Clearance optimization of piston/cylinder pair based on virtual prototype of axial piston pump

The virtual prototype of axial piston pump is discussed in details through its application in the investigation on piston/cylinder pair. Three sub-models are introduced firstly. The data are transferred between three sub-models through the software interfaces. The liquid-solid coupling and rigid-flexible coupling of piston/cylinder pair model are achieved through the co-simulation model. Then several related test rigs are mentioned. The comparisons of simulation results and experimental results demonstrate that the virtual prototype of axial piston pump has a satisfying accuracy and a great potential in axial piston pump design. At last, the influence the average clearance height of piston/cylinder pair is analyzed. The simulation results indicate that the reduction of the average clearance height between piston and cylinder bore contributes to the reduction of leakage and friction force of piston/cylinder pair, and the improvement of the carrying ability of the lubricating oil film.