A Study of the Contact Bounce Phenomenon

A combination of energy and force concepts are applied to a study of several aspects of the contact bounce phenomenon. Energy dissipation at the contact interface is studied by quasistatic and dynamic techniques. Both work hardening and deformation result in a progressive reduction in the energy dissipating properties of common contact metals. The significant effect of the support structure upon bounce is analyzed by means of simple models leading to criteria for the minimization of contact bounce duration.