Modelling the static contact between a fingertip and a rigid Pyramidal surface.

ABSTRACT
Surface topography is one of the major parameters affecting friction during touch and consequently
tactility. In order to understand and control friction, fine controlled surfaces with a pyramidal topography
are studied to derive an analytical contact model. The model (developed by A.SAMEUR [1]) is applied on a
surface with pyramidal texture (3D) to determine the relation between the contact pressure and area in
the early contact. The analytical solution obtained from the 3D case allows estimating the real contact
force from a straightforward equation. Theory of the interaction potential between a rigid body and an
elastic solid is used. Contact force is expressed in terms of the volume of interpenetration, the surface and
the perimeter of the base of this volume as well as the mechanical characteristics of surfaces in contact.
1. Model

Fig. 4. Dimensions for the trapezoidal ridges

that the model was based on.
Fig. 1. Pyramidal surface with blunt corners.

Fig. 5. Dimensions of pyramid, a=150µm.

2. Contact situation

Fig. 2. Flat face of trepizoidal finger ridge

resting on pyramidal surface.

The finger model is based on the work of Kenneth

Duvefelt[2].

Fig. 5. Finger interaction with pyramid.

The volume of the part in contact is evaluated by
V= (1/3) δ r2.
Fig. 3. Section of assumed fingerprint used in The surface of the base in contact is S= r2.
this model to the left and contact zones on
fingerprint to the right. The perimeter of the surface S is p= 4r.
The relation between r and δ is .
The potential U, for the interaction of the bodies
in contact, is calculated from the expression of

virtual works by
The constant cp is identified experimentally.
The force P is given by

Areal = r2
Aapparent = (4a) 2
Pressure= P/A
Flattening pressure=P/ Aapparent.
The above model gives force as a function of r
and delta.

References
[1] A simple model for elastic and viscoelastic
punch indentation problems with
experimental validation A. SAMEUR1, H.
P. YIN1, D. DUHAMEL1, V. VILKE2.
[2] Modelling the static contact between a
fingertip and a rigid wavy surface
[https://doi.org/10.1016/j.triboint.2014.12.
020].
[3]