An iterative complementarity approach for elastoplastic analysis involving frictional contact

We consider the nonholonomic (path-dependent) elastoplastic analysis of suitably discretized structures involving classical frictional contact conditions. A mixed generalized variable finite element approach within a mathematical programming framework is developed. Various models of generalized variables plasticity laws and contact conditions can be accommodated. The numerical solution is carried out in typical stepwise holonomic (path-independent) fashion. In particular, the iterative algorithm proposed involves solving a series of complementarity problems, with appropriate updating being carried out to account for changes in contact and possibly also plasticity conditions. Application is illustrated through several examples. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.