Design and characterization of an instrumented slider aimed at measuring local micro-impact forces between dry rough solids

Sliding motion between two rough solids under light normal loading involves myriad micro-impacts antagonist micro-asperities. Those are at the origin of many emerging macroscopic phenomena, including friction force, slider's vibrations and noise radiated in surroundings. However, individual properties (e.g. maximum position along interface, duration) essentially elusive to measurement. Here, we introduce an instrumented slider aimed measuring component micro-impact forces during sliding against a track. It is based on array piezoelectric sensors, each placed single model asperity. Its dynamical characteristics established experimentally compared finite elements model. We then validate its measurement capabilities by using it track bearing simple, well-defined topographical features. The measurements interpreted thanks simple multi-asperity contact Our expected be useful future studies provide local insights into variety tribological questions involving dry interfaces.