Bearing Preload Alignment Using Optical Lock Nut Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preloading antifriction bearings in drive trains, such as truck axle bearings, face challenges in achieving accurate and repeatable preload settings under in-field conditions due to cumbersome assembly procedures and resistive drag torque from inner seals, making it difficult to apply the optimal axial compressive deflection of 0.003 inches.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that includes a press mechanism with an attaching member and optical sending units to align and apply a compressive load to the bearing, using a wrench to rotate the lock nut and provide a consistent preload, while monitoring the preload to ensure accurate settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional torque application methods are used to preload bearings, then the assembly procedure is simple, but the preload accuracy and repeatability deteriorate due to resistive drag torque from inner seals and cumbersome assembly procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-aligning the lock nut with the shaft slot using optical sending units (lasers) before applying the compressive preload. This alignment is performed in advance to eliminate resistive drag torque issues during the critical preload application phase, ensuring accurate and repeatable preload settings without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical alignment methods with an optical system (laser sending units) to align the lock nut with the shaft slot. This substitution eliminates the resistive drag torque that occurs with mechanical twisting during alignment, allowing for precise preload application without the harmful effects of seal resistance.
2Manufacturing precision
If the lock nut is aligned with the shaft slot before preload application, then the preload setting becomes accurate and repeatable, but the alignment procedure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical alignment procedures with an optical alignment system using laser sending units. The optical beams provide visual guidance for aligning the lock nut with the shaft slot, making the procedure more precise and repeatable while actually simplifying the operation compared to traditional mechanical alignment methods that require trial and error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical sending units (lasers) as an intermediary tool to facilitate alignment between the lock nut and shaft slot. This intermediary provides a clear visual reference system that guides the alignment process, making it easier to achieve precise positioning without direct mechanical contact that would create resistive drag.
3Measurement precision
If optical sending units are used to align the lock nut, then the alignment precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical sending units as temporary intermediary tools that provide alignment guidance during the preload process. These optical devices are relatively simple in themselves and do not require complex control systems, making the increase in device complexity minimal while providing significant improvements in alignment precision.
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 accurate and repeatable preload adjustments for bearings, minimizing the impact of resistive drag torque and ensuring optimal bearing performance by providing a reliable means to apply and monitor the compressive load.
Implementation Method 1
An optical sending unit is configured to output a high intensity light to allow a user to locate a shaft slot of the shaft to align the press mechanism relative to the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for providing a load on a bearing mounted to a shaft includes an attaching member releasably connectable to the shaft. A press mechanism is coupled to the attaching member and is configured to provide a compressive load to the bearing. An optical sending unit is configured to output a high intensity light to allow a user to locate a shaft slot of the shaft to align the press mechanism relative to the shaft when the attaching member connects to the shaft.