Managing large scale virtual environments using portals

This article describes a technique for Large Scale Virtual Environments (LSVEs) partitioning in hexagon cells and using portal in the cell interfaces to reduce the number of messages on the network and the complexity of the virtual world. These environments usually demand a high volume of data that must be sent only to those users who needs the information [Greenhalgh, Benford 1997].

Modeling of multiple cracks in reinforced concrete members using solid finite elements with high aspect ratio

This paper presents a new technique to model interfaces by means of degenerated solid finite elements, i.e., elements with a very high aspect ratio, with the smallest dimension corresponding to the thickness of the interfaces. It is shown that, as the aspect ratio increases, the element strains also increase, approaching the kinematics of the strong discontinuity. A tensile damage constitutive relation between strains and stresses is proposed to describe the nonlinear behavior of the interfaces associated with crack opening. To represent crack propagation, couples of triangular interface elements are introduced in between all regular (bulk) elements of the original mesh. With this technique the analyses can be performed integrally in the context of the continuum mechanics and complex crack patterns involving multiple cracks can be simulated without the need of tracking algorithms. Numerical tests are performed to show the applicability of the proposed technique, studding also aspects related to mesh objectivity.

High temperature, low cycle fatigue of a hybrid particulate/fiber aluminum metal-matrix composite

The effect of shot particles on the high temperature, low cycle fatigue of a hybrid fiber/particulate metal-matrix composite (MMC) was studied. Two hybrid composites with the general composition A356/35%SiC particle/5%Fiber (one without shot) were tested. It was found that shot particles acting as stress concentrators had little effect on the fatigue performance. It appears that fibers with a high silica content were more likely to debond from the matrix. Final failure of the composite was found to occur preferentially in the matrix. SiC particles fracture progressively during fatigue testing, leading to higher stress in the matrix, and final failure by matrix overload. A continuum mechanics based model was developed to predict failure in fatigue based on the tensile properties of the matrix and particles. By accounting for matrix yielding and recovery, composite creep and particle strength distribution, failure of the composite was predicted.

Multiscale constitutive modeling of polymer materials

Materials are inherently multi-scale in nature consisting of distinct characteristics at various length scales from atoms to bulk material. There are no widely accepted predictive multi-scale modeling techniques that span from atomic level to bulk relating the effects of the structure at the nanometer (10-9 meter) on macro-scale properties. Traditional engineering deals with treating matter as continuous with no internal structure. In contrast to engineers, physicists have dealt with matter in its discrete structure at small length scales to understand fundamental behavior of materials. Multiscale modeling is of great scientific and technical importance as it can aid in designing novel materials that will enable us to tailor properties specific to an application like multi-functional materials. Polymer nanocomposite materials have the potential to provide significant increases in mechanical properties relative to current polymers used for structural applications. The nanoscale reinforcements have the potential to increase the effective interface between the reinforcement and the matrix by orders of magnitude for a given reinforcement volume fraction as relative to traditional micro- or macro-scale reinforcements. To facilitate the development of polymer nanocomposite materials, constitutive relationships must be established that predict the bulk mechanical properties of the materials as a function of the molecular structure. A computational hierarchical multiscale modeling technique is developed to study the bulk-level constitutive behavior of polymeric materials as a function of its molecular chemistry. Various parameters and modeling techniques from computational chemistry to continuum mechanics are utilized for the current modeling method. The cause and effect relationship of the parameters are studied to establish an efficient modeling framework. The proposed methodology is applied to three different polymers and validated using experimental data available in literature.

Hierarchical Markov Random Fields Applied to Model Soft Tissue Deformations on Graphics Hardware

Many methodologies dealing with prediction or simulation of soft tissue deformations on medical image data require preprocessing of the data in order to produce a different shape representation that complies with standard methodologies, such as mass–spring networks, finite element method s (FEM). On the other hand, methodologies working directly on the image space normally do not take into account mechanical behavior of tissues and tend to lack physics foundations driving soft tissue deformations. This chapter presents a method to simulate soft tissue deformations based on coupled concepts from image analysis and mechanics theory. The proposed methodology is based on a robust stochastic approach that takes into account material properties retrieved directly from the image, concepts from continuum mechanics and FEM. The optimization framework is solved within a hierarchical Markov random field (HMRF) which is implemented on the graphics processor unit (GPU See Graphics processing unit ).

