Rolling Bearing Assembly With Conductive Path for Electrical Discharge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rolling bearing assemblies in electric motors are prone to damage due to electrical discharge from built-up voltages on motor shafts, leading to frequent replacements.
Innovation Solution
A rolling bearing assembly with electrical discharge damage protection is designed, featuring an inner and outer ring with electrically conductive parts and brush filaments that create an electrical path to dissipate voltage without damaging the bearings, using conductive brush filaments coupled to the rings and a seal to manage electrical discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rolling bearing assemblies are used in electric motors, then the motor can operate, but the bearings are damaged by electrical discharge from built-up voltages on motor shafts, leading to frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary electrical path consisting of conductive elements (such as brush filaments or conductive rings) that mediate between the bearing and ground. This intermediary path allows electrical discharge to occur through the conductor rather than through the bearing, protecting the bearing from electrical damage while maintaining motor operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful electrical discharge that would normally damage the bearing into a beneficial protective mechanism. By providing a designated conductive path, the harmful electrical energy is redirected to flow through the conductive element instead of the bearing, effectively using the discharge to protect the bearing system.
2Reliability
If electrical discharge protection is added to the bearing assembly, then electrical damage is prevented, but the device complexity increases due to additional conductive parts and brush filaments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing conductive elements that serve dual purposes: they provide the electrical discharge path for protection while also potentially serving as sealing elements or structural components within the bearing assembly. This reduces the need for separate dedicated protection components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the electrical protection function with existing bearing components. The conductive elements are integrated into the bearing structure, combining the protective electrical path function with the mechanical support and sealing functions already present in the bearing assembly, thereby minimizing additional complexity.
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
The solution effectively prevents electrical discharge damage to the rolling bearing assembly, extending its operational life by providing a safe path for voltage dissipation, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Implementation Method 1
electrically conductive parts including electrically conductive brush filaments that create an electrical path between the bearing and ground
Data Source
AI summary
A bearing assembly comprises an inner ring comprising an inner ring raceway, an outer ring comprising an outer ring raceway, rolling elements configured to roll or rotate between the inner ring raceway and the outer ring raceway, at least one electrically conductive part with a first end and a second end, and a seal coupled to the at least one electrically conductive part. The seal is configured to directly contact only one of the inner ring or the outer ring. The first end is configured to electrically contact one of the inner ring and the outer ring and the second end is configured to electrically contact the other of the inner ring and the outer ring.