A CAE Tool Dedicated to the Design of Hydrodynamic Bearings

Abstract

This article details the development of a CAE tool (Computer Aided Design) for use in the design development phase of hydrodynamic cylindrical plain journal bearings, as fundamental parts of large and medium load rotative machines and also as components commonly used in the present automobile industry. It is demonstrated that PC platform developed software can be used in the teaching of mechanical engineering course disciplines involving machine component design, as well as inn mechanical system design. The software allows the visualization of important parameters such as: hydrodynamic pressure distribution, locus of the rotative shaft centre and loss of viscous friction. Thus, a constructive teaching principle can be applied, by trial and error, using the software as a virtual laboratory.