Deformation Studies of Tungsten-Gold Contacts at the Nanometer Scale.

The deformation behavior of atomically clean, nanometer sized tungsten / gold contacts was studied at room temperature in ultra-high vacuum. An instrument that combines atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), and field ion microscopy (FIM) into a single experimental apparatus was designed, constructed, and calibrated. A cross-hair force sensor having a spring constant of - 442 N/m was developed and its motion was monitored during indentation experiments with a differential interferometer. Tungsten tips of controlled size (12.8 nm < tip radius < 2 1.6 nm) were first shaped and characterized using FIM and then indented into a Au (1 10) single crystal to depths ranging from 1.5 nrn to 18 nm using the force sensor. Continuum mechanics models were found to be valid in predicting elastic deformation during initial contact and plastic zone depths despite our small size regime. Multiple discrete yielding events lasting < 1.5 ms were observed during the plastic deformation regime; at the yield points a maximum value for the principal shear stress was measured to be 5 + 1 GPa. During tip withdrawal, "pop-out" events relating to material relaxation within the contact were observed. Adhesion between the tip and sample led to experimental signatures that suggest neck formation prior to the break of contact. STM images of indentation holes revealed various shapes that can be attributed to the (1 1 1 ) (1 10) crystallographic slip system in gold. FIM images of the tip after indentation showed no evidence of tip damage

A method for incorporating residual stresses into patient-specific finite element simulations of arteries with an example on AAAs

Through progress in medical imaging, image analysis and finite element (FE) meshing tools it is now possible to extract patient-specific geometries from medical images of abdominal aortic aneurysms(AAAs), and thus to study clinically-relevant problems via FE simulations. Such simulations allow additional insight into human physiology in both healthy and diseased states. Medical imaging is most often performed in vivo, and hence the reconstructed model geometry in the problem of interest will represent the in vivo state, e.g., the AAA at physiological blood pressure. However, classical continuum mechanics and FE methods assume that constitutive models and the corresponding simulations begin from an unloaded, stress-free reference condition.

A derivation of thermodynamic principles

A detailed macroscopic description as in continuum mechanics, and just the concept of microstate,have been used to derive thermodynamics from mechanics. In opposition to statistical physics, the derivation lays emphasis on a definite prescription for macrostates (and non-equilibrium entropy), and uses basic features of the macrostate concept: complementary descriptions, involving either conservative and additive quantities or densities;scale-free character; reference to finite velocities and regions distant in space, thus introducing time indirectly. On the other hand, the derivation keeps the particle substratum (limit of number of particles N taken at fixed densities), and makes no ergodic-type considerations.

