Automatic Construction of a Computational Model for a Three-Dimensional Resistance Network

A three-dimensional resistance network model is proposed for the analysis of contact resistance profile derived from fretting degradation. This study focuses on a tin-plated Cu alloy contact. As fretting progresses, several oxidized particles are observed at the interface of contacts. In a computational model, it is necessary to distribute particles randomly and properly. The interface part in this model is constructed as a bundle of several layers. In each layer, material property for each cell is assigned using probability theory. In this model, the cells can be assigned as metal, oxide, or air. The cells in a layer are arranged in a two-dimensional plane. These layers combine to constitute a three-dimensional model. It is recognized that the oxide composition is not constant. At least two different tin oxides must exist at the interface. The relationship between contact resistance and the ratio of the different oxides is discussed.