ABSTRACT
Since rolling element bearings always inject some load fluctuations and noise, they can rarely be used in ultraprecision translation systems. Thus we nearly always apply a variation of a slideway involving the motion of a set of bearing pads sliding over a datum surface. This chapter explores their kinematics and so proposes some general rules for both geometric and materials design. It then looks in more detail at different pad principles. Relatively little, other than an overview, is given on fluid film bearings, for which extensive literature exists elsewhere. A rather fuller treatment of solid contact systems is given. In all cases, practical limits of precision are discussed.
