Simulation of Realistic Particles with Bullet Physics Engine

The traditional discrete element method (DEM) uses clumps to approximate realistic particles, which is computationally demanding when simulating many particles. In this paper, the Bullet physics engine is applied as an alternative to simulate realistic particles. Bullet was originally developed for computer games to simulate physical and mechanical processes that occur in the real world to produce realistic game experiences. Physics engines integrate a variety of techniques to simulate complex physical processes in games, such as rigid bodies (e.g., rocks, and soil particles), soft bodies (e.g., clothes), and their interactions. Therefore, physics engines have the capabilities to simulate realistic particles. This paper integrates three-dimensional laser scanner and Bullet to form a realistic particle simulation framework. The soil specimen collapse process is simulated to demonstrate the capability of the proposed framework to simulate realistic particles.