Page 294 - The Combined Finite-Discrete Element Method

9

Computational Aspects of

Combined Finite-Discrete

Element Simulations

Combined finite-discrete element simulations comprising a few hundred to a few thousand
discrete elements are classified as small scale combined finite-discrete element simula-
tions. Small scale combined finite-discrete element simulations usually require minimum
hardware resources in terms of CPU and RAM space, and can be accomplished on almost
any machine. In this light, no special software requirements are necessary, and the simplest
software configurations can do the job.
Combined finite-discrete element simulations comprising tens of thousands of discrete
elements are classified as medium scale combined finite-discrete element simulations.
Medium-scale combined finite-discrete element simulations require all the sophisticated
algorithmic details, such as efficient contact detection procedures, as detailed in the rest of
this book. Neither special hardware requirements nor special software designs are neces-
sary. Medium scale simulations easily fit well within the constraints of modern day hard-
ware in terms of both CPU and RAM requirements, and run times are usually very short.

9.1 LARGE SCALE COMBINED FINITE-DISCRETE
ELEMENT SIMULATIONS

Combined finite-discrete element simulations comprising hundreds of thousands or a few
millions of discrete elements are classified as large scale combined finite-discrete element
simulations. RAM requirements for such simulations are measured in gigabytes. Run
times are measured in hours, days or even weeks. Present day desktop workstations can
easily handle jobs of this type. However, special care must be taken to:
• Minimise RAM requirements.
• Minimise CPU requirements.
• Minimise data storage requirements.
• Minimise RISK (computer crash, power failure).
• Maximise transparency, portability and robustness.

The Combined Finite-Discrete Element Method A. Munjiza
 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd ISBN: 0-470-84199-0