To address the issue of the traditional support model's inability to accurately describe the non-uniform dynamics behavior inside the bearing, this study proposes a novel 4-degree-of-freedom (DOF) bearing support model that incorporates the discrete distribution effects induced by the bi-directional misalignment and bending deformation of the journal. Additionally, a coupling algorithm is designed to study the interaction behaviors between the marine stern bearing lubrication performance and the shaft dynamics. Moreover, a full-size marine shaft alignment test rig for measuring dynamic bearing loads is designed to verify the validity of the present model. On this basis, the effects of different bearing models, rotational speeds, external loads, and bush elastic modulus on the shaft dynamic alignment and the static and dynamic characteristics of the stern bearing are investigated. The experimental results indicate that the 4-DOF model, which takes into account discrete distribution, exhibits a more precise prediction of the alignment characteristics of the shaft system, with a forecast error for the stern bearing load of 1.32%. Heavy loads or low rotational speeds significantly deteriorate the edge-loading effect and increase the stiffness and damping coefficient of the bearings. The bearing lubrication performance directly affects the alignment performance of the shaft system, particularly in low-speed conditions. A softer bush material can increase the minimum oil film thickness, carrying region, and damping coefficient, mitigate the phenomenon of edge-loading, and facilitate the vibration control of the shaft. Research results have made a great contribution to marine shaft alignment optimization and structure design.
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