Performance evaluation of a Ball Screw mechanism through a multibody dynamic model

Ball screws are mechanism to convert the rotational into linear motion and viceversa and are widespread in a variety of different sectors. A detailed high-fidelity dynamic mathematical model of such component is paramount in several fields and, in particular, in the definition of a PHM system for flight control EMAs in order to increase their reliability. In fact they can be used as a virtual test bench on which inject artificial defects and study their effect on specific indicators. This paper presents a MBD model of a single-nut ball screw with internal recirculation able of describing the full dynamic of each internal component allowing a more in-depth understanding of the system behavior and poses the basis for PHM-oriented analyses on different degradations.