Contact model and elastic deformation analysis of plate structure based on the discrete element method

摘要

In this investigation, a discrete element model of single-layer arranged particles, which is suitable for solving problems of plate structures, is proposed through the discrete element method (DEM) according to stress characteristics of thin plate structures. Additionally, mass of the particles and rotary inertia of the contact element corresponding to the discrete model are modified accordingly. Then, expressions of stiffness coefficient of the contact springs among the discrete particles of the plate are derived based on the energy equivalence principle. Afterward, the proposed discrete model is applied to solve elastic problems of plate structure, such as integrated plate and plate with an aperture under in-plane tension, cantilever plate under bending and large deformation plate subjected to transverse loads, the results of which are well consistent with results obtained through finite element method. The key of the discrete element model is interaction among the particles, which is obtained according to motion equations and contact relationships. Furthermore, the stiffness matrix and iteration are not required during the calculation process by adopting DEM. The model can automatically meet the requirements of large deformation. Therefore, it is suitable for solving highly nonlinear problems of plates with large deformation or large rotation.