Contact modelling in the vicinity of an edge

In this paper the problem of a spherical contact in the vicinity of an edge will be considered by analytical modelling and nanoindentation experiments . This problem attracts interest because of the increasing use of nanoinden tation as a tool for the investigation of mechanical property profiles of c ross-sectioned samples. The paper is separated into three parts: first, a s hort introduction will be given into the problem of the theoretical modelli ng and the mathematical procedures necessary to solve load problems for so called quarter spaces, which deal as a model for rectangular bound bodies. In a second part the effect of the edge and its distance from the contact c entre on the measurable parameters indentation depth and force are discusse d with experimental results obtained using a UMIS-2000 nanoindenter system. Finally an illustration of the elastic stress and displacement field resul ting from a Hertzian load in the vicinity of an edge is given. (C) 2001 Els evier Science B.V. All rights reserved.