Dynamics of Bearing Shaft Systems

The objective of this study was to develop a bearing model which can be combined with shafts, gears etc. to virtually investigate the motion and loading of the elements in the bearing. Models for ball, cylindrical and tapered rolling bearing dynamics have been designed, developed and combined with rigid and flexible shafts subject to various loading conditions and eccentric masses. The results from this investigation demonstrated that for rotating shaft bearing systems, the motion and the loads on the rolling elements are significantly different than that predicted by static and / or quasi-static type analysis. Results from shaft bearing system, where shaft may be supported by combinations of ball and rolling element bearings will be demonstrated. Cage motion and stability under various load and speed combinations will be discussed.