Model and nonlinear dynamic analysis of linear guideway subjected to external periodic excitation in five directions

Investigation of the dynamic characteristics of linear guideway is essential for enhancing structural performance of machine tools. However, few mechanical models are established for vibration analysis of linear guideway when it is subjected to complex external loads. In this paper, we presented a five degrees of freedom dynamic model for investigating nonlinear vibration behavior of linear guideway subjected to external periodic excitation. The idea of coordinate transformation is adopted for the easier derivations of piecewise restoring force function and equation of motion. The numerical simulation shows a wide variety of fascinating phenomena linked to vibration system with the effects from harmonic excitation frequency and amplitude, preload and mass of carriage. The multi-period, quasi-period and chaotic motions are observed by the characterization tools of bifurcation diagram and 3-D frequency spectrum. Moreover, the dynamic experiments are presented for verifying the proposed model. The analytical model developed here can be used for optimal design for high-precision linear guideway.