System, method and apparatus for tolerance ring control of slip interface sliding forces

Abstract

A tolerance ring comprising a metallic band for spring features and a complementary low friction material for frictional considerations is disclosed. The tolerance ring is designed to operate within a precisely controlled torque or axial force band to provide a defined amount of resistance and sliding force control between components that move relative to each other. Isolated portions of the tolerance ring form regions of contact with adjacent ones of the components. Other surfaces of the tolerance ring comprise portions with spring features that have geometry suitable for their spring rate, rather than conforming to mating surfaces of the adjacent components.

Description

[0001]This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional App. No. 61 / 245,883, filed Sep. 25, 2009, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]The invention generally relates to tolerance rings that are located between moving parts and, in particular, to an improved system, method and apparatus employing a tolerance ring.BACKGROUND[0003]Tolerance rings constrain movement between relatively moving parts, such as rotating shafts in housing bores. One type of tolerance ring is an annular band located in the gap between the outer surface of the shaft and the inner surface of the bore. This tolerance ring limits radial motion of the shaft within the bore while still permitting rotation.[0004]In conventional tolerance ring configurations, a close fit between the inner and outer components is sought. In addition, either forces for providing maximal frictional engagement or minimal variation in sliding forces are sought. A close ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]In other embodiments, an assembly comprises an outer component, an inner component located in the outer component and movable relative thereto, and a tolerance ring mounted between the inner and outer components. The tolerance ring provides a radial stiffness that is greater than about 20,000 N / mm and parameters selected from the following: a slip torque in a range of 1 to 25 Nm, and a diameter of less than about 40 mm; a slip torque in a range of 1 to 100 Nm, and a diameter of more than 40 mm; or a low resistance to axial sliding in a range of 10 to 600 N, and a diameter of more than 10 mm. Applications having smaller diameters may provide a lower radial stiffness.

Problems solved by technology

These requirements between the inner and outer components require strong and substantial contact, which increases frictional forces.

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