An integrated dynamic design system for aerostatic spindle development

In this paper an integrated dynamic design and modeling system is developed for aerostatic spindle development. This system integrates initial structural design, bearing stiffness computation and the spindle dynamic performance prediction. Modal fitting is used to transform the finite element model into a two-degree-of-freedom system model, which will make it easier to control the system and calculate the dynamic response. The design system is implemented by using commercial software, such as Pro/E, Matlab and Ansys. Consequently, the integrated dynamic design system enables the designers to cost-effectively complete structural design of an aerostatic spindle. A case study has been presented in this paper for design of an aerostatic spindle used for flycutting. The machining results demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed integrated dynamic design system for aerostatic spindles design.