Bond graph modeling of planar prismatic joints

Neglecting dynamic load during design of a prismatic joint for high-speed operation may lead to unpredictable failures. A slider joint is usually a part of a pneumatic or hydraulic actuation device which may further involve complicated control systems. Thus, design/analysis of prismatic joints calls for a multi-energy domain modeling approach such as bond graph for reusability of the model in different application scenarios. The slider is treated to be a multibody system composed of two separate rigid bodies which are constrained to produce the desired motion. The constraints generate the dynamic contact forces which are used to compute the dynamic frictional forces. The bond graph model of the planar slider component developed in this article accurately calculates the dynamic loads. The model is first validated through numerical simulations performed on a Rapson slide. Thereafter, a multi-energy model for a V-twin engine and its mounting is developed to show how bond graph modeling makes it possible to create an integrated model of thermal, pneumatic and mechanical systems. Finally, the bond graph model of a three-dimensional prismatic joint is developed.