Chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channel

By designing a closed lubrication cavity and a sealed ball-spring structure in the chain and sprocket assembly, the problem of uneven lubrication distribution is solved, achieving continuous lubrication and sealing protection between the sprocket and the chain, thereby improving transmission efficiency and component lifespan.

CN224680072UActive Publication Date: 2026-08-25TIANJIN TIANTE CHAIN DRIVE EQUIP MFG CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202522521747.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-11-27
Publication Date
2026-08-25
Estimated Expiration
2035-11-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional chain and sprocket assemblies are prone to lubricating oil splashing and loss during meshing, resulting in uneven distribution, severe wear, increased maintenance costs, and environmental pollution.

Method used

The design incorporates a chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels, including a first lubrication channel and a second lubrication channel, forming a closed lubrication chamber. This, combined with a sealed ball-spring structure, ensures continuous and uniform distribution of lubricating oil, and the oil level is monitored via a connecting glass tube.

Benefits of technology

It achieves all-round sealing protection for sprockets and chains, reduces lubricant loss, extends component life, improves transmission efficiency, and reduces maintenance difficulty and cost.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides a chain sprocket assembly with lubricating channel, including two sprockets, the surface transmission connection of two sprockets has chain, and the outside of sprocket and chain is provided with lubricating channel, and lubricating channel includes the first lubricating path of setting in the rear side of sprocket and chain and the second lubricating path of setting in the front side of first lubricating path and being located in the front side of sprocket and chain, and the left side of first lubricating path and second lubricating path is provided with first through cavity, and the right side of first lubricating path and second lubricating path is provided with second through cavity, and the top of second lubricating path is connected with installation cylinder, and the front side of second lubricating path is connected with communicating glass tube. The lubricating channel for realizing the sealed protection of sprocket and chain to the chain is placed to the lubricating oil, and then realizes the lubrication of sprocket and chain and reduces the damage of sprocket and chain when using the mutual friction between.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of chain and sprocket technology, specifically to a chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel. Background Technology

[0002] Chain and sprocket assemblies are widely used in mechanical transmission systems. However, during actual operation, the chain and sprocket generate significant friction due to frequent meshing and relative movement. This not only leads to energy loss and reduces transmission efficiency but also accelerates the wear of the chain and sprocket, shortening the service life of the assembly.

[0003] Traditional lubrication methods typically involve periodically applying lubricating oil to the surfaces of the chain and sprockets. However, this method has several drawbacks. On the one hand, lubricating oil is prone to splashing and running off during transmission, making it difficult to continuously and effectively lubricate the meshing parts of the chain and sprockets. On the other hand, it cannot guarantee that the lubricating oil is evenly distributed across the entire meshing surface, leading to severe localized wear. Furthermore, frequent application of lubricating oil not only increases maintenance costs and workload but also, in some work environments with high cleanliness requirements, the splashing of lubricating oil can pollute the surrounding environment. Utility Model Content

[0004] The present invention aims to solve the problems mentioned in the background art by providing a chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel.

[0005] The specific technical solution is as follows: A chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel includes two sprockets, a chain being drivenly connected to the surfaces of the two sprockets, and a lubrication channel being provided on the outer sides of the sprockets and the chain; The lubrication channel includes a first lubrication channel located behind the sprocket and chain, and a second lubrication channel located in front of the first lubrication channel and in front of the sprocket and chain. A first through cavity is provided on the left side of the first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel, and a second through cavity is provided on the right side of the first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel. An installation cylinder is connected to the top of the second lubrication channel, and a connecting glass tube is connected to the front side of the second lubrication channel.

[0006] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the bottom of the second lubrication channel is connected to an oil drain pipe, and the bottom of the oil drain pipe is threadedly connected to a threaded sealing plug.

[0007] As a preferred embodiment of this utility model, the first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel are each provided with an installation groove on the side that is relatively close to each other, and a sealing strip is provided inside the installation groove.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment of this utility model, a limiting barrier ring is fixedly installed on the top of the mounting cylinder, and a sealing ball is provided inside the mounting cylinder and at the bottom of the limiting barrier ring.

