Itasca Consulting Canada Inc.: Software

3DEC

3DEC (3-Dimensional Distinct Element Code) is the three-dimensional extension of Itasca's two-dimensional code UDEC. It is specifically designed for simulating either the quasi-static or dynamic response to loading of rock media containing multiple, intersecting joint structures.

Main Features

• Simulation of large displacements (slip and opening) along distinct surfaces in a discontinuous medium
• Discontinuous medium treated as an assemblage of discrete polyhedra
• Discontinuities treated as boundary conditions between blocks
• Relative motion along discontinuities governed by linear and non-linear force-displacement relations for movement in both the normal and shear directions
• Explicit solution scheme, giving a stable solution to unstable physical processes
• Rigid or deformable blocks
• Library of material models for deformable blocks and for discontinuities
• "Null" blocks for excavation and nonlinear material models for backfill simulation
• Full dynamic capability, with absorbing boundaries and wave input
• Automatic, radially graded mesh generation within polyhedra (3DEC) for "infinite domain" problems
• Structural elements (including non-linear cables), with general coupling to continuum blocks or discontinuities
• Tunnel generator and statistically-based joint-set generator
• Simulates transient heat conduction and development of thermally induced stresses and displacements
• Components of stored and dissipated energy may be monitored

Options

• Thermal - The effects of heat sources embedded within a material may be modeled with the thermal option for 3DEC. Point heat sources may be placed individually, in lines, or in grids, to represent point, line, or plane sources of heating. Using this formulation yields rapid calculations, correct application of mechanical boundary conditions, incorporation of the infinite thermal boundary, and the ability to use inhomgeneous and anisotropic mechanical properties.
• Dynamic - With this option, the full dynamic response of a system may be modeled in the time domain. Capabilities added to the standard features of 3DEC include: specification of acceleration-, velocity-, or stress-wave input; quiet boundaries; free-field conditions; and damping (mass-proportional, stiffness-proportional, and Rayleigh). Geomechanical problems such as seismic loading, explosive loading, seismic release of energy, and flow of particles may be modeled using these capabilities.
• C++ Programming: User-Defined Constitutive Models - allows users to create constitutive models in C++ and compile them as DLL (dynamic link library) files that can be loaded whenever needed in a simulation. C++ DLL models run at the same speed as built-in models, and can be used by other Itasca codes (FLAC, FLAC3D). A Visual C++ Version 6.0 compiler is used to compile the DLL files. New DLL models can be obtained from the Itasca web site devoted specifically to model development and exchange: www.itasca-udm.com.