New User Guide
The list of topics below provides a guided introduction to the information contained in this documentation. When followed in order, these topics can help new users develop an understanding of MPoint2D and MPoint3D, including their numerical formulation, modeling workflow, capabilities, and general use.
- General Approach
MPoint is numerical modeling software. This topic introduces the general practice of numerical modeling, including model idealization, interpretation of results, verification, limitations, and the role of engineering judgment.
- Solution Procedure
A general workflow for numerical problem solving is presented. Although MPoint models may vary considerably in geometry, loading, constitutive behavior, and purpose, most analyses follow a common sequence involving problem definition, model construction, initialization, loading, calculation, verification, and interpretation.
- Overview
This section introduces the principal concepts used by MPoint2D and MPoint3D, including the Lagrangian material-point description, the Eulerian background grid, particle-to-grid and grid-to-particle transfer, the updated material configuration, and the principal modeling objects used by the programs.
- Quick Start - Zone Conversion (MPoint2D) or Quick Start - Zone Conversion (MPoint3D)
These tutorials provide the fastest introduction to building and running an MPoint model. The user is guided through the definition of the computational domain, creation of the background grid, generation or import of material points, assignment of constitutive behavior, application of boundary conditions and loading, model cycling, and visualization of results.
- MPoint Modeling
This more detailed modeling section expands upon the concepts introduced in the Quick Start tutorials. Topics include material-point generation, background-grid resolution, initial conditions, constitutive models, mechanical loading, boundary conditions, damping, PIC-FLIP transfer, contact, volume control, material-point splitting.
Tip
After completing the Overview and one of the Quick Start tutorials, the new user should have a practical understanding of the basic MPoint workflow.
The remaining topics provide useful starting points for further exploration. They do not need to be followed in a strict order and may be selected according to the user’s modeling objectives.
- MPoint Examples
A collection of example and verification problems is provided to demonstrate model setup, solution procedures, numerical features, and fields of application. Users are encouraged to study examples similar to the problems they intend to model.
Additional examples are provided throughout the documentation. As experience increases, the Examples Index becomes an important resource for locating relevant modeling procedures and command usage.
- Commands and FISH Functions
MPoint2D and MPoint3D are command-driven programs. These indexes provide access to the MPoint commands and MPoint-specific FISH functions available for model creation, initialization, execution, monitoring, and post-processing.
- Index: Common Commands and Index: Common FISH
MPoint also uses commands and FISH functions that are shared with other Itasca programs. These indexes provide access to the common commands and scripting functions available throughout the modeling environment.
- FISH Scripting Reference
FISH scripting allows the modeling process to be customized and automated. Scripts may be used to generate geometry, control loading sequences, modify material properties, monitor model behavior, perform parameter studies, define custom solution logic, and automate repetitive modeling tasks.
As users become familiar with the basic command workflow, scripting provides a powerful mechanism for extending and controlling MPoint analyses.
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