Stochastic discrete element modelling of granular filling processes for industry application: Can we formulate a standardized approach?

摘要

Vertical discharge and filling processes of granular media have been successfully described with the aid of the discrete element method (DEM) in the past. A major challenge is often the identification of accurate interaction parameters (model calibration) such as friction and restitution coefficients. In-situ bulk calibration has been shown to be an efficient approach to generate high fidelity models. However in the case of vertical transfer and especially when working with low particle counts, randomness intrinsic to the process, can be detrimental to efficient and reliable implementation. A second constraint are shortcomings in the physical model of DEM and differences between lab scale and industrial equipment. These factors can lead to systematic errors in the calibration process and may restrict model transferability. In this study, several example media such as bite-size candy and short-length pasta, were assessed to deduce suitable calibration and quantitative validation strategies for DEM models.