Spherical Bearing Lock Ring for Multi-Axis Mount Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastening systems are inadequate for aligning structures with manufacturing tolerances and assembly constraints, particularly when structures like engines need to be mounted on vehicles, as they do not allow for necessary adjustments in multiple degrees of freedom.
Innovation Solution
A locking positioning system comprising a spherical bearing with an inner and outer race, a lock ring, and a housing, which enables adjustment and locking of the second structure relative to the first structure through a mechanical fastener and spring mechanism, allowing for rotational and translational movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional fasteners are used to mount structures, then the mounting is simple and direct, but the structures cannot be properly aligned due to manufacturing tolerances and assembly constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates a spherical bearing that allows the second structure to rotate and adjust its position dynamically relative to the first structure. The inner race is coupled to the first structure while the outer race is coupled to the second structure, enabling multi-degree-of-freedom movement to achieve proper alignment despite manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into distinct functional components: a housing coupled to the first structure, a spherical bearing with separable inner and outer races, and a lock ring with engagement features. This segmentation allows independent adjustment and locking of each component to achieve precise alignment
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustment mechanisms are added to enable alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment and locking functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The lock ring simultaneously provides adjustment capability through its movement along the inner race and locking capability through its engagement features that interface with the housing and inner race, eliminating the need for separate adjustment and locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features are designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the lock ring. When the lock ring is in the adjusted position, the engagement features self-lock by engaging with the housing and inner race, eliminating the need for additional locking steps or complex locking mechanisms
3Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is implemented to secure the adjusted position, then the position stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock ring serves as an intermediary component that mediates between the adjustment function and the locking function. It can be freely moved along the inner race for adjustment, and when positioned correctly, its engagement features automatically engage with the housing and inner race to provide stable locking, simplifying the operation sequence
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 adjustment and locking of the second structure relative to the first structure in multiple degrees of freedom, addressing misalignment issues and facilitating secure mounting without requiring special tools or access.
Implementation Method 1
a spring disposed between a head of the mechanical fastener and a seat defined within the inner race attachment bore, and the spring biases the lock ring in the first position
Implementation Method 2
a bearing including an inner race and an outer race. The outer race is coupled to the inner race, and the outer race is to be coupled to a second structure. The housing is to be coupled to a first structure
Data Source
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AI summary
A locking positioning system includes a bearing having an inner race (120) and an outer race (122). The outer race is coupled to the inner race, and the outer race is to be coupled to a second structure (104). The locking positioning system includes a housing (114) movably coupled to the inner race, and the housing is to be coupled to a first structure (102). The locking positioning system includes a lock ring (112) coupled to the housing. The lock ring is movable between a first position, in which the inner race is held in a fixed position, and a second position, in which the inner race is movable to adjust a position of the second structure relative to the first structure.