Abstract :
The paper deals with a general and highly effective method for the solution of contact problems with one-side constraint, which are necessary particularly for the calculation of machine parts fitting in engineering. This method belongs to the group of methods for solving boundary value problems such as the finite element method (FEM) or the boundary element method (BEM). The substance of the method presented consists of setting up and solving numerically the boundary integral equations of contact with the aid of boundary elements as well. In its mathematical and physical substance, the contact boundary integral equations solution method is admittedly related but not identical to the method denoted as BEM. It means, that both the structure of the integral equations and the kernels of the integral members are for both method entirely different. The great advantage of this method is that it involves both the effect of macro-unevenness and waviness on the contact surface and also the possibility to combine it with other methods and procedures. From this it follows that the interface is in general comprised of alternating contact and gap regions, and the system being solved is subject to nonlinear physical constraints. The method is particularly suitable for the solution of compound contact problems such as for example the fitting calculations of shafts with rolling bearings.
