Numerical Investigation in Rotor Motion and Elasto-Hydrodynamic Rotor Bearing Behavior of a Rotary Engine Using Flexible Multi-Body Dynamics

The objective of the present investigation is to develop a suitable simulation method for dynamic analysis of rotary engines using Finite Element Method (FEM) and for flexible multi-body dynamics using AVL EXCITE. The engine analyzed is the current MAZDA gasoline engine with two rotors.

The general approach and the tools applied are well established for reciprocating combustion engines, but the requirements concerning the simulation of rotary engines are very different due to the higher bearing loads, rotor guidance in the housing by a gear and the special requirements for axial movement of the rotor relative to the housing to ensure sealing.

Detailed investigations are made for the simulation of the complex dynamics of the moving engine parts with respect to the interaction between flexible models of rotors, eccentric shaft and housing using axial contact between rotors and housing as well as detailed elasto-hydrodynamic bearing models (EHD) for the rotor bearings.

The paper presents the problem definition, modeling technique, the obtained results and the main conclusions of the investigation.