Modelling two-dimensional friction contact and its application using harmonic balance method

A new approach to the modelling of two-dimensional behaviour of a point friction contact is presented which permits the computation of the non-linear dynamic response of a structure with joints constrained by friction interfaces and can be used to optimize blade dampers in turbomachinary applications. The proposed approach is an extension of the work of Menq et al. [1] and provides a mathematically simpler, yet more accurate, modelling for two-dimensional contact problems. Furthermore, the new approach is not restricted to the Coulomb friction model used in the past. The friction force at a joint can be formulated based either on a theoretical model or on measured data in the form of a friction force-displacement loading curve. A single-term harmonic balance method is used to obtain the steady state non-linear response amplitudes of a simple system with the contact point undergoing an elliptical trajectory in response to a harmonic excitation. Accuracy and computational efficiency are demonstrated by comparing the results with a time-marching solution. (C) 1996 Academic Press Limited