Discrete-IGA
immc | Louvain-la-Neuve
Discrete IsoGeometric Analysis
Internal reference number : 23/27-08
Start date: 17/11/2023
End date: 17/11/2027
Information on the PIs
Pr Christophe Geuzaine (spokesperson)
University of Liège ULiège
Department of Electricity, Electronics and Computer Science Centre
Pr Jean-François Remacle
Université catholique de Louvain UCLouvain
Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering IMMC
Pr Aude Simar
Université catholique de Louvain UCLouvain
Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering IMMC
Pr Davide Ruffoni
University of Liège ULiège
Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
Aims of the coordinated research project
The Discrete IsoGeometric Analysis (Discrete-IGA) project aims to revolutionize numerical simulation methodologies by overcoming the limitations of classical finite element analysis (FEA) and isogeometric analysis (IGA). Traditional approaches struggle with complex geometries, particularly when dealing with raw, imperfect, and multiscale data from engineering and biomedical applications. This project introduces a new paradigm that directly incorporates complex geometrical data, ensuring numerical models remain faithful to the inherent structure of the materials being studied.
The primary goal is to develop an innovative numerical framework that integrates computational geometry with physics-based modeling. Unlike classical isogeometric methods, which require a watertight and parameterized representation of geometry, Discrete-IGA constructs valid numerical models directly from raw geometrical data. This enables accurate simulations without requiring extensive pre-processing or manual corrections. The approach leverages advanced numerical geodesics to generate topologically valid triangulations (in 2D) and tetrahedralizations (in 3D), which preserve the multiscale features of the original data.
The project focuses on two emerging applications that present unique multiscale geometric challenges:
3D-printed self-healing lattice structures based on aluminum alloys – These advanced materials require accurate numerical models to optimize their design, manufacturing, and mechanical performance.
Trabecular bone modeling in biomedical research – Understanding the microstructural complexity of bone is critical for assessing mechanical competence and disease progression.
By addressing these challenges, Discrete-IGA will enable high-fidelity simulations of porous and hierarchical structures obtained via 3D X-ray tomography. The method will help bridge the gap between experimental characterization and computational modeling by integrating design → manufacturing → characterization → failure analysis → optimization loops.
The project is a collaborative effort between numerical and experimental research teams at UCLouvain. The numerical team, led by Prof. Jean-François Remacle and Prof. Christophe Geuzaine, will develop robust meshing and finite element methods, while the experimental team, led by Prof. Aude Simar and Prof. Davide Ruffoni, will validate these methods through material characterization and biomechanical studies.
Ultimately, the project will extend beyond linear elasticity to incorporate non-linear mechanics and solidification front modeling, providing a versatile computational framework for a wide range of engineering and biomedical applications. This breakthrough methodology will enhance predictive modeling accuracy, optimize structural design, and improve understanding of material failure mechanisms.
The research team
Jean-François Remacle
(short CV)
Research Group:
People working on the project under other sources of funding:
PhD students:
Post-docs:
Technician:
People to be funded by the project:
PhD students:
Post-docs:
Technician:
Aude Simar
(short CV)
Research Group:
People working on the project under other sources of funding:
PhD students:
Post-docs:
Technician:
People to be funded by the project:
PhD students:
Post-docs:
Technician:
Contact
Pr Jean-François Remacle, promoteur
Université catholique de Louvain UCLouvain
Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering IMMC
mail : jean-francois.remacle@uclouvain.be
Pr Aude Simar, promoteur
Université catholique de Louvain UCLouvain
Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering IMMC
mail : aude.simar@uclouvain.be
At UCLouvain, we are part of the Discrete IsoGeometric Analysis (IGA) project, an extensive inter-university collaboration between the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL) and the Université de Liège (ULG). The project targets two pioneering applications: self-healing metallic systems and biological heterogeneous microarchitectures.
At UCLouvain, our research is primarily focused on the development of self-healing metallic structures, with a particular emphasis on those produced through advanced 3D printing techniques, such as Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). The UCLouvain team is led by two prominent experts in the field. Professor Aude Simar, an expert in material science and advanced characterization techniques, is leading the material science efforts, while Professor Jean-François Remacle, a renowned specialist in meshing, is head of the numerical team.
Together, they are developing innovative finite element meshes capable of addressing the intricate geometries and multiscale nature inherent to self-healing lattice structures. At UCLouvain, we are addressing a critical challenge in computational engineering: the accurate simulation of the mechanical behavior of these complex metallic lattice structures. Utilizing real-world data from 3D X-ray tomography, we are developing meshes that reflect the intricate geometries of these materials, thereby facilitating more precise predictions of their performance.
This enables us to establish a closed-loop system between design, manufacturing, and simulation, thereby optimizing the design and performance of 3D-printed, self-healing systems. While the larger Discrete-IGA project includes biological applications at ULG, our work at UCLouvain is exclusively focused on advancing self-healing metallic systems. Through this research, our objective is to advance the boundaries of lightweight, impact-resistant, and self-healing materials, contributing to significant advancements in the field.