[0009] As a preferred embodiment of this utility model, a limiting plate is fixedly installed at the bottom of the mounting cylinder, a limiting rod is inserted inside the limiting plate, the top of the limiting rod is fixedly connected to the bottom of the sealing ball, and a blocking plate is fixedly installed at the bottom of the limiting rod and below the limiting plate.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of this utility model, a spring is sleeved on the outer side of the limiting rod, the top of the spring contacts the bottom of the sealing ball, and the bottom of the spring contacts the top of the limiting plate.

[0011] As a preferred embodiment of this utility model, connecting blocks are fixedly installed on the outer sides of both the first and second lubrication channels, and bolts are inserted into the interior of the connecting blocks.

[0012] This utility model has the following beneficial effects: 1. Double-sealed protection extends component lifespan. The component employs a structured, sealed design for the lubrication channels, creating a comprehensive protection system for the sprocket and chain, significantly reducing the impact of external environmental factors and frictional losses on the component. Isolation from pollution and corrosion: The first and second lubrication channels form a front-to-back encapsulation of the sprocket and chain, and together with the sealing strip in the installation groove, a tight seal is achieved at the joint, effectively preventing external pollutants such as dust, mud, and water stains from entering the meshing area. Compared with traditional unprotected components, it avoids "abrasive wear" caused by pollutant inclusion.

[0013] Reduced lubrication loss: The sealed lubrication channel forms a closed lubricating oil storage space. Combined with the sealing ball-spring sealing structure at the mounting cylinder, it can effectively prevent lubricating oil leakage caused by centrifugal force during component operation or environmental vibration. There is no need to frequently add lubricating oil, which reduces lubricating oil waste and avoids pollution of the working environment by leaked grease.

[0014] 2. Precise and long-lasting lubrication enhances transmission stability and efficiency. The component achieves "continuous, uniform, and controllable" lubrication in the sprocket-chain meshing area through a structured design of lubrication channels and a filling and sealing mechanism, thus optimizing transmission performance. Continuous lubrication of the meshing area: The closed first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel form a surrounding oil cavity. When the sprocket and chain are running, they can be directly immersed in the lubricating oil. The meshing surfaces can be fully lubricated every time they come into contact. Compared with the traditional "periodic manual application" or "oil drip lubrication", it effectively reduces the meshing friction coefficient.

[0015] Visualized and controllable lubrication status: The connecting glass tube at the front of the second lubrication channel allows direct observation of the internal oil level and lubricant turbidity. Operators can determine the lubrication status without disassembling the components. Oil is added promptly when the level is below the preset mark, and the grease is replaced immediately when it is cloudy, avoiding problems such as "blind lubrication" or "undetected lubrication failure." Compared to the traditional method of "disassembling and inspecting" components, this method also avoids the impact of disassembly on component precision.

[0016] 3. Convenient maintenance design, reducing operating threshold and costs. The components simplify the traditionally complex maintenance process through modular decomposition and user-friendly structural design, significantly reducing maintenance difficulty and time costs. Quick disassembly and maintenance: The first and second lubrication channels are detachably connected by connecting blocks and bolts on the outside. The two lubrication channels can be separated by removing the bolts, directly exposing the sprocket and chain for inspection, cleaning or replacement. Compared with the traditional maintenance method that requires the entire transmission mechanism to be disassembled, the operation can be completed by a single person.

[0017] Efficient oil change procedure: Simply unscrew the threaded sealing plug at the bottom of the drain pipe to completely drain the old lubricating oil. After draining, tighten the sealing plug to add new oil through the installation sleeve. The entire oil change process does not require disassembling the lubrication channels, avoiding the reduction in lubrication effect caused by the mixing of old and new grease.

