Abstract:
"Numerical Simulation of Structural Deformation Under Shock and Impact Loads using a Coupled Multi-solver Approach"
This study explores the application of a coupled multi-solver approach in evaluating the structural deformation of reinforced concrete walls under shock and impact loads. Conventional numerical simulations typically use a single discretization method such as Lagrange, Euler, ALE (Arbitrary Lagrange Euler), or SPH (Smooth Particle Hydrodynamics), each of which has unique advantages and limitations. However, when dealing with complex structural responses under extreme conditions, a hybrid approach that integrates multiple solvers offers a more robust and accurate analysis.
The paper presents the methodology of coupling different numerical solvers within the AUTODYN computational framework to analyze structural damage caused by extreme loading scenarios. The research includes four real-world case studies: (a) the impact and collapse of the New York World Trade Center North Tower, (b) oblique impact on a steel-reinforced concrete slab, (c) underwater explosive loading on a submerged metal cylinder, and (d) a pipe bomb explosion inside a vehicle. These scenarios demonstrate how coupling Lagrange, Euler, ALE, and SPH techniques allows for an optimized simulation process that accurately models material behavior under high-strain rate conditions.
The results indicate that the coupled solver approach improves numerical efficiency and enhances predictive capabilities for shock and impact loading cases. The use of hybrid solvers ensures that critical factors such as mesh distortion, material flow, and failure mechanics are accurately captured. The study also highlights the importance of spatial discretization techniques in mesh analysis, where grid selection plays a crucial role in maintaining computational stability and precision. Comparisons between numerical results and experimental data validate the accuracy of the proposed approach, demonstrating its effectiveness in assessing structural damage under extreme conditions.
This work underscores the importance of integrating multiple numerical solvers to improve computational simulation accuracy for impact and blast-related structural assessments. Future developments will focus on refining solver coupling mechanisms and expanding applications to more complex real-world impact scenarios.
