Gap Element Properties

The gap element properties are as follows:

Initial Gap (U0)

the initial gap opening.

Preload (F0)

is the preload.

Axial Stiffness of Closed Gap (KA)

axial stiffness for the closed gap.

Axial Stiffness of Open Gap (KB)

axial stiffness for the open gap.

Transverse Stiffness (KT)

transverse stiffness when the gap is closed. It is recommended that KT ≥ (0.1 * KA).

Coeff of Static Friction (MU1)

coefficient of static friction for the adaptive element or coefficient of friction in the y transverse direction for the non adaptive gap element.

Coeff of Kinetic Friction (MU2)

coefficient of kinetic friction for the adaptive gap element or coefficient of friction in the z transverse direction for the non adaptive gap element.

Max Allowable Penetration (TMAX)

maximum allowable penetration used in the adjustment of penalty values. The positive value activates the penalty value adjustment.

Max Allowable Adjustment Ratio (MAR)

maximum allowable adjustment ratio for adaptive penalty values KA and KT.

Fraction of TMAX Defining Lower Bound (TRMIN)

fraction of TMAX defining the lower bound for the allowable penetration. (Default = 0.001)

Normal X1

the normal value for the X direction.

Normal X2

the normal value for the Y direction.

Normal X3

the normal value for the Z direction.