Adjustable Radial Bearing Segment Shells for Lubrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radial bearings with segment shells face issues due to non-durable fixing methods, such as gluing and screwing, which can lead to loosening and inadequate lubrication, and lack adjustability in bearing clearance and shell curvature.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves interlocking segment shells with adjustable end regions, using spacer elements and clamping or holding elements to allow for curvature and position adjustments, enabling flexible mounting and post-production adjustment of the bearing shells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If segment shells are fixed to the housing by gluing or screwing, then the shells are secured in position, but the fixing is not durable and can loosen over time
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing shell is divided into multiple segments that can be independently adjusted and fixed. Each segment can be separately positioned and secured, allowing for precise adjustment of bearing clearance and curvature while maintaining secure fixation through individual interlocking mechanisms for each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing system transitions from a static, permanent fixation (gluing or rigid screwing) to a dynamic, adjustable system. The segments can be positioned and fixed in different configurations, allowing the bearing to adapt to wear and operational changes while maintaining reliable fixation through reversible interlocking mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If segment shells are fixed by gluing or screwing, then the shells are secured, but the bearing clearance and segment shell curvature cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The segments are pre-configured with interlocking features and adjustment mechanisms that allow for preliminary positioning and curvature adjustment before final fixation. This enables the bearing clearance and shell curvature to be optimized during assembly while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Adjustment elements or spacer components serve as intermediaries between the segment shells and the housing. These intermediaries enable precise adjustment of bearing clearance and shell curvature while simplifying the fixation mechanism, as the adjustment function is separated from the securing function.
3Reliability
If segment shells are fixed by gluing or screwing, then the shells are secured in position, but optimal lubrication is not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing shell fixation system is made dynamic, allowing adjustment of the segments to optimize the bearing clearance for optimal lubrication. The segments can be repositioned and re-fixed to achieve the ideal clearance that ensures proper lubrication film formation, and this adjustment can be performed during operation to maintain optimal conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a radial bearing for mounting a shaft, comprising the following features:several bearing shells which are curved according to the radius of the shaft and whose inner surface forms the plain bearing surfaces;a housing enclosing the bearing shells;at least one of the end regions of the respective bearing shell as seen in the circumferential direction is held in an interlocking manner on the housing in such a way that expansion and/or displacement of the end region or the entire bearing shell is possible;means for setting the curvature of the individual bearing shell.