Rolling Bearing Integrated Generators Energy Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling bearings lack an integrated and economical solution for energy management and monitoring of operating parameters, such as rotational speed and position, which requires separate power supplies for sensors and generators, limiting their integration and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A rolling bearing with two permanently excited generators, where the first generator supplies energy to integrated sensors and actuators, and the second generator provides voltage signals for determining position and speed, using identical structures like claw pole generators with alternating polarity permanent magnets, allowing for voltage shaping, rectification, and charging of an energy storage device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a generator is integrated into the rolling bearing, then energy can be supplied to integrated sensors and actuators, but the structure becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the generator, sensors, and actuators into a single integrated unit within the rolling bearing. The generator is positioned in the intermediate space between the bearing rings, and its output directly powers the electronic components without requiring external wiring or separate power supply installations, thus merging multiple functions into one compact structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling bearing is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical support, energy generation, and electronic monitoring. The same bearing structure houses both the mechanical rolling elements and the electrical generator components, allowing it to serve as both a mechanical support element and a self-powered sensing system.
2Ease of operation
If separate power supplies are used for sensors and generators, then energy management becomes simpler, but the device requires more components and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply function into the generator itself, which is integrated within the bearing structure. The generator produces electrical energy that directly powers the sensors and actuators, eliminating the need for separate batteries or external power supplies. This integration reduces the total number of components while maintaining straightforward energy management through direct coupling.
3Ease of manufacture
If identical generator structures are used for both energy supply and signal generation, then manufacturing becomes easier, but the system requires careful differentiation of functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses identical generator structures for both energy supply and signal generation purposes. By maintaining the same physical design and manufacturing process for both functions, production complexity is reduced. The differentiation between power generation and signal generation is achieved through parameter changes in how the generators are operated and controlled, rather than through structural modifications.
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
This solution eliminates the need for separate power supplies for sensors, enables efficient energy management, and allows for precise determination of rotational speed and position, facilitating mass production and integration in various bearing constructions, while reducing the complexity of control software.
Implementation Method 1
a first permanently excited generator (09, 21) whose primary part (107) and secondary part (106) are locked in rotation with one of the bearing rings (101, 102)
Data Source
AI summary
A rolling bearing having a permanently excited first generator (09) which is arranged in an intermediate space between two bearing rings which are rotatable relative to one another, the first generator having a primary part and a secondary part and generating a first generator voltage when it operates, the secondary part has permanent magnets (04) which are arranged with alternating polarity on the circumference of one of the bearing rings at least in sections. The rolling bearing includes a second generator (21), and the first generator voltage serves for the supply of energy to a sensor arrangement and/or actuator arrangement integrated in the bearing, whereas the second generator outputs a voltage signal for position determination and rotational speed measurement. A method for the energy management of a rolling bearing of this type is also provided.