Numerical analysis of hydroelasticity problems by coupling WCSPH with multibody dynamics

Abstract

This paper aims to extend the implementation of DualSPHysics-Project Chrono coupling to hydroelasticity problems involving free-surface flows and deformable elastic boundaries. In the present model, the fluid sub-domain of the phenomenon is based on the WCSPH model of DualSPHysics. The solid sub-domain, simulated by the Project Chrono engine, is modeled using the set of rigid bodies attached by hinges with torsional and damping stiffness. An analytical solution of Euler-Bernoulli beam theory is employed to adapt the rigid-multibody system to the mechanical characteristics of the elastic sub-domain via the torsional stiffness values of hinges. The stability and accuracy of the present model are tested by three cases with different flow characteristics and mechanical properties for solid sub-domain, involving a newly-designed experimental setup and two benchmark cases in the literature. Obtained results show reasonable accuracy with experimental measurements and other numerical model computations.