DEVELOPMENT OF A SIMULATION OF CONCRETE FORMWORK SYSTEMS USING DISCRETE ELEMENT METHOD

The development of efficient and cost-effective concrete formwork systems is of paramount importance in the construction industry. Traditionally, the design and optimization of formwork systems have relied heavily on physical prototypes and empirical methods. However, these approaches are time-consuming, expensive, and often lack the necessary flexibility to accommodate various design parameters. In recent years, computational modelling techniques, such as the Discrete Element Method (DEM), have emerged as powerful tools for simulating the behaviour of granular materials, including concrete. This research aims to contribute to the advancement of concrete formwork system design by developing a simulation framework using the Discrete Element Method. The proposed simulation model incorporates the discrete behaviour of individual concrete particles and their interactions, enabling the analysis of complex formwork systems in a virtual environment. By simulating the behaviour of concrete during the pouring, compaction, and curing processes, the model can provide valuable insights into the structural integrity, stability, and performance of formwork systems. The simulation framework is implemented using computational tools and algorithms capable of accurately representing the physical behaviour of concrete. By considering various factors, such as particle shape, size distribution, inter-particle friction, and boundary conditions, the model can mimic the real-world behaviour of concrete formwork systems with high fidelity. The simulation outputs include measurements of stress distribution, deformation, and potential failure modes, allowing engineers and designers to optimize formwork systems and enhance their performance. The development of a simulation of concrete formwork systems using the Discrete Element Method offers numerous benefits. It enables virtual prototyping and testing of formwork designs, reducing the reliance on physical prototypes and associated costs. The ability to analyse and visualize the behaviour of concrete under different loading and environmental conditions facilitates the identification of potential design flaws and optimization opportunities. Moreover, the simulation model can aid in improving the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of formwork systems by guiding the selection of appropriate materials, construction techniques, and structural configurations. The simulation framework based on the Discrete Element Method for the analysis and optimization of concrete formwork systems. By accurately capturing the behaviour of concrete particles and their interactions, the simulation model provides valuable insights into the performance and stability of formwork systems. This approach has the potential to revolutionize the design process, leading to the development of more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable formwork systems in the construction industry.