Numerical Model of Digital Valve-Controlled Active Air Bearing

Abstract

An active air thrust bearing controlled by an Arduino board and digital valves is described. A numerical model for the complete system is developed to design the control and perform a sensitivity analysis based on geometric parameters such as the conductance of the valves. Model validation is based on experimental open-loop and closed-loop tests. The purpose of the model is to determine the range of force and air gap height in which the pad can be controlled.