Planetary transmission with at least one wear-reducing force-lockingly / frictionally mounted shaft, and method and use

Abstract

The invention relates to a planetary transmission (100) comprising at least one shaft (101) and at least one shaft holder (103) for supporting the shaft, wherein the shaft is mounted in at least one axial section (X1, X2) in the shaft holder, wherein the shaft (101) is provided with at least one wear-reducing surface and is force-lockingly / frictionally mounted against axial displacement in the shaft holder by means of at least one structure surface section (10.1). The invention also relates to wear-reducing shafts with at least one structured surface section for a planetary transmission of this type. The invention further relates to corresponding methods and uses.

Description

[0001] Planetary gear with at least one wear-reducing non-positively / frictionally mounted axle and method and use

[0002] Description

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention relates to a planetary gear unit comprising at least one axle and at least one axle mount for supporting the axle. The axle is mounted (axially) fixedly in at least one axial section in the axle mount, optionally in two axial sections, in particular at each free end of the axle. The axle is equipped with a wear-reducing surface, in particular with the planetary gear unit or comprising at least one planetary gear unit. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to wear-reducing axles with at least one structured surface for such an industrial gear unit.

[0005] DE 10 2015 007 470 A1 describes various types of laser surface structuring or texturing for gears. In particular, a transverse compression bond and a longitudinal compression bond are described. Classic torque-transmitting shaft-hub connections are mentioned as an application.

[0006] WO 2005 / 015057 A1 describes a press fit or a force-locking connection for planetary gears, via which the planetary axes are seated in the planet carrier.

[0007] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0008] High power densities in gears such as planetary gears, industrial gears,

[0009] Wind turbine gearboxes and drive trains require sufficient rigidity, particularly of the torque-carrying components as well as the corresponding fastenings and clamping systems. Especially in planetary gearboxes, axial clamping on planetary carriers with multi-planetary gears tends to cause adverse micro-movements under load, especially when sufficient pressure is not reached, potentially causing noticeably increased wear. It has now been recognized that such local micro-movements (and the associated wear) are becoming increasingly likely due to a power-density-induced loss of stiffness in surrounding components. Accordingly, there is great interest in being able to prevent these micro-movements as completely as possible, particularly in industrial gearboxes designed for long operating periods in the high-performance range.

[0010] To date, axle clamping has been achieved in this respect by extending the clamping length (particularly when this entails more disadvantageous installation space requirements) and / or by increasing the fit and thus increasing pressure in the contact area between the axle and the axle mount (particularly the bore). However, depending on the type of load, the areas around the axle clamping can deform elastically, particularly in a planetary carrier. This has a potentially very negative effect, particularly on thin-walled components, and in particular on adjacent bearing seats. Another disadvantage is a self-reinforcing negative effect from an increasingly loose or widening press fit, which subsequently leads to even greater displacements or

[0011] This leads to relative movement in the contact area, which in turn generates more material or abrasion due to frictional wear. Particles released by wear potentially lead to significant or even greater secondary damage, for example, due to abrasion, which can significantly reduce the service life of the gearbox.

[0012] There is therefore great interest in minimizing wear, particularly in connection with the characteristics of industrial gears described here, especially in planetary gears, particularly under comparatively high or dynamic loads, such as in drive trains of wind turbines.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The object of the present invention is to demonstrate measures by which a noticeable reduction in wear can be ensured at an interface between the axle and the axle mount in planetary gears, particularly while minimizing any resulting design disadvantages regarding the overall gear design. In particular, the object is also to provide an axially fixed bearing at the axle / axle mount interface in planetary gears for high-load torque transmission or, if necessary, for a particularly high surface pressure, while ensuring the widest possible range of usability in different gear types.

[0015] The object is achieved by a planetary gear having the features of claim 1, by an axle manufactured according to the features of the corresponding independent method claim, and by corresponding uses according to the features of the corresponding independent use claim. Preferred embodiments are specified in the subclaims and in the following description, each of which can represent an aspect of the invention, individually or in combination with one another. If a feature is presented in combination with another feature, this only serves to simplify the presentation of the invention and is in no way intended to imply that this feature cannot also be a further development of the invention without the other feature.

[0016] One aspect of the invention relates to a particularly wear-reducing axle for supporting at least one transmission component, e.g., planetary gears in a planetary gear. A planetary gear is provided, comprising at least one axle and at least one axle mount for fixed or axially fixed mounting of the axle, in particular the axle of a planetary gear, wherein the axle is mounted in at least one axial section in the axle mount; wherein the axle is mounted in the axle mount by means of at least one structured surface section in a force-locking / frictional manner to prevent axial displacement, wherein the axle and the axle mount are in direct contact.

