An Application of the Generalized Polynomial Expansion Method to Nonlinear Rotor Bearing Systems

The Generalized Polynomial Expansion Method (GPEM) is utilized to model a large-order flexible-rotor system with nonlinear supports. With the application of GPEM, a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations are obtained. A hybrid method which combines the merits of the Harmonic Balance Method (HBM) and the Trigonometric Collocation Method (TCM) is used to solve for the nonlinear response of the system. This hybrid method together with reduction techniques can efficiently solve for the motion of the system. The overall algorithm presented provides a very efficient technique for investigating the periodic response of large-order nonlinear rotor systems. Two examples are used to illustrate the merits of the method.