Finite element analysis of the interface phenomena between VCR tape and head

The authors have developed a computational method for simulating the behaviour of a tape running along a rotating cylinder with a video head fixed to it. The flexible tape is modeled as a thin anisotropic shell and the air-film is treated by the modified Reynolds equation. The two sets of equations are coupled in the finite element method. The calculated results were in good agreement with experimental ones, within an error of 7%. It is concluded that this simulation method will provide good information for optimizing head geometry and tape components.<
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