EXPERT KNOWLEDGE-BASE SYSTEM FOR COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN OF FULL HYDRODYNAMIC JOURNAL BEARING

The design process of hydrodynamic journal bearing involves reading of various charts and tables of numerical values, causing time consuming and less accurate results. A program is developed for computer aided design of hydrodynamic journal bearing. This program is based on Raimondi and Boyd chart and tables, it is developed using an integrated methodology for designing of full (360°) hydrodynamic journal bearings. A database containing the design variables of load per unit of projected area and bearing clearance in industrial applications, needed in the bearing design is derived. The performance parameters including temperature rise, clearance, minimum film thickness and stability indicate how well the bearing is performing. The architecture of the software uses a rule based production system, so certain limitations on their values are imposed, using empirical guidelines, to assure satisfactory performance. Design optimization is based on maximum load and minimum friction.