[0017] According to the invention, it is therefore proposed to provide a surface structuring for an axle clamping which is structured in such a way that sufficient purely force-fitting axial fixation can be ensured with direct contact between the axle and the axle mount. This also enables a leaner design concept, e.g., with regard to any axial locking elements that are no longer necessarily required. In other words, the surface structuring measure according to the invention also enables a lean transmission design that can be advantageously implemented, particularly in the high power range, with a minimized number of components in or for the axle seat. A fixed or axially fixed bearing is to be understood in particular as a bearing or fastening in which no significant torques need to be transmitted or in which a defined axial positioning of the contact partners is of primary importance.It is an axial fixation without torque transmission function or without any significant torque transmission function.

[0018] The measure according to the invention also leads to an improvement in assembly (in particular without an even greater widening of the bore / axle mount than has previously been necessary in many applications), particularly since the required fits do not increase any further (do not become higher). In contrast to structuring the axle bore, it has proven more advantageous and technically more sensible in many applications, particularly with regard to the manufacturing process, to use the easier-to-handle axle to provide a surface structuring. The structuring can be realized on different materials and material combinations, so that the present invention can be implemented regardless of any desired changes to the material partners (material pairings). Optionally, an anti-twist device can also be dispensed with, particularly for cost reasons.However, the reference of the present invention to the axle as a structured component does not exclude the possibility that further components are / will be provided with structured surfaces.

[0019] Targeted (laser) structuring in at least one axial section of the axle in the contact area with the axle mount (e.g. planet carrier) enables an increase in the coefficient of friction (or static friction coefficient), particularly in the case of an axle / bore fit, which can effectively counteract local micro-movements and thus uncontrolled frictional wear. Such an increase in the coefficient of friction also makes it possible to increase the overall rigidity, particularly in an assembly comprising planet carrier and planetary axles, so that deformation of the carrier assembly under load can be noticeably reduced. The surface structure described here can be generated or provided either over the entire circumference or specifically optimized at local critical transition areas of the axle in the corresponding axial section. For example, a line density and / or orientation of the structure and / or intensity and shape of the structure can be individualized.Laser structuring can create a non-removable, martensitic surface structure that does not, or only insignificantly, affect the required tolerances of the axle (e.g., tolerances previously achieved through precision machining), because shaping in the sense of a noticeable geometric change to the surface contour is not performed. For example, laser structuring is provided over the entire circumference of the axle and / or is divided into zones axially in the direction of loading and inhibition, with a correspondingly stronger, weaker, inhibiting, or reduced effect in the joining direction.

[0020] It has been shown that the structuring of the axle surface according to the invention can also be advantageously combined with other, particularly upstream, manufacturing steps, in particular for serial production of comparatively large quantities. For example, the same systems and machines can be used, at least in part, for laser structuring of the axle surfaces (contacting surface areas of the axle) and for applying plain bearing layers (e.g., on coated plain bearing axle sections of planetary axles) (in particular, laser welding systems for laser deposition welding in combination with laser structuring). This also allows the manufacturing process of the respective axle to be optimized in terms of time and cost, for example, by noticeably reducing / avoiding logistics and transport costs.Where structuring is mentioned here, reference is primarily made to laser structuring; however, the inventive concept can also be implemented with other / alternative structuring methods. In this respect, the invention also encompasses alternative partial / needs-based structures that are optimized for the type / shape of the load being applied to the respective surface.

[0021] In principle, it is possible to structure both the axle and the axle mount according to the measures described here. Preferably, the structuring is provided at least on the axle and optionally also in the axle mount; it is particularly advantageous for the axle to be made of a significantly harder material than the axle mount; this means that the axially fixed connection can then be particularly effective even if the axle mount is not structured (further effort can be saved in this respect). The structure embossed into the axle surface can be anchored particularly effectively in the axle mount (particularly in the sense of being pressed into a relatively softer contact partner). The axle can be designed to be either cylindrical or, for example, conical in the respective contact area.

[0022] Last but not least, the present invention enables targeted local optimization of interfaces subject to comparatively high mechanical stress, in particular by providing a contact surface for frictional engagement (static friction) in at least one axial section that can be customized to a relatively high degree thanks to (laser) structuring. Such axial clamping also offers numerous other, including indirect, advantages, such as a comparatively lean / cost-effective manufacturing approach involving the use of lasers, particularly via a multi-stage manufacturing process including laser (cladding) welding. Particularly advantageous areas of application also arise, for example, for wind turbine generator gearboxes with plain bearings, for planetary gear units, and numerous other industrial applications.

[0023] The fixed or axially fixed bearing can advantageously be achieved by (laser) structuring only one of the contact partners; the force-locking surface structure provides significant advantages, particularly on the axle, also with regard to manufacturing costs and assembly. It has also been shown, especially with planetary gears, that the weaker and therefore more wear-prone component (or a particularly weak component) is usually the axle mount (or a corresponding planet carrier bore), which, due to the dimensions of the axle mount or the planet carrier and its properties (e.g.

[0024] The material composition (e.g., relatively soft material, such as cast material) makes it difficult to improve wear protection. In this respect, too, the invention makes it possible to overcome previous difficulties.

