A Novel Implementation of the LDEM in the Ansys LS-DYNA Finite Element Code

In this paper, a novel implementation of the Lattice Discrete Element Method (LDEM) is proposed: in particular, the LDEM is implemented in the Ansys LS-DYNA finite element code. Such an implementation is employed to evaluate the fracture behaviour of sandwich panels under bending. First, the novel hybrid model proposed is validated by simulating some three-point bending experimental tests carried out at the University of Parma, and then it is used to model the fracture behaviour of sandwich panels under four-point bending. Failure mechanisms, damage locations, and load-deflection curves are numerically determined by employing such a novel model, and the results show a good agreement with the available experimental findings.