Linking of Lagrangian particle methods to standard finite element methods for high velocity impact computations

Abstract Lagrangian particle methods, such as smooth particle hydrodynamics, have been developed recently to include the effect of strength, and these techniques have been successfully applied to high velocity impact problems. These methods allow for variable nodal connectivity and can handle severe distortions in a manner comparable with Eulerian codes. The particle methods generally require more computer time than do standard finite element techniques, and are not accurate under some conditions. As a result, there are some advantages associated with linking the particle methods to standard finite elements. If the particle portion of the grid is restricted to those regions that are severely distorted, then the required computer time is reduced and the accuracy may be increased in the standard finite element grid. This paper describes and demonstrates techniques that include attachment, sliding and automatic generation of particles, which are linked to a standard finite element grid. Computed results show good agreement with test data.