The Dynamics of Ball Bearings

Abstract

The details of the dynamics of the elements of a ball bearing become increasingly important at high speeds. A comprehensive general analysis of the motions of balls and a ball separator with realistic lubrication is summarized. The equations of motion consider four degree-of-freedom balls and a six degree-of-freedom separator and are integrated numerically with a fourth order Runge Kutta scheme. Numerical results are presented for a particular spin axis gyro bearing configuration.