Arc Bearing Rotation Suppression via Segmented Protrusions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arc-shaped bearings in steering devices are prone to rotation due to applied forces, leading to potential damage of projecting portions used to prevent rotation.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped bushing with arc and linear-shaped rotation suppressing portions, integrated with a housing and spring mechanism that applies load through washers and pins, eliminating the need for a projecting portion on the outer surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a large projecting portion is formed on the outer circumferential surface of a resin bearing to prevent rotation, then the bearing rotation is suppressed, but the projecting portion is susceptible to damage due to applied forces
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing is divided into multiple functional segments: an arc-shaped main body for load bearing, multiple rotation suppressing portions (protrusions) for preventing rotation, and recesses for receiving them. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while distributing stress away from single critical points.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the bearing have different properties: the main body is arc-shaped for structural integrity, while specific localized regions have protrusions and recesses for rotation suppression. The rotation suppressing portions are strategically positioned to engage with the housing only when rotation occurs, minimizing stress on these features.
2Ease of operation
If an arc-shaped bearing is used instead of a cylindrical bearing, then the bearing can support the movable column member, but the bearing easily rotates due to applied forces
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing uses an asymmetric arc-shaped design rather than a symmetric cylindrical shape. This asymmetry allows the bearing to fit into the housing in a specific orientation and prevents rotation through the engagement of protrusions with corresponding recesses in the housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusions and recesses are pre-configured in specific positions on the bearing and housing. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the bearing is installed, the rotation suppressing features are already in position to prevent rotation before any operational forces are applied.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively suppresses bearing rotation without damaging projecting portions, allowing for stable operation under load while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to press down the inner tube and the shaft and arranged on the lid at a position corresponding to the bushing
Implementation Method 2
a first linear-shaped rotation suppressing portion that extends from a first end of an arc in the arc portion and includes a portion projecting outward from a circumcircle of the arc portion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(A)~2(B)
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The rotation of a bearing is suppressed without the need for a projecting portion on an outer circumferential surface of an arc portion in the bearing. Bearing 10 includes arc portion 11 in which a cross section orthogonal to an axial direction has an arc shape, and rotation suppressing portion 12 and rotation suppressing portion 13 that extend respectively from a first end and a second end of an arc in arc portion 11 and include a portion projecting outward from a circumcircle of arc portion 11 in the cross section orthogonal to the axial direction.