A robust consistent configuration framework and formulation for 3D finite strain dynamic impact problems

As a first step towards the next generation of computational tools for contact–impact applications, a robust consistent configuration dynamic formulation for frictional contact/impact dynamic problems is described based on a newly developed decoupled point to segment gap vector projection and decoupled contact model, in conjunction with the so-called arbitrary reference configuration (ARC) formulation for finite elastic/inelastic deformation, and the forward incremental displacement central difference time integration scheme for the equation of motion. As a consequence, the resulting normal and tangential contact boundary formulations are easy to be solved, and the contact constraints are satisfied exactly. This formulation is highly robust and efficient for the numerical simulation of finite deformation elastic/inelastic frictional contact/impact dynamic applications. Numerical results with comparisons to available experimental data and those obtained from other codes are also presented, thereby demonstrating the inherent advantages.