A Surface-to-Surface Finite Element Algorithm for Large Deformation Frictional Contact in febio

Area of Science:

• Computational mechanics
• Solid mechanics
• Finite element analysis

Background:

• Modeling frictional contact in solid mechanics is crucial for simulating real-world scenarios.
• Existing methods for finite deformation and sliding contact can be computationally intensive or require complex algorithms.
• Accurate enforcement of contact constraints is essential for reliable simulation results.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel finite element algorithm for frictional contact of solid materials.
• To accommodate finite deformation and sliding within a robust computational framework.
• To provide an efficient and accurate alternative to existing contact algorithms.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a finite element algorithm using a penalty method regularized with an augmented Lagrangian scheme.
• Implementation of a non-mortar surface-to-surface approach for contact constraint enforcement.
• Utilization of a novel kinematical approach for contact detection and frictional constraint enforcement.

Main Results:

• The algorithm satisfies patch tests to a high degree of accuracy, confirming formulation integrity.
• Implementation accuracy is verified through Hertzian contact simulations.
• Demonstrated ability to handle large deformations and sliding, validated against existing literature.
• Successful application to a biomechanically relevant finger friction during grasping example.

Conclusions:

• The proposed finite element algorithm offers an accurate and efficient solution for frictional contact problems with finite deformations and sliding.
• The novel kinematical approach simplifies the treatment of complex contact scenarios.
• The open-source implementation in febio promotes accessibility and further research in computational contact mechanics.