Abstract: A journal bearing simulation tool developed to aid the design of the MIT microturbo-machine bearings is described. This tool uses an orbit method with a pseudospectral technique for treating ...

Abstract: A direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) investigation of flows related to microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) is detailed. This effort is intended to provide tools to facilitate the design and ...

Abstract: The effect of axially-varying clearance on microfabricated gas journal bearings is explored. This variation commonly arises from difficulties inherent to etching deep, narrow channels. Two types ...

Abstract: A low-order model was created to analyze a small-scale gas bearing with a diameter of 4.1 mm, designed to spin at 2.4 million rpm. Due to microfabrication constraints, the bearing lies outside ...