a concrete block (as continuum) made of cement grout under impact loading is numerically simulated with this code. By comparing its numerical results with those by LS-DYNA, the calculation accuracy of the model and algorithm is proved. Furthermore, the failure process of the concrete block under quasi-static loading is demonstrated, showing the basic dynamic transitional process from continuum to non-continuum. The results of calculation can be displayed by animation. The damage modes are similar to the experimental results. The two numerical examples above prove that our model and its code are powerful and efficient in simulating the dynamic failure problems accompanying the transition from continuum to non-continuum. It also shows that the discrete element method (DEM) will have broad prospects for development and application.

THE APPLICATION OF DISCRETE ELEMENT METHOD IN SOLVING THREE-DIMENTIONAL IMPACT DYNAMICS PROBLEMS

A three-dimensional discrete element model of the connective type is presented. Moreover,a three-dimensional numerical analysis code,which can carry out the transitional pro- cess from connective model(for continuum)to contact model(for non-continuum),is developed for simulating the mechanical process from continuum to non-continuum.The wave propagation process in a concrete block(as continuum)made of cement grout under impact loading is numer- ically simulated with this code.By comparing its numerical results with those by LS-DYNA,the calculation accuracy of the model and algorithm is proved.Furthermore,the failure process of the concrete block under quasi-static loading is demonstrated,showing the basic dynamic tran- sitional process from continuum to non-continuum.The results of calculation can be displayed by animation.The damage modes are similar to the experimental results.The two numerical examples above prove that our model and its code are powerful and efficient in simulating the dynamic failure problems accompanying the transition from continuum to non-continuum.It also shows that the discrete element method(DEM)will have broad prospects for development and application.