Bearing Securing Element With Elastic Bulge for Low-Force Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing securing elements for bearing devices in drive devices require narrow tolerances and high installation forces due to their design, which limits their adaptability and ease of installation.
Innovation Solution
A securing element with a bulge formed by bending perpendicular to its plane, allowing elastic deformation during installation, reducing installation forces and accommodating wider tolerances, and featuring planar portions for reduced contact pressure and a stiffening portion for easier handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the securing element is designed with elevations formed by stamping process to achieve clamping connection, then the securing element can be fixed in the receptacle, but relatively high installation forces are required and narrow tolerances are needed for the axial gap
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the securing element by introducing a bulge that extends in the axial direction beyond the plane of the securing element. This bulge allows the element to elastically deform during installation, reducing the installation forces required while maintaining reliable clamping connection. The bulge acts as a deformation zone that absorbs installation forces and enables the securing element to adapt to varying axial gaps within a wider tolerance range.
2Reliability
If the securing element is designed with elevations formed by stamping process, then clamping connection can be achieved, but the receptacle size must be within narrow tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a bulge that extends axially beyond the plane of the securing element, creating a variable geometric parameter that enables elastic deformation. This deformation capability allows the securing element to compensate for variations in receptacle dimensions, thereby accepting wider tolerances for the axial gap between the stop surface and the bearing face surface while maintaining reliable clamping connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transforms the rigid securing element into a dynamic component capable of elastic deformation through the bulge. During installation, the bulge deforms elastically to accommodate variations in receptacle size, allowing the securing element to adapt to different axial gaps. This dynamic behavior enables the system to function reliably across a wider range of manufacturing tolerances.
3Force
If the securing element is bent in an axis perpendicular to its plane to create a bulge, then elastic deformation is enabled and installation forces are reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention adds a dimensional feature (the bulge) that extends in the axial direction perpendicular to the plane of the securing element. This third-dimensional feature enables elastic deformation during installation, reducing installation forces. The bulge can be produced by simple bending processes, adding minimal complexity to the manufacturing process while providing significant functional benefits.
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 secure fixing of bearings with lower installation forces and wider tolerance acceptance, simplifying the installation process and reducing material stress on the housing.
Implementation Method 1
the securing element can be elastically deformed as it is inserted into the receptacle between the stop surface of the receptacle and that face surface of the bearing which faces toward the securing element, wherein the deformation forces required for this purpose or the installation forces are relatively low
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a securing element (1) for a bearing device in a housing (20) of a drive device (10, 100), wherein the plate-like securing element (1) has two side legs (34, 35) and a base leg (36) which connects the side legs, wherein, between the base leg and the side legs, there is formed a cutout (38) for receiving a shaft (12) which is mounted rotatably in a bearing, wherein the two side legs are designed to interact, by means of a first face side, with the bearing and, by means of a second face side, with a stop surface in the housing.