As will be seen, this model depends on a multitude of parameters , characterising the cantilever, its tip, the sample and of course the interaction between tip and sample. In the simulation, these parameters can be varied and the expected tip response calculated and displayed alongside a variety of physical quantities relevant to the problem. By setting the parameter PPA in the Cantilever base excitation parameters to zero, a force spectroscopy mode simulation will be obtained. The tip-sample interaction is modeled in the same fashion, with nonlinear ki and bi . The sample is moved slowly towards the tip with speed V .
Energy dissipation is accomplished by means of a dashpot.
DMT mechanics is most appropriate for rigid systems, low work of adhesion and small radii of curvature. BCP is the intermediate case, for moderately stiff systems. Energy dissipation is modeled by a dashpot only. The contact geometry is allowed to be severly deformed. JKRS mechanics is best for comliant systems, large work of adhesion and large radii of curvature.