Rolling Bearing Angular Indexing Finger and Arc Stop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling bearings, such as ISO deep groove ball bearings, lack integrated means to precisely adjust the angular position of the inner ring relative to the outer ring, which is essential for applications like medical systems where precise positioning is required.
Innovation Solution
A rolling bearing assembly with an angular indexing finger extending radially from the inner ring and an arc-shaped stop on the outer ring, allowing for angular adjustment of the inner ring within a specific range, utilizing radial holes and an axial annular recess for precise positioning and damping with shock absorbers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional ISO deep groove ball bearings are used, then the bearing structure is simple and compact, but the angular position of the inner ring relative to the outer ring cannot be precisely adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing structure is segmented by adding discrete angular adjustment components (indexing fingers, radial holes, arc-shaped stops) to the conventional bearing rings, allowing independent angular positioning functionality while maintaining the overall bearing structure
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary indexing mechanism is introduced between the inner and outer rings, consisting of indexing fingers that engage with radial holes and are constrained by arc-shaped stops, enabling precise angular positioning without direct modification of the raceways
2Manufacturing precision
If angular adjustment means are added to the bearing, then angular positioning capability is improved, but the bearing dimensions and overall size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The angular adjustment mechanism utilizes the axial dimension of the bearing by placing indexing fingers and arc-shaped stops within axial annular recesses, allowing angular positioning functionality to be integrated without significantly increasing the radial or circumferential dimensions of the bearing
Solution Approach 2:
The angular adjustment components (indexing fingers, stops, and recesses) are nested within the existing bearing structure, with indexing fingers extending into axial annular recesses and arc-shaped stops mounted within the same recesses, maximizing space utilization without increasing overall bearing size
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 precise angular adjustment of the inner ring relative to the outer ring within a range of +/-170°, maintaining mechanical integrity and reducing overall dimensions without increasing the bearing's size, while allowing for easy setting and maintenance of the angular position.
Implementation Method 1
the stop is provided with two lateral shock absorbers for damping the circumferential contact between the angular indexing finger and the arc-shaped stop
Data Source
AI summary
Rolling bearing assembly (10) comprising an inner ring (12), an outer ring (14), and at least one row of rolling elements (16) located between raceways provided on the inner and outer rings (12, 14). The rolling bearing assembly comprises means (20) for angularly adjusting the inner ring (12) relative to the outer ring (14) comprising at least one angular indexing finger (22) extending radially from one of the rings (12) towards the other ring (14) and an arcshaped stop (30) for said angular indexing finger (22) mounted on the other ring (14).