How do you model and simulate the behavior and interactions of soft materials and structures?

2 How to model soft materials

Modeling soft materials involves describing their physical properties and behavior using mathematical equations and parameters. Depending on the complexity and scale of the problem, different types of models can be used, such as continuum models, discrete models, or hybrid models. Continuum models assume that the material is a homogeneous and continuous medium that can be characterized by parameters such as density, elasticity, viscosity, and stress. Discrete models treat the material as a collection of particles, springs, or elements that interact with each other through forces and potentials. Hybrid models combine aspects of both continuum and discrete models to capture the multiscale and multiphysical nature of soft materials.

3 How to simulate soft materials

Simulating soft materials involves solving the models using numerical methods and algorithms that can approximate the solution in a finite time and space. Depending on the type of model and the desired accuracy and efficiency, different methods can be used, such as finite element methods, finite difference methods, lattice Boltzmann methods, or molecular dynamics methods. Simulating soft materials requires a balance between computational cost and realism, as well as a careful choice of boundary conditions, initial conditions, and parameters that reflect the experimental data and observations.

4 What tools to use for soft materials

When modeling and simulating soft materials, there are many tools and software available depending on the level of expertise and the purpose of the analysis. Abaqus is a commercial software that offers comprehensive features and modules for nonlinear, dynamic, and multiphysics problems. COMSOL Multiphysics is another commercial software that supports a wide range of physics and applications, such as structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and electromagnetics. LAMMPS is an open-source software used for molecular dynamics simulations of large systems of atoms, molecules, or polymers. Finally, SOFA is an open-source software that provides a framework for modeling and simulating deformable objects and soft tissues for interactive applications such as virtual reality, haptics, or medical simulation.

5 How to validate and verify soft materials

Validating and verifying soft materials models and simulations are crucial steps in ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the results and the conclusions. Validation involves comparing the simulation results with experimental data or real-world observations to check if the model captures the essential features and behavior of the system. Verification involves checking if the simulation is performed correctly and consistently, without errors or bugs in the code, the input, or the output. Validation and verification require a systematic and rigorous approach that involves defining the objectives, criteria, and methods of comparison, as well as documenting and reporting the findings and the uncertainties.