Contact Analysis of a Snap Hook Using a Penalty Formulation
Application ID: 12577
This example simulates the insertion of a snap hook in its groove. Here, the purpose of the contact modeling is only to transmit correct contact forces in a global sense into the model, which is a situation well suited for using the penalty method. This contact algorithm is based on the penalty factor formulation related to the penetration of the solid parts in contact. In some cases, this approach can result in faster computations and provide smoother convergence when compared to the Augmented Lagrangian method.

This model example illustrates applications of this type that would nominally be built using the following products:
Structural Mechanics Modulehowever, additional products may be required to completely define and model it. Furthermore, this example may also be defined and modeled using components from the following product combinations:
- COMSOL Multiphysics® and
- either the MEMS Module, or Structural Mechanics Module
The combination of COMSOL® products required to model your application depends on several factors and may include boundary conditions, material properties, physics interfaces, and part libraries. Particular functionality may be common to several products. To determine the right combination of products for your modeling needs, review the Grille de Spécifications and make use of a free evaluation license. The COMSOL Sales and Support teams are available for answering any questions you may have regarding this.