Livermore Software Technology Corporation

Brian Wainscott

John O Hallquist

A computer-implemented method of simulating an impact event in a finite element analysis used for assisting users to design or improve one or more structures is described. The structures are represented in a finite element analysis model that is divided or partitioned into a plurality of domains. Efficiency of the method is achieved when used in a computer system having multiple processing units and multiple contact interfaces defined and specified by users (engineers and/or scientists). Each domain is associated with or assigned to one of the processing units. A 'group-able' correlation is established or determined between domains and contact interfaces so that data communications can be conducted in most efficient manner, for example, minimizing idle processing units during data communications.

Method of simulating impact events in a multi-processor computer system

Methods and systems for creating numerically-simulated rigid bodies in finite element analysis are disclosed. At least one rigid finite element in a finite element model is designated for forming one or more numerically-simulated rigid bodies (RBs). Each numerically-simulated RB comprises an arbitrary number of rigid finite elements connecting to one another in an arbitrary shape. Each numerically-simulated RB is created by locating all of the elements embedded in the FEA model through shared node or nodes. A procedure of using element definition as a guide to set up an array of node flags, each node flag for one node such that all numerically-simulated RBs defined in the model can be located efficiently. Once all numerically-simulated RBs have been located, each unique numerically-simulated RB is defined as a unique linked-list of connected rigid finite elements.

Numerically-simulated rigid body creation mehtods and systems thereof

Improved methods and systems for defining and creating simulated rigid bodies in finite element analysis are disclosed. One or more rigid finite elements in a finite element model are designated for forming one or more simulated rigid bodies (RBs). Each simulated RB comprises an arbitrary number of rigid finite elements connecting to one another in an arbitrary shape. Each simulated RB is created by locating all of the elements embedded in the model through shared node or nodes. A procedure of using element definition as a guide to set up an array of node flags, each node flag for one node such that all RBs defined in the model can be located efficiently. Once all RBs have been located, each unique RB is defined as a unique list of connected rigid finite elements.

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San Ramon, CA, United States of America

Brian Wainscott