Aplicación de la física estadística a los medios granulares

Esta tesis se centra en el estudio de medios granulares blandos y atascados mediante la aplicación de la física estadística. Esta aproximación se sitúa entre los tradicionales enfoques macro y micromecánicos: trata de establecer cuáles son las propiedades macroscópicas esperables de un sistema granular en base a un análisis de las propiedades de las partículas y las interacciones que se producen entre ellas y a una consideración de las restricciones macroscópicas del sistema. Para ello se utiliza la teoría estadística junto con algunos principios, conceptos y definiciones de la teoría de los medios continuos (campo de tensiones y deformaciones, energía potencial elástica, etc) y algunas técnicas de homogeneización. La interacción entre las partículas es analizada mediante las aportaciones de la teoría del contacto y de las fuerzas capilares (producidas por eventuales meniscos de líquido cuando el medio está húmedo). La idea básica de la mecánica estadística es que entre todas soluciones de un problema físico (como puede ser el ensamblaje en equilibrio estático de partículas de un medio granular) existe un conjunto que es compatible con el conocimiento macroscópico que tenemos del sistema (por ejemplo, su volumen, la tensión a la que está sometido, la energía potencial elástica que almacena, etc.). Este conjunto todavía contiene un número enorme de soluciones. Pues bien, si no hay ninguna información adicional es razonable pensar que no existe ningún motivo para que alguna de estas soluciones sea más probable que las demás. Entonces parece natural asignarles a todas ellas el mismo peso estadístico y construir una función matemática compatible. Actuando de este modo se obtiene cuál es la función de distribución más probable de algunas cantidades asociadas a las soluciones, para lo cual es muy importante asegurarse de que todas ellas son igualmente accesibles por el procedimiento de ensamblaje o protocolo. Este enfoque se desarrolló en sus orígenes para el estudio de los gases ideales pero se puede extender para sistemas no térmicos como los analizados en esta tesis. En este sentido el primer intento se produjo hace poco más de veinte años y es la colectividad de volumen. Desde entonces esta ha sido empleada y mejorada por muchos investigadores en todo el mundo, mientras que han surgido otras, como la de la energía o la del fuerza-momento (tensión multiplicada por volumen). Cada colectividad describe, en definitiva, conjuntos de soluciones caracterizados por diferentes restricciones macroscópicas, pero de todos ellos resultan distribuciones estadísticas de tipo Maxwell-Boltzmann y controladas por dichas restricciones. En base a estos trabajos previos, en esta tesis se ha adaptado el enfoque clásico de la física estadística para el caso de medios granulares blandos. Se ha propuesto un marco general para estudiar estas colectividades que se basa en la comparación de todas las posibles soluciones en un espacio matemático definido por las componentes del fuerza-momento y en unas funciones de densidad de estados. Este desarrollo teórico se complementa con resultados obtenidos mediante simulación de la compresión cíclica de sistemas granulares bidimensionales. Se utilizó para ello un método de dinámica molecular, MD (o DEM). Las simulaciones consideran una interacción mecánica elástica, lineal y amortiguada a la que se ha añadido, en algunos casos, la fuerza cohesiva producida por meniscos de agua. Se realizaron cálculos en serie y en paralelo. Los resultados no solo prueban que las funciones de distribución de las componentes de fuerza-momento del sistema sometido a un protocolo específico parecen ser universales, sino que también revelan que existen muchos aspectos computacionales que pueden determinar cuáles son las soluciones accesibles. This thesis focuses on the application of statistical mechanics for the study of static and jammed packings of soft granular media. Such approach lies between micro and macromechanics: it tries to establish what the expected macroscopic properties of a granular system are, by starting from a micromechanical analysis of the features of the particles, and the interactions between them, and by considering the macroscopic constraints of the system. To do that, statistics together with some principles, concepts and definitions of continuum mechanics (e.g. stress and strain fields, elastic potential energy, etc.) as well as some homogenization techniques are used. The interaction between the particles of a granular system is examined too and theories on contact and capillary forces (when the media are wet) are revisited. The basic idea of statistical mechanics is that among the solutions of a physical problem (e.g. the static arrangement of particles in mechanical equilibrium) there is a class that is compatible with our macroscopic knowledge of the system (volume, stress, elastic potential energy,...). This class still contains an enormous number of solutions. In the absence of further information there is not any a priori reason for favoring one of these more than any other. Hence we shall naturally construct the equilibrium function by assigning equal statistical weights to all the functions compatible with our requirements. This procedure leads to the most probable statistical distribution of some quantities, but it is necessary to guarantee that all the solutions are likely accessed. This approach was originally set up for the study of ideal gases, but it can be extended to non-thermal systems too. In this connection, the first attempt for granular systems was the volume ensemble, developed about 20 years ago. Since then, this model has been followed and improved upon by many researchers around the world, while other two approaches have also been set up: energy and force-moment (i.e. stress multiplied by volume) ensembles. Each ensemble is described by different macroscopic constraints but all of them result on a Maxwell-Boltzmann statistical distribution, which is precisely controlled by the respective constraints. According to this previous work, in this thesis the classical statistical mechanics approach is introduced and adapted to the case of soft granular media. A general framework, which includes these three ensembles and uses a force-moment phase space and a density of states function, is proposed. This theoretical development is complemented by molecular dynamics (or DEM) simulations of the cyclic compression of 2D granular systems. Simulations were carried out by considering spring-dashpot mechanical interactions and attractive capillary forces in some cases. They were run on single and parallel processors. Results not only prove that the statistical distributions of the force-moment components obtained with a specific protocol seem to be universal, but also that there are many computational issues that can determine what the attained packings or solutions are.

