A new C++ workbench to develop discrete element simulations: GranOO

Discrete Model is based on the description of the physical state (velocity, position, temperature, magnetic moment, electric potential ..) of a large number of discrete elements that form the media to be studied. It is not based on a continuous description of the media. Thus, it is particularly well adapted to describe media evolution driven by discontinuous phenomena like the description of multi fracturation followed by debris flow like wear study. Recently, the use of discrete model has been widened to face problem encountered with complex rheological behavior and/or multi-physical behavior. Multi-physical problems face complex mathematical formulation because of the mixing of different families of differential equations when continuous approach is chosen. With the discrete model, each particle has a physical state and state evolution is due to local physical particle interaction: it is often much simple to write. To help and promote research in this area, a free platform GranOO has been developed under a C++ environment and is distributed under the GPL license. The main aspect of this platform is presented in this extended abstract and one application is given as example. Details can be found on url www.granoo.org.