Finite Element Analysis of Nonsmooth Contact
Kane, C., E. A. Repetto, M. Ortiz, J. E. Marsden
Computer Meth. in Appl. Mech. and Eng., 180, 1-26.
Abstract:
This work develops robust contact algorithms capable of dealing with
complex contact situations involving several bodies with corners. Amongst
the mathematical tools we bring to bear on the problem is nonsmooth
analysis, following Clarke. We specifically address contact
geometries for which both the use of normals and gap functions have
difficulties and therefore precludes the application of most contact
algorithms proposed to date. Such situations arise in applications such as
fragmentation, where angular fragments undergo complex collision sequences
before they scatter. We demonstrate the robustness and versatility of the
nonsmooth contact algorithms developed in this paper with the aid of
selected two and three-dimensional applications.