Small and Finite sliding

First, let’s make a definition for small and finite sliding:

Finite sliding means any arbitrary motion of the surfaces is allowed in contact.

Small sliding implies that when two bodies are in contact and may have large motion, a relatively small sliding will occur between two surfaces; Or both absolute and relative motion of the surfaces assumes to be small.

Note that the small sliding cannot be used in the Penalty contacts algorithm and self-contact.

We use small sliding when we are sure the motion between surfaces is small. Although using this formulation will solve the problem faster, use it carefully because it may cause errors and make an infinite master surface.

There are two ways to use the small sliding, through GUI or input file (see Figures 1 and 2).

Figure 1: select small sliding through GUI

Figure 2: small sliding through input file