A numerical simulation method combining gradient damage model and finite cover method for dynamic fracture

In this study, the diffusive-discrete crack transition scheme, originally developed for quasi-static brittle fracture, is enhanced to represent dynamic fracture within the finite strain framework. The developed approach simultaneously realizes the prediction of the diffusive crack propagation problem in the context of non-local damage theory and the diffusive-discrete crack transition utilizing the advantages of the finite cover method. Accordingly, a series of dynamic fracture events involving the crack initiation, propagation, bifurcation, divisions of an original object into multiple portions, and independent motions of divided portions can be continuously simulated. After presenting the formulation of the employed non-local damage model, as well as its spatial and temporal discretizations using the finite cover method and the Newmark method are described, several representative numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the performance and capabilities of the developed approach.