The similarity theory is in essence a method based on equation expression. In the application, the model is regarded to be similar to the prototype only if the similarity theorem can be met. But different physical objects have the same equation expression, so the model is always not similar to the prototype. To solve this problem, a new method which studies the similarity of mechanical components from the perspective of function and structure is put forward in this paper, based on the similarity theory and the ‘black box’ concept. The functional similarity criteria and structural similarity criteria derived from this method can accurately describe the similar properties of mechanical components under different similar requirements and can be used to set up the experimental model. Finally, a series of basic mechanical components are taken for example to verify the feasibility and superiority of this method. The method put forward in this paper can be applied to model test design and engineering test, etc. under different similar requirements.
Design the technological process and equipment using fields and energy flows based on analysis of similarity criteria
