Computational modelling of industrial rpoblems involving continuum/discrete transition and evolving geometries

摘要

This paper discusses current issues involved in the numerical simulation of large scale industrial problems where multi-fracturing, continuum/discrete transition and the need for appropriate computational treatment of evolving geometries are of particular relevance. Attention is given to the fracturing criteria that define the continuum-discrete transition. In particular a non-local smeared crack model, suitable for modelling the fracturing behaviour of quasi-brittle materials, is discussed in detail. On the computational side, the important issues of error estimation/mesh adaptivity are discussed and particular atention is focused on surface remeshing. Applications of these concepts within a finite/discrete element environment is discussed throughout the paper. Their practical application is illustrated by the numerical solution of a representative set of industrially relevant problems.