Block sliding on a plane
This example demonstrates a 3D block sliding on a plane. A normal load is applied from the top on a narrow strip. A shear load is applied mid-height, also along a narrow strip. The contours in the above figure show the deformation profile through the block in an advanced stage of deformation.
In this figure it can be observed that as the load increases, the block deforms elastically at first then yields and slides.
Since DD elements satisfy rigid body motion requirements, large displacement block movements can be considered. This includes the simulation of blocks sliding on planes under external or gravity loading and is useful for simulation of wedge failures along convoluted 3D slip surfaces.