Dynamic rigid indentation induced by sliding frictionless contact

Dynamic rigid indentation induced by sliding frictionless contact is studied by considering a rigid smooth half-wedge which simultaneously translates tangentially and normally at constant speeds with respect to the surface of an elastic half-space. A more general problem is treated by homogeneous function techniques and the solutions are then applied. Among other results, it is found that if no tangential speed is imposed, the half-wedge must approach a flat punch configuration and a maximum normal force must be applied. The normal half-space surface displacements are also plotted.