Method and apparatus for discrete element modeling with a virtual geometry object

摘要

A method is described for discrete element modelling and for performing a three-dimensional simulation through time of a plurality of discrete elements corresponding to particles and physical geometry elements. The method can comprise the following operations: providing a virtual geometry object comprising a user-defined shape (the virtual geometry object does not undergo physical interaction with the particles or physical geometry elements during the simulation); receiving user-defined parameters for determining the position, orientation and any movement of the virtual geometry object with respect to the three-dimensional space; locating the virtual geometry object in the three-dimensional space during the simulation in accordance with the user-defined parameters; and/or identifying the particles, physical geometry elements and/or physical interactions having a particular relationship with respect to the virtual geometry object. The identified elements can then be analyzed by the user.