[0025] In other words, the invention is also based on the concept of providing an axle which can ensure wear protection in the area of ​​an axle mount, e.g. a (planetary) carrier bore, in a customizable and application-specific manner, namely by specifying a certain surface structure, for example in conjunction with a certain material hardness and / or normal force or fit. The axle improves wear resistance, especially in the area of ​​at least one clamping point of the axle, largely independently of the base material. The axle can also consist of one or more layers of different materials. Hard layers offer advantageously pronounced wear protection, while soft layers can primarily ensure elastic deformation, in particular without flowing.In this respect, a suitably selected material combination can also enable advantageous functional integration into a single machine element (multiple functions). The specialist can individually determine for each application, particularly depending on the materials of the axle and mount, which hardness ranges are considered relatively hard and relatively soft.

[0026] The axle can be frictionally engaged / frictionally engaged, preferably on two axial sections, through / due to appropriate (laser) structuring, effectively counteracting axial displacement from the axle bore (or a corresponding axial relative movement) and uncontrolled frictional wear (optionally, a material-to-material fixation can also be provided as an additional safeguard, without this safeguard having to bear the high force flow). In at least one axial section, a slightly conical geometry can also be selected. The (laser) structuring can also create a non-removable (non-recoverable), comparatively hard surface structure, which does not impair, or at most only insignificantly impairs, the tolerances of the axle previously usually achieved through precision machining (or the tolerances required for a particular application).

[0027] Each of the structuring types described here can be divided into zones, optionally circumferentially and / or axially in the direction of load and movement, and can be designed, configured, or manufactured accordingly to have a stronger, weaker, inhibiting, or reduced effect in the joining direction. Within these zones, in particular, a line density, the direction of the structure, and / or the intensity and shape of the (laser) structure can be adapted to the specific characteristics and requirements of the respective axis contact. In this respect, the present invention also provides a comparatively high degree of variability. The axis can also be thickened or tapered on one side, in particular for the purpose of compensating for positional tolerances of the axis mounts (or support bores) through orientation during assembly. This also leads to improved load-bearing capacities.In this respect, the present invention also provides a technically easily implementable solution for a variety of assembly situations. The axle mount or support bore can be designed either cylindrical, straight, conical, or spherical, or optionally with grooves for axial and / or tangential securing. The axle mount or an axle seat, which can also be optionally structured, can preferably be designed cylindrically or conically, helically, or wave-shaped, particularly with regard to a design that is self-locking against rotation. Materials with similar properties can also be combined (e.g., with regard to microstructure, hardness). The present invention can be implemented both for new products and in connection with service applications.

[0028] It has been shown that the present invention can also ensure the following advantages: Compared to previous pairings without a (laser) structured surface optimized for frictional engagement, there is no uncontrolled initial conditioning of the axial contact. This also results in noticeably less material ingress into the oil and transmission. In particular, it is easier to avoid work-hardened particles that could damage the bearings or gearing. The improved clamping also reduces radial and axial deformations of the planet carrier, especially in a planetary gear, for example, which in turn reduces micro-movement in the axial contact and thus contributes to reducing frictional wear. Furthermore, structural components can now be dimensioned more easily and weight-optimized.The increased rigidity improves the load-bearing capacity of the assembly, particularly enabling more efficient dimensioning of the gearing and bearings. These measures are also directly related to increases in power density.

[0029] The terms “force-locking” and, in a narrower sense, “frictional” or “static frictional” (with reference to connections without permissible relative movement) are to be understood here in particular as meaning a fixed connection without the requirement of specific shaping or geometric irregularities such as edges or steps or noticeable grooves or sawtooth profiles or the like, whereby this mode of action can also be realized here in particular by reference to completely flat / level surfaces (in particular cylindrical or conical outer surfaces), on which no steps or edges in the geometric sense have to be present, but which can ensure adhesion / fixation in accordance with a coefficient of static friction defined by the structuring.The frictional connection can be ensured depending on a specific normal force acting on the contact surfaces (whereas in the case of a positive connection, such a normal force is / would not necessarily be required). The present disclosure is also to be understood in such a way that, when referring to "frictional connection," the corresponding surface is intended, designed, or configured for a substantially frictional connection. In contrast, a "positive connection" would be understood to mean a connection that is essentially based on a positive connection in the sense of a mechanical interlocking, i.e., based on geometric conditions of the respective surface, which, due to their shape alone, cause the contact partners to anchor or adhere to one another even when no normal force is acting.

[0030] An "industrial gearbox" is generally understood to mean a gear device for industrial applications, for example in the form of a (bevel) spur gear or planetary gear, worm extruder gear, marine gear, generator gear, excavator gear, mill gear, or chassis gear, each with at least one gear stage. For example, an industrial gearbox described here comprises at least one planetary gear stage. If, according to the present disclosure, reference is made to an axle mount with regard to the industrial gearbox, this also refers, in the case of planetary carriers, in particular to axle bores in the planetary carrier. However, regardless of the gearbox type, the present disclosure generally refers to axle mounts of any design.

