Conical indentation over a transversely isotropic and layered elastic half-space

We propose a novel method for solving the static response of a conical indenter on a transversely isotropic and layered elastic half-space. The newly developed Fourier-Bessel series (FBS) system of vector functions, along with the unconditionally stable dual-variable and position method, is employed to derive the Green's function in the transversely isotropic and layered elastic half-space under a vertical ring load on the surface. To calculate the response at different field points on the surface, we apply discrete love numbers within the FBS vector system. The load densities in the discretized rings within the contact radius of the conical indenter are determined using the integral least-square method, along with a self-adaptive algorithm developed in this study. Finally, the relationship between the indentation depth (vertical displacement) and the applied load is obtained through force balance between the external load and the summed contact traction. The developed scheme is validated using existing exact solutions for the reduced homogeneous half-space case. Selected numerical results clearly demonstrate the effect of anisotropic material and layering on the indentation response. It is observed that, regardless of whether the structure is a stratified half-space or a layered structure with a rigid substrate, the material properties in the top layer have the most significant influence on the indentation behavior. In the case of a layered structure with an underlying elastic half-space, the material properties in the interlayer and bottom layer could also affect the indentation behaviors.