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.