[0031] A fixed or axially fixed bearing arrangement is understood in particular to mean a bearing arrangement / fastening arrangement in which no significant torques need to be transmitted or in which an axially fixed positioning of the contact partners is of primary importance. The axis is arranged in the axis holder in a predefined axial desired position and thereby defines, for example, an axis of rotation for a planetary gear guided by a planet carrier. The term "axially fixed" can therefore also encompass a rotationally fixed arrangement; according to the present disclosure, the term "axially fixed" is used because the primary task for the envisaged applications is to minimize axial relative movements. Nevertheless, the advantages described here in connection with the axially fixed arrangement can also be further developed through improved torsional stability associated with the measures according to the invention.

[0032] Personified terms, unless formulated in the neuter form, can refer to all genders within the scope of this disclosure. Any English-language expressions or abbreviations used herein are standard industry terms and are familiar to those skilled in the art in English. Any German-language terms used or otherwise synonymous with these or other terms can be indicated here in brackets for the sake of completeness, or vice versa. Individual exemplary embodiments are discussed in more detail below; the feature combinations described below can be combined with one another unless explicitly negated.

[0033] According to one exemplary embodiment, the axle has a non-positively acting, structured outer surface section in at least one cylindrical surface section, which rests in the axle mount in a purely non-positively fixed / axially fixed manner, particularly in the form of a fit, such that a normal force acting between the axle and the axle mount in the corresponding surface section reduces or prevents axial relative movement (subcritically). This also promotes very safe and robust long-term behavior, not least thanks to the reduced number of components, e.g., in conjunction with an axial locking device.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the structured surface for force-locking support in the axial direction is provided in at least one axial section with a force-locking structured surface structure with a higher coefficient of static friction, particularly compared to the other non-machined surface sections of the axle or axle mount, in particular a coefficient of static friction of at least 0.5 (particularly for metallic material pairings / contact partners, based on a dry reference value). This also enables a cost-optimized design, particularly in the case where different axial sections of the axle are intended to fulfill different functions (e.g., a plain bearing function).

[0035] According to one embodiment, the at least one laser-structured surface section varies over the circumference or in the circumferential direction (in particular in geometric terms).

[0036] According to one embodiment, the at least one (laser-) structured surface section is formed completely circumferentially in the corresponding axial section on the lateral surface of the axle, in particular at one of the ends of the axle, for example, with an axial catch in the range of 30 to 70% of the thickness of the axle. This also promotes a robust design with regard to different types of force application, i.e., not only in the axial direction, but also with regard to the maximum possible frictional anchoring on the available contact surface. This can also promote the widest possible distribution of force.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the structured, in particular laser-structured, surface is provided on at least one side of a wheel mounted around the axle.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the laser-structured surface is formed on both sides of a gear (in particular a planetary gear) mounted around the axle or on a bearing surface provided for this purpose. Laser structuring on both sides, particularly in the area of ​​both ends of the axle, can also promote particularly precise alignment and stable mounting of the axle, even with a very short overall length or when only limited installation space is available.

[0039] According to one embodiment, a / the structuring of the structured surface section is interrupted in individual segments of the structured surface section.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the axle is designed to be relatively harder, at least in the radially outer region of the contacting surface or in the respective axial section, or consists of a relatively harder material (or material-Z-material combination) than the axle mount, at least in the corresponding contact area. This can also advantageously result in an anchoring effect of the structure / laser structure on the surface of the axle mount, particularly under large normal forces. This design of the hardness levels also provides advantages in particular when a certain type of post-processing or assembly of the axle mount is not desired, is not possible, or should be completely dispensed with.

[0041] According to one exemplary embodiment, a line density and / or direction of the structure and / or intensity and shape of the structure is individualized within at least one surface section of the axis, in particular in such a way that (depending on the installation situation and in particular also depending on the normal force or depending on the type of fit of the contact partners) a static friction coefficient of at least 0.5 (at least partially) is ensured in the axial direction over the structured surface section. The present invention enables individualization at least with regard to these parameters in a comparatively simple manner, with great flexibility / variability, in particular also when integrating a (laser) structuring process into a sequence of further manufacturing steps.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the industrial gear unit is designed as a planetary gear unit, wherein an axle mount is provided in a planetary carrier of the planetary gear unit, in particular in the form of a planetary carrier bore, and wherein the axle, as a planetary axle, is arranged on the planetary carrier in a form-fitting manner to prevent axial relative movement and has a wear-reducing effect there. The advantages described here become particularly noticeable when the axles described here are used in planetary gear units, in particular in highly loaded drive trains. The number of axles can be individually adapted depending on the number of planetary gears. The design of the axle(s) described here can also be implemented at other locations (installation points) within the planetary gear unit.

