Physics-Based Continuum Numerical Framework for Large-Scale Lunar Terramechanics Applications

Outward Technologies, in collaboration with Aperi CMC, proposes a multi-scale modeling framework to accurately simulate the complex interactions between lunar mobility systems and regolith. This innovative framework combines the high-fidelity Discrete Element Method (DEM), capturing the complex micro-mechanics of granular materials, with the computationally efficient Reproducing Kernel Particle Method (RKPM), ideal for large-scale soil deformation and vehicle dynamics simulations. Leveraging existing, validated DEM data from high-fidelity lunar regolith simulations, the framework significantly enhances RKPM accuracy while substantially reducing the prohibitive computational costs associated with traditional DEM analyses. This addresses the challenge of large-scale lunar terramechanics modeling within reasonable computational limits. Support for this project sought through NASA's SBIR program will enable the development of a robust DEM-RKPM interface, the careful selection and detailed refinement of a highly responsive material constitutive model to accurately capture lunar regolith behavior, the execution of carefully planned preliminary simulations designed to validate the core framework capabilities, and a comprehensive and detailed evaluation of its computational efficiency with a focus on optimization for Phase II. Through continued development, this methodology will NASA to optimize vehicle performance, accurately predict regolith behavior in diverse and challenging terrains, and ensure safer lunar operations. Target markets include NASA, seeking enhanced lunar exploration and mission safety, as well as the commercial sector for terrestrial terramechanics, robotics, and off-road vehicle design. Key innovation lies in the fusion of DEM and RKPM for true multi-scale simulation, with these development efforts ultimately being released as free and open-source software to foster widespread adoption.