Application of Elements of Numerical Methods in the Analysis of Journal Bearings in AC Induction Motors: An Industry Case Study.

In product engineering there often arise design analysis problems for which a commercial software package is either unavailable or cost prohibitive. Further, these calculations often require successive iterations that can be time intensive when performed by hand, thus development of a software application is indicated.    This case relates to the development of a Visual Basic? application that utilizes numerical methods to solve journal bearing design problems in an AC induction motor application. Specific emphasis is given to the linkage between the industry design problem detailed in this article and the course numerical methods, an important component of the Mechanical Engineering Technology curriculum at the University of Cincinnati College of Applied Science (OCAS) where many employees of Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc (Norwood) have received their education. This article begins with a brief overview of the course Numerical Methods (OCAS, 32-MET-302) then follows with a description of journal bearing applications in AC induction motors, including design issues that frequently require analysis, then concludes with comments about the utility of this type of case as a pedagogical tool in a classroom context.