[0043] For example, the planetary gear is installed in a drive train of a wind turbine or is configured for this purpose.

[0044] According to one exemplary embodiment, the respective axis is mounted in two axial sections in the axis holder (axially fixed), optionally with cylindrical or conical contact surfaces, whereby the laser-structured surface in the two axial sections has either the same or a different finish. Depending on the desired type of assembly or fit, the structure / laser structure described here can also be provided on an inclined surface, e.g. with a conical geometry. This also increases variability and also facilitates implementation with potentially additional machine elements that may be installed. Alternatively, the respective axis is mounted in two axial sections in the axis holder, fixed oraxially fixed, namely with a cylindrical contact surface on the one hand and a conical contact surface on the other, wherein the laser-structured surface has a different finish in the two axial sections, in particular depending on the type of assembly and / or the cylindrical or conical geometry of the corresponding axle section. This also enables even greater customization and more specific consideration of special features such as a specific installation situation or the interaction with other machine elements. One aspect further relates to a manufacturing method, in particular for the integration of the process step(s) of laser structuring into further manufacturing steps of an axle.The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a method according to the corresponding independent method claim, namely by a method for producing a wear-reducing axle for use in an industrial gearbox in at least one axle mount for fixed or axially fixed mounting of the axle in the axle mount, in particular for use on a planet carrier of a planetary gearbox, wherein a laser-structured surface is introduced into at least one axial surface section (axial section) of the axle, which is designed for non-positive support in the axle mount against axial displacement, in particular by means of a laser welding system which is further also designed for laser welding / laser deposition welding, in particular in combination with the formation of at least one plain bearing section in a further axial section of the axle, in particular of an axle previously described above.This results in the advantages mentioned above, in particular with regard to minimized costs / production effort as well as greater variation options or also with regard to the dispensability of any additional machine elements.

[0045] According to one embodiment, a substantially force-fitting surface is introduced into at least one surface section of the axis by at least one of the following laser structuring measures, wherein the laser-structured surface is preferably generated as a function of at least one predefined / predefinable specific elevation and / or density parameter, in particular in a wave-like or serpentine structure or in a scale-like structure (in each case symmetrical or asymmetrical): laser structuring of a first axial surface section, in particular completely around the axis, laser structuring of at least two axial surface sections, in particular with variation of the orientation of the structure in at least two spatial directions, laser structuring with an axially and / or rotationally moving axis, laser structuring with a fixed axis.These variation options also enable a high degree of customization and comparatively flexible coordination with any upstream and / or downstream process steps, particularly on the same production line. Laser structuring can also be performed following laser deposition welding and / or following the formation of at least one plain bearing section, particularly in / using the same laser system or in / using the same production line comprising at least one laser system.

[0046] Preferably, a first structure / laser structure is introduced into a first axial section and a second structure / laser structure is introduced into a second axial section, wherein the first and second structure / laser structures have different parameters or were introduced with different laser parameters. This enables optimization of the respective force-locking contact, e.g., with regard to the magnitude or type of prevailing forces / torques / loads. This also favors an individually optimized axle fit, especially for planetary gears.

[0047] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a wear-reducing axle for a planetary gear comprising an axle mount for supporting the axle, wherein the axle is produced by at least one of the following steps: providing a basic shape of a preferably one-piece base body of the axle, in particular after laser deposition welding or following machining of at least one plain bearing section of the axle, in particular in / by means of the same laser system,Introducing at least one structured surface designed for force-locking support against axial relative movement in at least one axial section of the axis by laser structuring, in particular according to at least one of the following laser structuring measures, in particular depending on at least one predefined / predefinable specific elevation and / or density parameter: Laser structuring of a first axial surface section, in particular completely on the axis, Laser structuring of at least two axial surface sections, in particular with variation of the orientation of the structure in at least two spatial directions, Laser structuring with an axially and / or rotationally moving axis,Laser structuring with a fixed axis; wherein the axis is manufactured in particular by a method previously described above and is particularly designed according to the features of one of the axes previously described above. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, particularly with regard to efficient provision of the axes while still allowing for a high degree of customization of the respective design of the axis(es).

[0048] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by using a plurality of wear-reducing axes in a planetary gear with at least one planetary gear stage in an axle holder of a planet carrier for supporting the axes, wherein the respective axle with at least one outer jacket surface section designed for frictional connection, preferably with two outer jacket surface sections on both sides of a plain bearing surface, with a frictionally acting laser-structured frictional connection structure, comes into contact with the axle holder in a frictional connection without form-fitting contours in the axle holder, directly contacting the jacket surface, that a coefficient of friction (orA coefficient of static friction greater than 0.5 is ensured, in particular by ensuring that the respective axle and the axle mount form a fit with a predefined normal force, in particular by using the large number of wear-reducing axles for existing and installed transmission components, in particular by using the axles described above. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, particularly with regard to efficient / effective functional integration into the axle for long-term, robust operation even under high dynamic loads.