[0018] Convenient grease filling: The spring-sealing ball structure of the mounting cylinder achieves a balance between "self-sealing and convenient filling". Under normal conditions, the spring pushes the sealing ball to fit tightly with the limiting barrier ring to achieve a seal. When filling, you only need to squeeze the sealing ball through the filling nozzle to separate it from the limiting barrier ring to inject lubricating oil. After filling, the spring automatically returns to its original position and seals, without the need to remove the sealing cap and avoiding the intrusion of contaminants during the filling process. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel provided in an embodiment of this utility model; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the lubrication channel structure of a chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel provided in an embodiment of this utility model; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the second lubrication channel structure of a chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel provided in an embodiment of this utility model; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the mounting cylinder of the chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channel provided in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0020] In the attached diagram: 1. Sprocket; 2. Chain; 3. Lubrication channel; 301. First lubrication channel; 302. Second lubrication channel; 303. Connecting block; 304. Bolt; 305. Sealing strip; 306. Mounting cylinder; 307. Oil drain pipe; 308. Threaded sealing plug; 309. Limiting plate; 310. Spring; 311. Limiting rod; 312. Barrier plate; 313. Sealing ball; 314. Limiting and blocking ring; 315. Mounting groove; 316. Connecting glass tube; 4. First through cavity; 5. Second through cavity. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0022] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are schematic diagrams, not actual images. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent. To better illustrate the embodiments of this utility model, some components in the drawings may be omitted, enlarged, or reduced, and do not represent the actual dimensions of the product. It is understandable to those skilled in the art that some well-known structures and their descriptions may be omitted in the drawings.

[0023] In the accompanying drawings of this utility model, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this patent. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0024] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" or similar designation indicating the connection relationship between components should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0025] Example The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels provided in this embodiment, such as Figures 1-4As shown, it includes two sprockets 1, and a chain 2 is connected to the surface of the two sprockets 1. A lubrication channel 3 is provided on the outer side of the sprockets 1 and the chain 2. The lubrication channel 3 is used to seal and protect the sprockets 1 and the chain 2, and at the same time to hold the lubricating oil, thereby lubricating the sprockets 1 and the chain 2 and reducing the damage caused by mutual friction between the sprockets 1 and the chain 2 during use. The lubrication channel 3 includes a first lubrication channel 301 located behind the sprocket 1 and chain 2, and a second lubrication channel 302 located in front of the first lubrication channel 301 and in front of the sprocket 1 and chain 2. A first through cavity 4 is formed on the left side of the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302, and a second through cavity 5 is formed on the right side of the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302. The top of the second lubrication channel 302 is connected to an mounting cylinder 306, and the front side of the second lubrication channel 302 is connected to a connecting glass tube 316. The lubrication channel 302 is used to surround the sprocket 1 and the chain 2, and the two can be disassembled later for maintenance and replacement of the sprocket 1 and the chain 2. The first through cavity 4 and the second through cavity 5 are used to connect the connecting shaft to the two sprockets 1. The mounting cylinder 306 is used to add lubricating oil into the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302 to achieve subsequent lubrication of the sprocket 1 and the chain 2. The connecting glass tube 316 is used to export the lubricating oil inside the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302 for easy observation of the oil level.

[0026] The bottom of the second lubrication channel 302 is connected to an oil drain pipe 307, and the bottom of the oil drain pipe 307 is threadedly connected to a threaded sealing plug 308. The oil drain pipe 307 is provided to drain the lubricating oil inside the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302, and the threaded sealing plug 308 is provided to seal the oil drain pipe 307.

[0027] The first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302 are provided with mounting grooves 315 on their relatively close sides. A sealing strip 305 is provided inside the mounting groove 315. The mounting groove 315 is provided to accommodate the sealing strip 305 and to increase the sealing between the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302.

[0028] A limiting ring 314 is fixedly installed on the top of the mounting cylinder 306. A sealing ball 313 is provided inside the mounting cylinder 306 and at the bottom of the limiting ring 314. The limiting ring 314 is used to seal the top of the sealing ball 313, thereby increasing the sealing of the top of the mounting cylinder 306.

[0029] A limiting plate 309 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the mounting cylinder 306. A limiting rod 311 is inserted inside the limiting plate 309. The top of the limiting rod 311 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the sealing ball 313. A blocking plate 312 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the limiting rod 311 and below the limiting plate 309. The limiting plate 309 is used to limit the limiting rod 311. The limiting rod 311 is used to install the sealing ball 313. The blocking plate 312 is used to limit the limiting rod 311.

[0030] A spring 310 is sleeved on the outside of the limiting rod 311. The top of the spring 310 contacts the bottom of the sealing ball 313, and the bottom of the spring 310 contacts the top of the limiting plate 309. The spring 310, under the limitation of the limiting plate 309, causes the sealing ball 313 to move upward and contact the limiting barrier ring 314 to seal the mounting cylinder 306. At the same time, when lubricating oil needs to be added later, the sealing ball 313 is squeezed to make the sealing ball 313 descend relative to the limiting barrier ring 314 to add lubricating oil.

