A finite sliding model of two identical spheres under displacement and force control-part I: static analysis

A simplified analytical model of tangential contact engagement, sliding and separation of two elastic, identical spheres is developed assuming the kinematically induced sphere motion trajectory or load controlled sliding motion. The evaluation of driving force during contact sliding motion is determined for both monotonic and reciprocal sliding motion. The analytical formulae and diagrams of driving force versus sliding path are specified for linear and circular paths. The sliding trajectories are also determined for the load controlled programs. The results presented can be applied in the experimental testing of frictional response of contacting bodies, in a wear study of rough surfaces or in the contact interaction analysis of granular material during flow. The results can also be relevant for the development of the discrete element method widely applied in simulation of granular material flow, where the sliding regime conditions prevail in grain contact interaction.