On the Tensor of Tangential Stiffness in Contact Problems

Abstract

In a nonsliding tangential contact, vectors of tangential force and tangential displacement are related by the tensor of tangential stiffness. Using the boundary element method, we calculate the principal values of the tensor of tangential stiffness for a number of contact shapes. Of special interest for applications is that the anisotropy of the tensor of tangential stiffness is generally relatively small, even for extremely anisotropic contact shapes.