MR linear contact detection algorithm

Abstract

Abstract Large‐scale discrete element simulations, as well as a whole range of related problems, involve contact of a large number of separate bodies and an efficient and robust contact detection algorithm is necessary. There has been a number of contact detection algorithms with total detection time proportional to N ln( N ) (where N is the total number of separate bodies) reported in the past. In more recent years algorithms with total CPU time proportional to N have been developed. In this work, a novel contact detection algorithm with total detection time proportional to N is proposed. The performance of the algorithm is not influenced by packing density, while memory requirements are insignificant. The algorithm is applicable to systems comprising bodies of a similar size. The algorithm is named MR (Munjiza–Rougier: Munjiza devised the algorithm, Rougier implemented it). In the second part of the paper the algorithm is extended to particles of different sizes. The new algorithm is called MMR (multi‐step MR) algorithm. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.