This project aims at developing a smart integrated bearing for use
in high performance industrial machines. The basic idea is to
develop an integrated bearing that consists of a journal bearing
and a magnetic bearing such that the integrated bearing is capable
of carrying large loads on the journal bearing, while maintaining
controllability and observability using the magnetic bearing.
This bearing is anticipated to be capable of operating at a multitude
of operating conditions effectively and smartly, and promises to be
a breakthrough technology for high performance bearings.
The Smart Integrated Bearing (SIB) aims at eliminating instability
and vibration due to high performance machines. Any technology
that is capable of overcoming that problem is highly welcome by
industry. In addition, the smart bearing concept allows extensive
control and disagnostic capabilities.
This research project is conducted in partnership with Institut National
Des Sciences Appliquees de Lyon (INSA).
The Smart Integrated Bearing concept is protected by US Intelectual
Property protection under US Patent #7836601. Various other regions
patents pending.