State-of-the-art SPH solver DualSPHysics: from fluid dynamics to multiphysics problems

TL;DR

DualSPHysics is a versatile, state-of-the-art meshless solver that has evolved from coastal wave impact simulations to complex multiphysics problems, including multi-phase flows and interactions with structures, leveraging GPU acceleration and coupling with other models.

Contribution

The paper details the development of DualSPHysics into a multiphysics, multi-phase solver with advanced functionalities like DEM, coupling with structural and wave models, and GPU acceleration, expanding its application scope.

Findings

Robust and accurate for extreme wave simulations

Supports multi-phase and multi-structure interactions

Integrates GPU acceleration for improved efficiency

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.