The Boundary Layer Machine

In multi‐body systems, friction often occurs as a result of the contact between two bodies. The resulting forces may be desirable or undesirable, depending on the intended function of a technical system. Although a number of different causes of these forces have been worked out, the scientific understanding required for a systematic adjustment of friction towards satisfying given requirements is still incomplete. This makes it difficult for the designer to design an optimal friction contact. This is reflected in a large number of scientific publications in the associated fields. In order to cope with these challenges, a new, holistic approach is required to recognize and describe the general design principles of friction contacts. Based on the understanding of these principles, design guidelines in a design catalog can be formulated to support designers. In further steps, the designer can parametrize the frictional contact based on a catalog of diverse possible solutions. In the future, this tool should help the designer to find a simple, fast, and effective solution. (© 2017 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)