A Pragmatic Approach for the Evaluation of Depth-Sensing Indentation in the Self-Similar Regime

Abstract This work evaluates and revisits elements from the depth-sensing indentation literature by means of carefully chosen practical cases, simulated numerically compared to experiments. The aim is not provide a comprehensive study, but close series debated subjects, which constitute major sources inaccuracies in evaluation data practice, with help illustrative examples. First, own examples references are presented order demonstrate how crucial self-similarity detection blunting distance compensation are, for establishing rigorous link between experiments simple sharp indenter models. Moreover, it demonstrated, once again, terms clear examples, that no more than two parameters necessary achieve an excellent match finite element simulation experimental force–displacement data. conclusion reverse analysis methods promising deliver set three unique material cannot be reliable. Lastly, light broad availability modern software, we also suggest avoid rigid approximation, as shown lead unnecessary inaccuracies. All conclusions critical review performed new semi-analytical method, based on available dimensionless functions calibration against case specific simulations. Implementations model employed released supplementary material, software packages.