Hertzian contact theory

Hertzian contact theory describes how rigid bodies deform and interact when they touch, particularly under load. When two hard surfaces meet, they create a small contact area where their shapes slightly change due to pressure. This theory helps predict how much force they can withstand before failing, how much they will deform, and the distribution of pressure between them. It's widely used in engineering, particularly in designing gears, bearings, and other mechanical components, to ensure durability and performance under various loads. This understanding helps engineers create safer and more efficient machines.