A General Method for Predicting the Influence of Structural Support Upon Rolling Element Bearing Performance

Abstract

A general analytical technique is presented for the evaluation of rolling element bearings when their structural support significantly influences the equilibrium solution. A cylindrical roller bearing supported by an elastic outer housing with two stiff leg supports is analyzed to illustrate the application of this computer oriented method. Experimental determination of the roller load distribution by “footprint” measurement techniques shows excellent agreement with the analytical predictions. The method of solution is outlined with sufficient detail to enable the cooperation of structural and bearing analysis in the solution of a class of problems requiring both disciplines.