Bearing Cage Geometry for Easier Rolling Element Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bearings face issues with damage to rolling elements during assembly due to the outer rib of the inner ring, and reducing the rib height increases the risk of rolling elements falling out, complicating the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A bearing design with a cage featuring extension portions that taper inwardly, reducing material consumption and facilitating rolling element installation while minimizing damage and preventing elements from falling out, without the need for additional mounting grooves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the height of the outer rib of the inner ring is reduced to reduce the risk of damage to the rolling elements during mounting, then the risk of damage to rolling elements is reduced, but the rolling elements have a greater chance of falling out after mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The extension portion is divided into multiple sections (first extension section and second extension section) with different functions. The first extension section provides a tapered mounting surface for easy installation, while the second extension section provides a flange-like structure for retaining rolling elements, thus segmenting the functions of the outer rib
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the extension portion have different geometric properties tailored to specific functions. The first extension section has a tapered surface for facilitating mounting, while the second extension section has a larger radial dimension for retention, creating local quality variations to address different requirements
2Ease of operation
If a mounting groove is milled into the outer rib of the inner ring to facilitate the mounting of rolling elements, then the mounting process is facilitated, but all rolling elements must be installed through the mounting groove which significantly affects assembly efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of creating a groove (removing material in one dimension), the invention adds an extension portion that protrudes radially outward, providing a tapered mounting surface from the outside. This dimensional change allows rolling elements to be installed from the radial direction without compromising cage strength or requiring material removal
3Loss of substance
If the outer radial surfaces of the extension sections taper toward the center of the cage, then material consumption is reduced and rolling element installation is facilitated, but the structural strength of the extension portions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The extension portion is segmented into multiple sections where the first extension section tapers for material efficiency and easy mounting, while the second extension section maintains a larger cross-section for structural strength and retention function, thus balancing material consumption and strength requirements
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application provides a bearing comprising an outer ring, an inner ring, rolling elements, and a cage. The cage comprises a base portion and a plurality of extension portions, wherein the base portion is annular; the plurality of extension portions are provided on the side surface of the base portion, and adjacent extension portions and a part of the base portion form pockets therebetween for receiving the rolling elements; each extension portion comprises a first extension section and a second extension section; the first extension section is connected to the base portion; the second extension section is connected to the first extension section; and in a direction away from the base portion, the radial outer surfaces of the first extension section and the second extension section are both contracted toward the center of the cage.By using the bearing of the present application, the amount of material used on the end face of a radial outer surface of the cage near the extension portions is reduced, so that the rolling elements can be more easily installed into the pockets of the cage and the risk of damage during installation of the rolling elements is effectively reduced; furthermore, as much material as possible is retained at other locations of the cage to prevent deterioration of the cage strength.