[0049] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by using at least one wear-reducing axle in an industrial gearbox in an axle holder for supporting the axle, in particular in each case as planetary axles in a planet carrier of a planetary gearbox, wherein the axle has a force-locking laser-structured structure in two outer surface sections on an outer surface designed for force-locking, which are / are arranged in the axle holder in a force-frictional manner, wherein a first structure / laser structure is introduced in the first outer surface section and a second structure / laser structure is introduced in the further outer surface section, wherein the first and second structure / laser structure have different (shaping) parameters ordiffer structurally from one another, with the axle preferably being thermally introduced into the axle mount, in particular with the axle also comprising at least one plain bearing surface for a planetary gear, in particular with the corresponding use of the axles described above. This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, in particular with regard to a very specifically optimized frictional connection at the respective contact bearing point without the need for additional form-fitting.

[0050] Summary: The present invention relates to an industrial gear unit having at least one axle and at least one axle mount for fixed / axially fixed mounting of the axle, wherein the axle is mounted in at least one axial section in the axle mount; wherein the axle is equipped with at least one wear-reducing surface and is mounted in the axle mount in a force-locking / friction-locking manner against axial displacement by means of at least one laser-structured surface section, in particular with the industrial gear unit configured as a planetary gear unit or comprising at least one planetary gear stage. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to wear-reducing axles having at least one laser-structured surface section for such industrial gear units. Furthermore, the present invention relates to corresponding methods and uses.

[0051] SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

[0052] The following drawing figures describe the invention in more detail using preferred exemplary embodiments. The features presented below can represent an aspect of the invention both individually and in combination. Reference numbers not explicitly described in a particular drawing figure refer to the other drawing figures. They each show, in schematic representations: Figure 1 shows a sectional side view of components of a planetary gear according to one exemplary embodiment;

[0053] Figure 2 shows a perspective detailed view of a wear-reducing axle for use in a planetary gear according to embodiments;

[0054] Figure 3 shows individual steps of a method for producing a wear-reducing axle according to embodiments;

[0055] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0056] The invention will first be explained with general reference to all reference numerals and figures. Special features or individual aspects of the present invention, or aspects that are clearly visible / depictable in the respective figure, will be addressed individually in connection with the respective figure.

[0057] Provided is a planetary gear 100 comprising at least one axis 101 (in particular a planetary axis) mounted in an axial direction (x-)axially fixed in an axis receptacle 103 (e.g., cast bore in the planet carrier, planet carrier bore), said axis having a laser structuring 10, which is provided, for example, in two axial sections XI, X2 of the axis, in particular at the respective axis end. The structuring / laser structuring 10 comprises at least one (laser-)structured surface(s) 10.1 on at least one outer circumferential surface of the axis (the axis can optionally have different diameters at different axial sections and thus also have a plurality of outer circumferential surfaces). Preferably, both a first and a second non-positively effective outer circumferential surface section 10.1a, 10.1b are provided, wherein the structure / laser structure can also be individually designed in each case.

[0058] By means of the laser-structured contact surface(s), particularly in conjunction with a comparatively high normal force Fn, an axially rigid, force-locking (in particular, exclusively force-locking / frictional) connection can be provided without the need for a positive connection between the axle and the axle mount, particularly with an advantageously robust, constant action even over a long operating period. The normal force Fn acts in the structured surface section and is essentially oriented in the radial direction (r). It can be predefined relatively precisely, for example, by a specific type of assembly and / or by a specific fit, and can be individually optimized for the respective application and the material selection made (material pairing of axle, axle mount).

[0059] The planetary gear 100 comprises at least one planet carrier 105, on which the respective axle holder 103 is formed, wherein by means of the planet carrier 105 the planet gears 107, which are guided in a planetary ring gear 109, are mounted around the axles 101.

[0060] In a configuration as a planetary gear (or comprising at least one planetary gear stage), the axes preferably each have at least one plain bearing section 101.1 arranged between or adjacent to the laser-structured surface(s). For this purpose, a plain bearing section X3 (further axial section) can be provided on the respective axis.

[0061] The respective axle can also be characterized by individual steps of a manufacturing process, in particular: Step S1 Providing a basic shape or a base body of the axle (whereby this step can also include the definition of the basic geometric shape and / or a material selection and optionally also a tempering or hardening of the material or individual surface layers or plies); Step S2 Laser (cladding) welding of the axle and / or forming at least one plain bearing section on the axle; Step S3 Introducing at least one force-fitting surface structure on the axle by means of / by laser structuring, in particular in manufacturing connection with step S2; Step S4 Assembly of the axle, for example by applying a thermal process or pressing or the like.It has been shown that steps S2 and S3 can be advantageously integrated together into a common manufacturing process on a laser system 200 with laser welding device.

[0062] In the following, special features of the invention are explained with reference to individual figures or embodiments.

