Viscoplastic analysis for direct impact of sports balls

A coefficient of restitution (COR) is used to represent viscoplastic dissipation of energy in the contact region of colliding bodies [6]. A model has been developed that distinguishes between rate-independent plastic and rate-dependent viscous energy dissipation during impact. A nondimensional contact force shape factor for compression α is introduced which can be measured experimentally. The measured α and COR are used to separate the energy dissipated during collision into part due to plastic deformation and another part due to viscous dissipation. In comparison to the viscoelastic compliance model, the viscoplastic compliance model approximates the force profile accurately, especially in terms of the maximum force that occurs during impact.

► A model has been developed for viscoplastic impact.
► It calculates rate-independent plastic and rate-dependent viscous energy dissipation.
► A new parameter for the model which can be measured experimentally is introduced.
► The model approximates the force profile accurately.