[0031] Connecting blocks 303 are fixedly installed on the outer sides of the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302. Bolts 304 are inserted inside the connecting blocks 303. The connecting blocks 303 and bolts 304 are used to connect the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302, and at the same time facilitate the removal of the first lubrication channel 301 and the second lubrication channel 302, thereby facilitating the subsequent maintenance and replacement of the sprocket 1 and the chain 2.

[0032] Working principle: 1. Initial assembly and seal formation stage: Constructing a closed lubrication space This stage achieves the encapsulation and sealing of sprockets and chains through modular assembly, laying a sealed foundation for subsequent lubrication. The specific process is as follows: Pre-assembly of core components: First, install the two sprockets 1 on the transmission end of the equipment through the connecting shaft, ensuring that the axes of the two sprockets are parallel; then, fit the chain 2 onto the surface of the two sprockets, adjust the chain tension to the preset range, and complete the basic transmission assembly of the sprockets and chain.

[0033] Lubrication channel encapsulation: The first lubrication channel 301 is attached to the rear side of the sprocket and chain, so that the connecting shaft is inserted into the first through cavity 4 on the left side and the second through cavity 5 on the right side of the first lubrication channel. The sealing strip 305 is embedded in the mounting groove 315 of the first lubrication channel. Then, the second lubrication channel 302 is fastened from the front, so that the through cavity of the second lubrication channel is precisely aligned with the connecting shaft. At this time, the sealing strip is squeezed at the joint of the two lubrication channels to form an initial seal.

[0034] Rigid fixing and locking: Align the connecting blocks 303 on the outer sides of the first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel, insert the bolts 304 into the threaded holes of the connecting blocks and tighten them, so that the two lubrication channels form a rigid connection. The sealing strip is fully deformed under the action of pre-tightening force, maximizing the sealing performance at the joint, and finally constructing a closed lubrication cavity around the sprocket and chain.

[0035] 2. Lubrication and filling stage: Spring-sealed precision oil injection The spring-sealing ball self-sealing mechanism of the mounting cylinder enables convenient filling of lubricating oil and automatic sealing after filling, preventing grease leakage. The specific principle is as follows: Initial sealing position: Under normal conditions, the spring 310 inside the mounting cylinder 306 is in a naturally extended state, and its top applies an upward thrust to the sealing ball 313, so that the sealing ball is tightly fitted with the limiting barrier ring 314 at the top of the mounting cylinder. The inner side of the limiting barrier ring has a conical structure, which forms a line contact seal with the spherical surface. At the same time, the limiting rod 311 remains vertical under the guidance of the limiting plate 309, ensuring that the sealing ball will not deviate, thus achieving a reliable seal at the top of the mounting cylinder.

[0036] Lubricating oil filling operation: When lubricating oil needs to be added, align the filling nozzle of the oil gun with the top of the mounting cylinder, apply axial pressure to squeeze the sealing ball 313, the sealing ball compresses the spring downward, and drives the limit rod to move down synchronously along the through hole of the limit plate until the sealing ball separates from the limit barrier ring, forming a filling channel; at this time, inject the lubricating oil through the oil gun, and the grease flows into the closed cavity formed by the first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel through the bottom of the mounting cylinder until the lubricating oil level reaches the preset height.

[0037] Automatic sealing after filling: After the pressure of the filling gun is removed, the spring pushes the sealing ball upward under the action of elastic restoring force until the sealing ball is in contact with the limit stop ring again, and automatically restores the sealing state. The stop plate 312 at the bottom of the limit rod can limit the maximum rising height of the limit rod, avoid the sealing ball from excessively squeezing the limit stop ring and causing damage, and at the same time ensure the contact accuracy of the sealing surface.

[0038] 3. Operational lubrication stage: continuous lubrication within the enclosed cavity. When the equipment is running, the transmission motion of the sprocket and chain drives the flow of lubricating oil, achieving continuous lubrication and protection of the meshing area. The core principle is as follows: Immersion lubrication coverage: When the equipment drives the sprocket 1 to rotate, the chain 2 will rotate accordingly. Since the sprocket and chain are completely enclosed in a closed cavity filled with lubricating oil, the chain pins, sleeves and sprocket teeth are directly immersed in the lubricating oil during operation. Each meshing action can fully fill the meshing gap with lubricating oil, forming a uniform oil film, effectively isolating the metal contact surface and reducing the coefficient of friction.

