Interface modeling - friction and wear

Abstract: The general trend toward increased use of computer models and simulations during product development calls for accurate and reliable product models. The function of many products relies on contact interfaces between interacting components. Simulating the behavior of such products requires accurate models of both components and interfaces. Depending on the purpose of the simulation, interface models of different degrees of detail are needed. In simulating very large systems with many interfaces, it might be computationally expensive to integrate detailed models of each individual interface. Condensed models, or abstractions, that describe the interface properties with the fewest degrees of freedom are therefore required. This thesis deals with the modeling and simulation of mechanical interfaces in a systems context. The five appended papers discuss the issue from both the simulation and tribological points of view. The aim is to study how friction and wear can be modeled in the behavioral simulation of technical systems and to discuss the convenience and applicability of using different types of models as building blocks of a system model in simulations. Paper A reviews existing friction models of sliding contacts under different running conditions. Paper B uses a simplified contact model, the elastic foundation model, to model friction in a boundary-lubricated rolling and sliding contact. The model is integrated into a dynamic rigid body model of a mechanical system, and the system behavior is simulated. Paper C discusses the application of the elastic foundation model to rough surface contact problems and investigates how the error in its results depends on surface roughness. Papers D and E address how the wear of the contact surfaces at the pad-to-rotor interface in a passenger car disc brake can be simulated using finite element analysis (FEA).