A nonsmooth optimization approach for hemivariational inequalities with applications in Contact Mechanics

Abstract: In this paper we introduce an abstract nonsmooth optimization problem and prove existence and uniqueness of its solution. We present a numerical scheme to approximate this solution. The theory is later applied to a sample static contact problem describing an elastic body in frictional contact with a foundation. This contact is governed by a nonmonotone friction law with dependence on normal and tangential components of displacement. Finally, computational simulations are performed to illustrate obtained results.