Radial Surface Bearing Optimization for Internal Combustion Engines

The aim of this work is to develop a computational algorithm for bearing surface shape optimization. The algorithm uses the Elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory that takes into account the elastic bearing deformation due to hydrodynamic pressure distribution. This pressure distribution is calculated by solving the Reynolds equation using the Finite Elements Method (FEM). The FEM is also used to calculate the bearing radial deformation. Then an optimization methodology is applied to obtain a new bearing with better performance characteristics by changing only the geometry of the bearing surface.