Smoothed-Particle Hydrodynamics

(SPH) is a computational method used for simulating the mechanics of fluid flows, solid mechanics, and other particle-based phenomena. It is a mesh-free, Lagrangian approach, meaning that it tracks individual particles (fluid or solid) over time, rather than using a fixed grid as in traditional methods like finite element or finite difference methods. SPH has become popular for modeling complex systems, especially those involving free surfaces, deformable boundaries, and highly dynamic interactions, such as in fluid flow, astrophysics, and granular material handling.

This dataset and calculations are for educational purposes only using Discrete Element Analysis (SPH-DEM).

OVERVIEW

In this problem, we simulate a fluid surge caused by opening a gate within a specified geometry to observe its effects on a nearby structure. We aim to investigate the forces exerted by the surge on the structure, as well as the reflected surge wave resulting from the boundary wall. In this case, we lift the sluice gate to release water from a dam for 0.4 seconds and then close it abruptly. This simulation also captures the fluid surge reflected from the closed gate, allowing us to analyze the force transmitted to the structure.

opening the gate

In this context, SPH can model fluid dynamics, including wave impact, surge behavior, and the resulting forces exerted on the building structure. This method is especially relevant for coastal engineering, disaster prevention, and structural resilience studies against fluid forces such as tsunami waves, storm surges, and flash floods.

In Smoothed-Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH), the Eulerian approach contrasts with the method's traditional Lagrangian nature. Typically, SPH is a Lagrangian method, where individual particles move with the fluid flow, representing material properties at each particle’s position. In an Eulerian SPH solution, the analysis instead focuses on fixed spatial locations (or a fixed grid) rather than following each particle's movement through space. In the modeling below, the grids are turned-off to see the actual wave or surge impact. Note that the sluice gate was closed just after 0.4 seconds.

For the animation, this can be viewed on this link https://youtu.be/hZvq4iQqA9M

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Effect of the first surge to structural component and highest nodal force experienced by the structure. The second occurrences are the reflected waves.

The reflected surge wave effect after bouncing off from the boundary wall striking the structure in the -X direction.

For the complete animation with eulerian solution, this can be viewed in this link https://youtu.be/g9d-vh7vork

Further Work:

2-Way Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI): Implement a 2-way Fluid-Structure Interaction model to capture the wave impact velocity and transfer it to the structural components for a more detailed finite element analysis. This approach will allow for a more accurate simulation of the interaction between the fluid surge and the structure, enabling the study of stress, strain, and potential deformation under wave impact forces. By modeling the structural response to wave-induced forces dynamically, this analysis can provide insights into structural resilience and potential failure points.
Alternative Gate Release Mechanism: Instead of lifting the sluice gate upward to release the fluid, experiment with lowering it. This downward release mechanism would simulate conditions similar to those of an ocean tidal wave impacting coastal infrastructure. This approach will help to model and analyze how tidal wave forces affect infrastructure such as sea walls, piers, and coastal buildings, providing a more realistic representation of wave dynamics and structural impacts in marine environments. Preview: https://youtu.be/dCOReX3N3uM

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