State-of-the-art SPH solver DualSPHysics: from fluid dynamics to multiphysics problems (2104.00537v1)

Abstract: DualSPHysics is a weakly compressible smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) Navier-Stokes solver initially conceived to deal with coastal engineering problems, especially those related to wave impact with coastal structures. Since the first release back in 2011, DualSPHysics has shown to be robust and accurate for simulating extreme wave events along with a continuous improvement in efficiency thanks to the exploitation of hardware such as graphics processing units (GPUs) for scientific computing or the coupling with wave propagating models such as SWASH and OceanWave3D. Numerous additional functionalities have also been included in the DualSPHysics package over the last few years which allow the simulation of fluid-driven objects. The use of the discrete element method (DEM) has allowed the solver to simulate the interaction among different bodies (sliding rocks, for example), which provides a unique tool to analyse debris flows. In addition, the recent coupling with other solvers like Project Chrono or MoorDyn has been a milestone in the development of the solver. Project Chrono allows the simulation of articulated structures with joints, hinges, sliders and springs and MoorDyn allows simulating moored structures. Both functionalities make DualSPHysics one of the meshless model world leaders in the simulation of offshore energy harvesting devices. Lately, the present state of maturity of the solver goes beyond single phase simulations, allowing multi-phase simulations with gas-liquid and a combination of Newtonian and non-Newtonian models expanding further the capabilities and range of applications for the DualSPHysics solver. These advances and functionalities make DualSPHysics a state-of-the-art meshless solver with emphasis on free-surface flow modelling.

• The paper presents DualSPHysics, an advanced open-source SPH solver that models complex free-surface flows and multiphysics interactions.
• It leverages GPU acceleration with efficient algorithms, including cell-linked neighbor lists and Fickian-based particle shifting, to boost computational performance.
• The solver is validated against experimental benchmarks, demonstrating high accuracy in coastal, offshore, and hydraulic engineering applications.

Overview of DualSPHysics SPH Solver: Capabilities and Applications

The paper "State-of-the-art SPH solver DualSPHysics: from fluid dynamics to multiphysics problems" presents a comprehensive account of the development and application of the DualSPHysics code. This open-source package utilizes the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method and showcases the solver's capability to address complex fluid dynamics and multiphysics problems through enhanced computational performance and robust functionalities. Since its inception in 2011, DualSPHysics has evolved significantly, integrating state-of-the-art advancements in hardware and software technologies to provide researchers and engineers with a versatile tool for simulating intricate flow phenomena, particularly in coastal and hydraulic engineering.

Technical Basis and Innovations

DualSPHysics is built on a weakly compressible SPH formulation optimized for exploiting the computational power of modern GPUs using CUDA. The solver facilitates simulations on both CPUs and GPUs, although GPU execution is preferred for large-scale problems due to superior processing capability. The SPH solver utilizes efficient algorithms, such as hierarchical templates and optimally designed cell-linked neighbor lists, to handle large-scale particle interactions and minimize computational overhead.

DualSPHysics offers a comprehensive range of functionalities that significantly extend the SPH method's applicability. These include the capability to simulate violent free-surface flows, multi-phase interactions, and complex boundary conditions. The solver's functionalities are bolstered by coupling with various models and simulation codes. For instance, the integration with Project Chrono facilitates simulating articulated mechanical systems, while the connection with MoorDyn enables the modeling of moored offshore structures.

Numerical Results and Applications

The paper reports extensive validation of the DualSPHysics code against experimental data, analytical benchmarks, and other simulation frameworks. For example, the solver exhibits high accuracy in simulating wave impacts on coastal structures, hydrodynamic interactions involving floating objects, and modeling multi-phase flows. A striking aspect of the software is its ability to maintain stable and accurate simulations while solving challenging problems like wave-structure interaction and moored devices, which are critical in offshore energy applications.

DualSPHysics also includes innovative particle treatment methods, such as the Fickian-based particle shifting algorithm, to maintain numerical stability and improve solution accuracy, particularly in simulations involving high density ratios and violent flow conditions. Users benefit from a comprehensive toolset for both pre- and post-processing tasks, facilitating seamless case setup and results analysis.

Implications and Future Developments

The implications of DualSPHysics extend to various engineering domains, including coastal, process, and geotechnical engineering. The solver is particularly useful for simulating complex free-surface flows and multiphase problems where traditional Eulerian methods may face challenges, providing a modular and user-friendly framework for SPH-based simulations.

In terms of future development, the emphasis will likely remain on optimizing the solver to leverage advancements in GPU architectures and addressing the SPHERIC Grand Challenges, such as improving boundary treatments and adaptive algorithms. The ongoing evolution of hardware technologies, especially towards integrated GPU platforms, poses both opportunities and challenges that the DualSPHysics framework aims to address. With Exascale computing becoming a tangible goal, DualSPHysics is positioned to contribute significantly to the scientific computing landscape.

Overall, the DualSPHysics solver encapsulates the potential of SPH techniques in tackling complex multiphysics problems effectively. The efforts to constantly improve its computational efficiency and application scope underscore the solver's importance as a tool for cutting-edge research and industrial applications.