Representing microstates of static granular matter in a stress phase space

A stress phase space is proposed to compare the static packings of a granular system (microstates) that are compatible to a macrostate described by external stresses. The equivalent stress of each particle of a static packing can be obtained from the mechanical interaction forces, and the associated volume is given by the respective Voronoi cell. Therefore, particles can be located at different stress levels and grouped into categories or configurations, which are defined in base of the geometrical features of the local arrangement (in particular, of the number of forces that keep them force-balanced). They can be represented as points in a stress phase space. The nature of this space is analyzed in detail. The integration limits of the stress variables that avoid or limit tensile states and the capability of each configuration to represent specific stress states establish its main features. Furthermore, if some stress variables are used, instead of the usual components of the Cauchy stress tensor, then some symmetries can be found. Results obtained from molecular dynamics simulations are used to check this nature. Finally, some statistical ensembles are written in terms of the coordinates of this phase space. These require some assumptions that are made in base on continuum mechanics principles.

An interactive web-based learning assistant for structural analysis of continuous beams

There are significant levels of concern about the relevance and the difficulty of learning some issues on Strength of Materials and Structural Analysis. Most students of Continuum Mechanics and Structural Analysis in Civil Engineering usually point out some key learning aspects as especially difficult for acquiring specific skills. These key concepts entail comprehension difficulties but ease access and applicability to structural analysis in more advanced subjects. Likewise, some elusive but basic structural concepts, such as flexibility, stiffness or influence lines, are paramount for developing further skills required for advanced structural design: tall buildings, arch-type structures as well as bridges. As new curricular itineraries are currently being implemented, it appears appropriate to devise a repository of interactive web-based applications for training in those basic concepts. That will hopefully train the student to understand the complexity of such concepts, to develop intuitive knowledge on actual structural response and to improve their preparation for exams. In this work, a web-based learning assistant system for influence lines on continuous beams is presented. It consists of a collection of interactive user-friendly applications accessible via Web. It is performed in both Spanish and English languages. Rather than a “black box” system, the procedure involves open interaction with the student, who can simulate and virtually envisage the structural response. Thus, the student is enabled to set the geometric, topologic and mechanic layout of a continuous beam and to change or shift the loading and the support conditions. Simultaneously, the changes in the beam response prompt on the screen, so that the effects of the several issues involved in structural analysis become apparent. The system is performed through a set of web pages which encompasses interactive exercises and problems, written in JavaScript under JQuery and DyGraphs frameworks, given that their efficiency and graphic capabilities are renowned. Students can freely boost their self-study on this subject in order to face their exams more confidently. Besides, this collection is expected to be added to the "Virtual Lab of Continuum Mechanics" of the UPM, launched in 2013 (http://serviciosgate.upm.es/laboratoriosvirtuales/laboratorios/medios-continuos-en-construcci%C3%B3n)

Comportamento tribo-mecânico e desgaste adesivo de materiais em nanoescala: análises por dinâmica molecular e mecânica do contínuo.

