Abstract
A common simplification in tribological modeling assumes negligible tribodynamics. This study investigates the usability of tribological models with this assumption to describe hydraulic speed-variable drive-type systems. The study also investigates a plug-and-play tuning strategy for adaptive ultrasound reflectometry-based lubrication thickness measurements. The investigation compares dynamic and steady-state tribological modeling approaches and adaptive ultrasound reflectometry using experimental testing of a journal bearing setup. Simulations and ultrasound reflectometry give similar results regarding system vibrations, but discrepancies occur with large changes in rotational speed. Ultrasound measurements differ from simulations in the absolute level of lubrication film thickness, likely due to a lack of accuracy and robustness. Tribological models without dynamics are from this study believed to provide substantial system information at a much lower computational cost than dynamic models. The results are however limited by the current state of ultrasound reflectometry.