[0063] Fig. 1 shows an exemplary application / use of the axle 101 according to the invention, with reference to a planet carrier 105 with axle holder 103 and planetary axles 101 each axially fixedly mounted thereon in one or two axial sections. The respective planet gear 107 is held in a predefined axial position by means of the planet carrier 105 and is guided in rotation in the planetary ring gear 109. The following figures show different exemplary embodiments which can, for example, also be implemented in a transmission or an installation situation as shown in Fig. 1, optionally at one or both axle ends (axial sections) or contact areas between the axle and axle holder. As already explained above, the installation situation can also be selected differently, for example at a different location or on a different axle or in a different type of transmission.

[0064] Fig. 2 shows an axle 101 with force-locking laser-structured surfaces 10.1a, 10.1b in two axial sections corresponding to the contact areas with the axle mount. Slide bearing sections 101.1 (or a single slide bearing section) are provided between the laser-structured surfaces.

[0065] The laser structuring step can be combined with a process step involving laser deposition welding on the same system. Using a laser welding system, the cylindrical (or conical) contact areas of the axle and axle mount (i.e., the axle clamps) can be laser-structured (without material feed or weld metal feed) to create a surface structure that permanently ensures friction values ​​of >0.5. The invention is also based on the concept of minimizing axial movement in the axial contact by supporting the axle(s) and increasing torsional rigidity. In this respect, unwanted relative movement of the respective axes, particularly with regard to cyclical axial inward and outward movement, can be significantly prevented thanks to the laser-structured surface(s).The (non-wearing) (laser) structure, combined with the tightest possible fit, can also create a bearing, contact, or connection, which can also be described with the English term "bonded" (bearing or direct contact between the axle and axle mount). A usable / practically relevant (relatively high) friction coefficient for the design of the industrial gearbox or at least other directly affected machine / gearbox elements is set at 0.8, for example. Bachmann can set a (theoretical) friction coefficient that is reasonable for the design, depending on design details as well as the number and strength of the respective axle(s).

[0066] Fig. 3 schematically shows individual steps of a manufacturing method for an axle described here, namely: Step S1: Providing a basic shape or a base body of the axle; Step S2: Laser (cladding) welding of the axle and / or forming at least one plain bearing section on the axle; Step S3: Introducing at least one force-fitting surface structure on the axle by means of / by laser structuring; Step S4: Assembly of the axle. Steps S2 and S3 can optionally be carried out together in an integrated process on a laser system 200 with laser welding equipment (or a corresponding production line). The manufacturing method can optionally comprise steps S1 to S3 or all steps S1 to S4, depending on whether the manufacture / provision concerns only the individual axles 101 or the entire corresponding industrial gearbox 100.

[0067] List of reference symbols

[0068] 10 Laser structuring

[0069] 10. 1 laser-structured surface(s) on outer surface

[0070] 10. la first force-fitting outer surface section

[0071] 10.1b second / further force-locking outer surface section

[0072] 20 axially fixed force-locking connection between axle and axle mount

[0073] 100 industrial gearboxes

[0074] 101 Axis, especially planetary axis

[0075] 101.1 Plain bearing section or bearing surface for planetary gear

[0076] 103 Axle mount, e.g. cast bore, especially planet carrier bore

[0077] 105 planet carrier

[0078] 107 Planet or planetary gear

[0079] 109 Planetary ring gear with internal teeth

[0080] 200 laser system with laser welding device

[0081] Fn Normal force in the structured surface section

[0082] 51 Providing a basic shape or a basic body of the respective axis

[0083] 52 Laser (deposition) welding and / or forming at least one plain bearing section

[0084] 53 Introduction of a force-locking structure by means of / by laser structuring

[0085] 54 Assembly of the axle

[0086] XI first axial section

[0087] X2 second axial section

[0088] X3 Plain bearing section (further axial section) x axial direction r radial direction

Claims

Patent claims 1. Planetary gear (100), comprising at least one axle (101) and at least one axle mount (103) for fixedly supporting the axle, in particular the axle of a planetary gear, wherein the axle is mounted in at least one axial section (XI, X2) in the axle mount; characterized in that the axle (101) is mounted in the axle mount in a force-locking / friction-locking manner against axial displacement by means of at least one structured, in particular laser-structured, surface section (10.1), wherein the axle (101) and the axle mount (103) are direct contact partners.

2. Planetary gear (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the axis (101) has, in at least one cylindrical surface section, a non-positively acting structured, in particular laser-structured, outer circumferential surface section (10.1a, 10.1b), which comes to rest in the axis holder (103) in a purely non-positive manner, in particular in the manner of a fit, such that a / the normal force (Fn) acting between the axis and the axis holder in the corresponding surface section reduces a relative movement.

3. Planetary gear (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the structured, in particular laser-structured surface (10.1) is provided for non-positive support in the axial direction in at least one axial section (XI, X2) with a non-positively acting structured, in particular laser-structured surface structure with an increased static friction coefficient, in particular a static friction coefficient of at least 0.

