Abstract: The present disclosure concerns the application of the “Wave Bearing Concept” to journal and thrust fluid film bearings to increase performance and reliability. The wave surface is present on whichever member is stationary or non-rotating. Some applications are: pressurized gas journal wave bearings for increased load capacity and dynamic stability; journal wave bearings with liquid lubricants for extreme load capacity and excellent thermal and dynamic stability under any load; thrust wave bearings for axial positioning and axial loads; journal bearings with an elastic wave sleeve that can be activated via actuators (“active/passive control fluid film bearing”) or may change by itself (“smart bearings”) to adapt the bearing performance to the applied bearing load and speed. Journal and thrust bearings incorporating the present invention are appropriate for either mono-directional or bi-directional rotation.

Abstract: An air bearing comprising a static shaft having a circumferential surface in a form which when developed into a substantially flat plane takes the form of a series of shallow sinusoidal waves having at least three wave peaks, wherein one of the peaks carries a groove extending longitudinally parallel to the shaft axis and which bearing further comprises a hollow support member mounted for rotation around the static shaft.

Abstract: An air bearing having a non-circular bearing having a longitudinal bearing axis, and a plain cylindrical horizontal shaft rotatably mounted in the bearing, wherein the bearing surface when developed into a flat plane, has a shallow sinusoidal wave form including at least three wave peaks, one of the peaks having a groove therein, extending longitudinally, parallel to the bearing axis.