Axial Bearing Load Measurement via Bearing Shoe Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing axial bearings for high axial loads in water turbines, pumps, or pump turbines face challenges in accurately measuring fluctuating loads, leading to potential damage due to high bearing temperatures, as indirect deformation measurements are complex and not very accurate.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a measuring device within the axial bearing to measure the average distance between the bearing plate and bearing shoes, utilizing a distance sensor and elastic elements to calculate the axial load, which can be easily calibrated and integrated into existing assemblies, allowing for precise and long-term reliable load measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect deformation measurement methods are used to measure axial load, then the measurement can be implemented, but the measurement precision is low and the device complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex indirect mechanical deformation measurement systems with a simple distance sensor that directly measures the axial position of the bearing shoe. This substitution of measurement methodology dramatically simplifies the device while improving precision, as the distance sensor provides direct electrical signals proportional to axial load without requiring complex mechanical deformation analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a distance sensor as an intermediary measurement element between the bearing shoe and the measurement system. This intermediary device converts the mechanical position information into electrical signals that can be easily processed, avoiding the need for complex direct mechanical measurement of deformations in the bearing components.
2Reliability
If bearing shoes are designed to tilt and compensate for tolerances through axial flexibility, then the hydrodynamic lubricating film can form properly, but the axial load measurement becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The distance sensor serves as an intermediary that measures the axial position of the bearing shoe without interfering with its tilting motion or flexibility. By measuring the axial distance rather than attempting to measure forces or deformations, the system can accommodate the bearing shoe's natural movement while still obtaining accurate load measurement data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement methods that would interfere with the bearing shoe's flexibility and tilting capability with an optical/electrical distance measurement system. This substitution allows the bearing shoe to maintain its full range of motion for proper lubrication while the distance sensor non-invasively measures the axial position to calculate load.
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
Enables straightforward and accurate measurement of axial loads, reducing the risk of bearing damage by providing precise load data, simplifying installation, and ensuring long-term functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The spring elements are usually arranged in groups and covered by a bearing shoe. The load transmission device is firmly connected to the shaft and comprises a tracking ring which can rotate on the bearing shoes. In order for a hydrodynamic lubricating film to form between the tracking ring and the bearing shoes on all bearing shoes during operation, the supporting spring elements must allow the bearing shoes to tilt and compensate for manufacturing and assembly tolerances by means of axial flexibility.
Implementation Method 2
In order to achieve the object, it is sufficient if the axial bearing comprises at least one measuring device for measuring the average distance between bearing plate and at least one of the bearing shoes.
Data Source
AI summary
An axial bearing for absorbing high axial loads of a shaft has a support structure and a load transmission device for transmitting the load from the shaft to the support structure. The support structure includes a bearing plate, a plurality of spring elements, and a plurality of bearing shoes. The spring elements are supported on the bearing plate and arranged in groups, and each group of spring elements being covered by a bearing shoe. The load transmission device is firmly connected to the shaft and has a tracking ring which is arranged such that the tracking ring can rotate on the bearing shoes. The bearing plate and the tracking ring are in each case arranged concentrically with the shaft, and the axial bearing has an advantageously designed measuring device for measurement of the mean distance between the bearing plate and a bearing shoe.