Bearing Ring Pairing for Precise Preload Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bearing assemblies face challenges in achieving precise tolerances due to variations in component tolerances, leading to inefficiencies in assembly and performance, particularly under external physical influences like preload, which can result in vibration, noise, and reduced bearing life.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that automatically obtain geometric measurement data of inner and outer rings, calculate displacement based on measured data and mechanical properties, and pair components to meet narrower tolerance requirements, using CAD software to optimize preload and assembly precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If standard tolerance components are used for assembly, then manufacturing cost and ease of assembly are improved, but assembly precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-measuring and recording the actual geometric dimensions of inner and outer rings before assembly, then using these measurements to calculate optimal pairing combinations. This advance preparation enables precise assembly without requiring complex real-time measurement equipment during the assembly process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital model that copies and stores the actual geometric measurement data of bearing components. This digital replica allows for virtual pairing calculations and optimization without physically handling and measuring components during assembly, reducing manual effort while maintaining precision.
2Productivity
If manual measurement and pairing methods are used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but productivity and measurement precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and pairing operations with an automated computer-based system. The measurement data is automatically obtained, stored in a database, and processed through algorithms that calculate optimal pairings, eliminating the need for manual measurement and pairing operations while significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically obtaining measurement data, calculating displacement under load conditions, determining optimal pairings, and generating assembly instructions without human intervention. The computer system serves itself by processing its own data and making pairing decisions based on predetermined criteria.
3Manufacturing precision
If component tolerances are loosened to ease manufacturing, then manufacturing cost is improved, but assembly tolerance compliance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from controlling individual component tolerances to controlling the combined assembly tolerance through intelligent pairing. By measuring actual dimensions and calculating optimal combinations based on displacement under load, the system achieves tight assembly tolerance compliance even when individual components have relaxed tolerances.
Data Source
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AI summary
Method of assembling one or more bearings, comprising the steps of: calculating a displacement of an inner and an outer ring based on measured geometric properties, mechanical properties and a predetermined load on the bearing, and pairing inner and outer rings based on the calculated displacement.