Rigidity versus deformability hypothesis in impact dynamics

Abstract

The complexity of the study concerning an impact phenomenon depends strongly on the accepted simplifying hypothesis for the model. One of the most important assumptions in the study of mechanical impact refers to the absolutely rigid or compliant character of colliding bodies. It is anticipated that the employment of hypothesis of deformable body should lead to a better modelling of the process. The present paper presents a qualitative comparison between the results obtained via the two methods, considering one of the simplest impact models, namely the collision with dry friction between a metallic ball and an immobile flat body.