An aerodynamic bearing capable of self-lift by squeeze film is presented. The bearing uses piezoelectric actuators and elastic hinges in order elastically to deform the initial cylindrical clearance to a three-lobe clearance. The three-lobe clearance can cyclically deform with sufficient amplitude and frequency to generate a squeeze-film pressure. This squeeze-film separates the shaft and bearing surfaces, and eliminates rubbing of the two surfaces at low rotational speeds. Numerical and experimental results show that, although the proposed bearing has a relatively low squeeze-film load capacity, it is practically feasible.
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