5.

4. Planetary gear (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one structured, in particular laser-structured, surface section (10.1) varies over the circumference.

5. Planetary gear (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structured, in particular laser-structured surface (10.1) is provided on at least one side of a wheel (107) mounted around the axle; or wherein the structured, in particular a laser-structured surface (10.1) is designed on both sides of a wheel (107) mounted around the axle.

6. Planetary gear (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a / the structuring of the structured surface section (10.1) is interrupted in individual segments of the structured surface section.

7. Planetary gear (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that within at least one surface section of the axis (101) a line density or direction of a / the structure or an intensity and shape of the structure is individualized, namely in such a way that a static friction coefficient of at least 0.5 in the axial direction over the structured surface section (10.1) is ensured.

8. Planetary gear (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one / the axle holder (103) is provided in a planet carrier (105) of the planetary gear, namely in the form of a planet carrier bore, and in that the respective axle (101) is arranged as a planetary axle in a form-fitting manner against relative movements on the planet carrier (105).

9. Planetary gear (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the planetary gear is installed in a drive train of a wind turbine or is configured for this purpose.

10. Planetary gear (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective axis is mounted in two axial sections (XI, X2) in the axis holder (103), optionally with cylindrical or conical contact surfaces, wherein the structured surface (10.1) in the two axial sections optionally has the same or a different configuration; or wherein the respective axis is mounted in two axial sections (XI, X2) in the axis holder (103), namely on the one hand with a cylindrical and on the other hand with a conical contact surface, wherein the structured surface (10.1) in the two axial sections (XI, X2) has a different configuration.

11. Method for producing a wear-reducing axle (101) for use in a planetary gear (100), in at least one axle receptacle (103) for mounting the axle in the axle receptacle, in particular for use on a planet carrier (105) of the planetary gear, wherein in at least one axial surface section (XI, X2) of the axle a structured surface (10.1) is introduced, which is designed for non-positive support in the axle receptacle against axial displacement.

12. Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that in at least one surface section (XI, X2) of the axis, a substantially force-fitting surface is introduced by at least one of the following laser structuring measures, wherein the laser-structured surface (10.1) is preferably generated in a wave-like or serpentine structure or in a scale-like structure as a function of at least one predefined / predefinable specific elevation and / or density parameter: laser structuring of a first axial surface section (XI), laser structuring of at least two axial surface sections (XI, X2) with variation of the orientation of the structure in at least two spatial directions, laser structuring with an axially and / or rotationally moving axis (101), laser structuring with a fixed axis.

13. Wear-reducing axle (101) for a planetary gear (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, comprising an axle holder (103) for supporting the axle, wherein the axle (101) is produced by at least one of the following steps: providing a basic shape of a preferably one-piece base body of the axle (101) after laser (deposition) welding or following machining of at least one plain bearing section (101.1) of the axle in / by means of the same laser system (200), introducing at least one structured surface (10.1) in at least one axial section of the axis by laser structuring according to at least one of the following laser structuring measures depending on at least one predefined / predefinable specific elevation and / or density parameter: laser structuring of a first axial surface section (XI), laser structuring of at least two axial surface sections (XI, X2), laser structuring with the axis moving axially and / or rotatingly, laser structuring. with a fixed axle; in particular produced by a method according to claim 11 or 12. Use of a plurality of wear-reducing axles (101) in a planetary gear (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10 with at least one planetary gear stage in an axle holder (103) of a planet carrier (105) for supporting the axles, wherein the respective axle with at least one outer circumferential surface section (10.1a) designed for frictional engagement, preferably with two outer circumferential surface sections (10.1b) on both sides of a plain bearing surface (101.1), with a frictionally acting laser-structured frictional engagement structure, comes into direct contact with the axle holder over its outer surface in a frictional engagement without form-fitting contours in the axle holder (103) such that a coefficient of static friction greater than 0.5 is ensured by the respective axle (101) and the axle holder (103) forming a fit with a pre-definable normal force (Fn).Use of at least one wear-reducing axle (101) in a planetary gear (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, in an axle holder (103) for supporting the axle, in particular in each case as planetary axles in a planet carrier (105) of the planetary gear, wherein the axle (101) has, on an outer surface designed for frictional connection, in two outer surface sections (10.1a, 10.1b), in each case a non-positively acting laser-structured structure (10.1), wherein the outer surface sections are / are arranged in the axle holder (103) in a non-positive / frictional manner, wherein in a first outer surface section (10.1a) a first laser structure is arranged and in the further outer surface section (10.1b) a second laser structure is introduced, wherein the first and second laser structure have different parameters, wherein the axle (101) is / is preferably thermally introduced into the axle holder (103), in particular with the axle also comprising at least one sliding bearing surface (101.1) for a planetary gear (107).

Images