Simulation of Nonlinear Behavior of Beam Structures Based on Discrete Element Method

Abstract

In this paper, the discrete element method (DEM) is improved to simulate the strong nonlinear mechanics behavior of beam structures. First, the spring stiffness of parallel bond model applied to beam structure is deduced using the principle of energy conservation, and the relationship between spring stiffness and elastic constants is established. Second, the layered beam theory is introduced into the traditional DEM. The yield criteria and the spring stiffness of contact in yield state are deduced, so that the improved DEM can be used to solve the plastic problem of beam structures. Third, the fracture criterion based on the limit strain of material is defined, so that the fracture problem of steel beams can be solved by DEM. Fourth, the force–displacement equations of Hertz model is deduced. Finally, the numerical examples show that the improved DEM can effectively solve the problems of large deformation, plasticity, fracture, contact and collision of beam structures.