As formulações baseadas na mecânica do contínuo, embora precisas até certo ponto, por vezes não podem ser utilizadas, ou não são conceitualmente corretas para o entendimento de fenômenos em escalas reduzidas. Estas limitações podem aparecer no estudo dos fenômenos tribológicos em escala nanométrica, que passam a necessitar de novos métodos experimentais, teóricos e computacionais que permitam explorar estes fenômenos com a resolução necessária. Simulações atomísticas são capazes de descrever fenômenos em pequena escala, porém, o número necessário de átomos modelados e, portanto, o custo computacional - geralmente torna-se bastante elevado. Por outro lado, os métodos de simulação associados à mecânica do contínuo são mais interessantes em relação ao custo computacional, mas não são precisos na escala atômica. A combinação entre essas duas abordagens pode, então, permitir uma compreensão mais realista dos fenômenos da tribologia. Neste trabalho, discutem-se os conceitos básicos e modelos de atrito em escala atômica e apresentam-se estudos, por meio de simulação numérica, para a análise e compreensão dos mecanismos de atrito e desgaste no contato entre materiais. O problema é abordado em diferentes escalas, e propõe-se uma abordagem conjunta entre a Mecânica do Contínuo e a Dinâmica Molecular. Para tanto, foram executadas simulações numéricas, com complexidade crescente, do contato entre superfícies, partindo-se de um primeiro modelo que simula o efeito de defeitos cristalinos no fenômeno de escorregamento puro, considerando a Dinâmica Molecular. Posteriormente, inseriu-se, nos modelos da mecânica do contínuo, considerações sobre o fenômeno de adesão. A validação dos resultados é feita pela comparação entre as duas abordagens e com a literatura.

Partial collapse of a ventilated stone façade: Diagnosis and analysis of the anchorage system

The mechanical behaviour of transventilated façades performed by natural stone is necessarily based on the correct execution of both anchoring elements on the stone cladding as in the ones corresponding to the enclosure support, either with brick masonry walls or reinforced concrete walls. In the case studied in the present work, the origin of the damages suffered on the façade of a building located in Alcoy has been analyzed, where the detachment of part of the outer enclosure occurred. This enclosure is a transventilated façade formed by Bateig Blue stone tiles. To this end, “in situ” tests of the anchoring systems employed have been performed, as well as laboratory tests of mechanical characterization of the material and of different types of anchor, comparing these results with those obtained in both the simplified analytical models of continuum mechanics as developed by the Finite Element Method (FEM).

Tensile properties of as fabricated, aged, and stretched SiC whisker and particle reinforced 2009 aluminium alloy

Tensile tests were carried out using specimens of 2009 aluminium alloy reinforced by either SiC whiskers or particles. The size distributions of the whiskers and particles in the matrix were obtained by image analysis. It was found that failure was a result of uniform void nucleation and coalescence in the as fabricated composites, or a result of fast crack propagation initiated by a flaw developed at clusters of SiC in the aged or stretched and aged composites. The strengths of the as fabricated composites were estimated based on the results of image analysis using continuum mechanics and dislocation theories. The estimation indicated that the tensile strengths are largely contributed to by composite strengthening, supplemented by residual dislocation strengthening and work hardening. Owing to the flaw controlled failure, the tensile strengths of the aged or stretched and aged composites were independent of aging time, aging temperature, and the amount of stretching. The elastic moduli of the composites were estimated using the Halpin-Tsai model and a good correlation was found between the measured and estimated moduli. © 1996 The Institute of Materials.

Development of a transient gradient enhanced non local continuum damage mechanics model for masonry

Due to the advent of varied types of masonry systems a comprehensive failure mechanism of masonry essential for the understanding of its behaviour is impossible to be determined from experimental testing. As masonry is predominantly used in wall structures a biaxial stress state dominates its failure mechanism. Biaxial testing will therefore be necessary for each type of masonry, which is expensive and time consuming. A computational method would be advantageous; however masonry is complex to model which requires advanced computational modelling methods. This thesis has formulated a damage mechanics inspired modelling method and has shown that the method effectively determines the failure mechanisms and deformation characteristics of masonry under biaxial states of loading.