[0039] Centrifugal force-assisted lubrication: The centrifugal force generated when the sprocket rotates at high speed drives the lubricating oil in the cavity to form a circulation, so that the lubricating oil circulates in the first lubrication channel and the second lubrication channel. On the one hand, it can continuously deliver fresh lubricating oil to the meshing area, and on the other hand, it can carry away the tiny wear debris generated by meshing to avoid abrasive wear. At the same time, the circulating lubricating oil can cool the sprocket and chain, reducing the temperature rise caused by friction.

[0040] Full-process sealing protection: During operation, the sealing strip 305 at the joint of the two lubrication channels is always in a compressed state, which can prevent external dust and water stains from entering. The sealing ball-spring mechanism of the installation cylinder seals more tightly under the action of centrifugal force, avoiding lubricating oil leakage and ensuring that the amount of lubricating oil in the closed cavity is stable for a long time, achieving the effect of "one-time filling and long-term lubrication".

[0041] 4. Lubrication Condition Monitoring Stage: Visualizing Oil Levels and Judging Oil Quality Real-time monitoring of lubrication status is achieved through a connecting glass tube, allowing for the assessment of oil level and quality without disassembling components. The specific principle is as follows: Real-time oil level display: The connecting glass tube 316 on the front side of the second lubrication channel 302 is directly connected to the lubricating oil in the closed cavity. According to the principle of communicating vessels, the oil level in the glass tube is completely consistent with the oil level in the cavity. The operator can intuitively judge whether the lubricating oil is within the normal range by observing the scale line on the glass tube. When the oil level is lower than the minimum scale, add oil in time.

[0042] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present utility model and are not intended to limit the implementation methods and protection scope of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art should realize that any equivalent substitutions and obvious changes made based on the description and illustrations of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A chain and sprocket assembly with a lubrication channel, characterized in that, It includes two sprockets (1), and a chain (2) is connected to the surface of the two sprockets (1). Lubrication channels (3) are provided on the outer sides of the sprockets (1) and the chain (2). The lubrication channel (3) includes a first lubrication channel (301) located behind the sprocket (1) and the chain (2) and a second lubrication channel (302) located in front of the first lubrication channel (301) and in front of the sprocket (1) and the chain (2). A first through cavity (4) is provided on the left side of the first lubrication channel (301) and the second lubrication channel (302), and a second through cavity (5) is provided on the right side of the first lubrication channel (301) and the second lubrication channel (302). An installation cylinder (306) is connected to the top of the second lubrication channel (302), and a connecting glass tube (316) is connected to the front side of the second lubrication channel (302).

2. The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the second lubrication channel (302) is connected to an oil drain pipe (307), and the bottom of the oil drain pipe (307) is threadedly connected to a threaded sealing plug (308).

3. The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first lubrication channel (301) and the second lubrication channel (302) are provided with mounting grooves (315) on their relatively close sides, and a sealing strip (305) is provided inside the mounting groove (315).

4. The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels according to claim 1, characterized in that, A limit stop ring (314) is fixedly installed on the top of the mounting cylinder (306), and a sealing ball (313) is provided inside the mounting cylinder (306) and at the bottom of the limit stop ring (314).

5. The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels according to claim 4, characterized in that, A limiting plate (309) is fixedly installed at the bottom of the mounting cylinder (306). A limiting rod (311) is inserted inside the limiting plate (309). The top of the limiting rod (311) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the sealing ball (313). A barrier plate (312) is fixedly installed at the bottom of the limiting rod (311) and below the limiting plate (309).

6. The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels according to claim 5, characterized in that, A spring (310) is sleeved on the outside of the limiting rod (311). The top of the spring (310) contacts the bottom of the sealing ball (313), and the bottom of the spring (310) contacts the top of the limiting plate (309).

7. The chain and sprocket assembly with lubrication channels according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, A connecting block (303) is fixedly installed on the outer side of both the first lubrication channel (301) and the second lubrication channel (302), and a bolt (304) is inserted inside the connecting block (303).