Development of a Morphing Structure for a Novel Active Multiphase Hybrid Bearing

• Grant number: 24/00940-8
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Mechanics of Solids
• Principal Investigator: Diogo Stuani Alves
• Grantee: Diogo Stuani Alves
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Mecânica (FEM). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Despite all existing knowledge regarding the dynamics of rotating systems, a growing demand for low operational costs and higher system efficiency is driving researchers to develop new solutions for classical problems. In this sense, active bearings can be employed to obtain the previous goals, especially those related to reducing power loss and maintaining a stable and long-lasting operation. An active bearing can be conceived through the combination of any element that enables control with some traditional type of bearing. This is the principle of an active hybrid bearing. Additionally, the use of bearings with low coefficient of friction - for instance, gas-lubricated bearings - is essential to increase the system's energy efficiency. Therefore, the proposed research project will develop a new active hybrid bearing concept for increasing the energy efficiency of rotating systems. It will allow higher rotating speeds, less energy dissipation through friction, and fewer maintenance stops. The main idea is to develop a fluid-dynamic bearing lubricated by liquid and gas in distinctive stages of operation. For this, a mechanism that can locally change the bearing geometry is needed to alter the radial clearance. The new design considers the main advantages of hydro and gas dynamic bearings, morphing structures, and smart materials. The current project will investigate which final geometry is needed to allow the lubrication change and develop the mechanism for changing the bearing's shape. (AU)