Static and dynamic contact/impact problems using fictitious forces

A new finite element model for the contact/impact problem is presented, and both its static and dynamic implementations are described. In this geometrical non‐linear formulation, contact (from node to surface) is simulated through fictitious equivalent pressure along the boundary. Contrary to most existing models, this formulation entails relatively few matrix decompositions and thus is computationally inexpensive. The model is first assessed through some classical contact problems, and is subsequently applied to the fracture mechanics based analysis of a cracked dam under seismic excitation.