Development of a standardized DSMC-preCICE coupling framework for flow-structure interactions in rarefied conditions

Simulating flow-structure interactions (FSI) in rarefied gas conditions is crucial for aerospace and microsystem applications. However, progress in this area has been hindered by a lack of standardized and reusable computational tools. This paper presents a standardized, non-intrusive coupling framework that integrates the open-source Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) solver SPARTA with arbitrary Finite Element Method (FEM) solvers using the preCICE library. The accuracy, robustness, and solver independence of the framework are validated through comprehensive numerical experiments. Illustrative simulations of a two-dimensional perpendicular flap showcase the ability to capture key interactive physical phenomena, including the dynamic motion of shock waves caused by aeroelastic deformations. These simulations quantitatively demonstrate the significant effects of flight altitudes and material properties on structural response amplitudes and vibrational frequencies. Additionally, a three-dimensional simulation highlights the potential to manage complex scenarios. By significantly lowering the implementation barriers for high-fidelity rarefied FSI simulations, this work allows researchers to concentrate on physical and engineering analyses, thus paving the way for advanced studies in spacecraft design and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) operating under extreme flow conditions.