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The distance potential function-based finite-discrete element method

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Abstract

The work is devoted to a coupling method for the finite element method (FEM) and the distance potential discrete element method. In this work, a well-defined distance potential function is developed. Meanwhile, a holonomic and precise algorithm for contact interaction is established, accounting for the influence of the tangential contact force. In addition, the measurement of deformation behaviors of each discrete element is handled by the FEM, where the coupling model and the conversion method of the equivalent nodal force accounting for the influence of contact forces are proposed to generate the corresponding equations of motion. Finally, the velocity verlet algorithm is applied enabling the significant simplification for the calculation of the equations of motion. The proposed approach provides an accurate contact interaction avoiding the influence of the element shape and reflect the movement procedure of multiple deformable bodies precisely. This viewpoint is proved by the classical benchmark cases.

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Acknowledgements

This work is supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (Grant 2018YFC0406705), China Postdoctoral Science Foundation Funded Project (Grant 2019M651677), the 15th Fok Ying-Tong Education Foundation for Young Teachers in the Higher Education Institutions of China (Grant 151073), the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions (Grant YS11001), the 111 Project and Qing Lan Project.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. College of Water Conservancy and Hydropower Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, Xikang Rd., 210098, People’s Republic of China

    Xunnan Liu, Jia Mao, Lanhao Zhao, Linyu Shao & Tongchun Li

  2. College of Agricultural Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, People’s Republic of China

    Tongchun Li

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  1. Xunnan Liu
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  2. Jia Mao
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  3. Lanhao Zhao
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  4. Linyu Shao
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Correspondence to Lanhao Zhao.

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Liu, X., Mao, J., Zhao, L. et al. The distance potential function-based finite-discrete element method. Comput Mech 66, 1477–1495 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00466-020-01913-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00466-020-01913-2

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