Set-up of a test rig for lubricated cam simulation

Experimental tests are necessary in order to understand the behaviour of the lubricated contact between the cam and the follower. Some experimental works were made in the past. A study for the realization of a new experimental rig started at the University of Pisa. The new rig is basically able to measure two fundamental quantities of the lubricated contacts: the film thickness and contact force. Due to the continuous movement of the cam-follower contact point, particular problems are related to the contact force measurement and to the interference images detection. A measurement group has been specifically designed able to measure all components of the contact force. The film thickness and shape is estimated by interferometric method using a microscope that can be connected to a high-speed camera; the whole system is moved with specific laws by a computer controlled XYZ positioner. The main problems faced for the preliminary set-up of these two fundamental groups are described in this work.