Drive Device Shaft Support for Axle Loading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive device housings fail to adequately support severe axle loading and prevent unwanted flexion or movement of axles, leading to reduced integrity and alignment issues in gear systems, which increases wear and reduces the lifespan of components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an improved shaft support system within the housing, featuring an axle support structure with integral bushing support apertures and anti-rotation features, along with additional support structures for jackshafts, to provide enhanced rigidity and prevent radial or axial movement of axles and jackshafts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional housing structures are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but axle loading support is insufficient leading to flexion and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into multiple functional components including a main housing body, separate axle support structures, and integrated bushing assemblies. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity under severe axle loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the axle support function directly into the housing structure by providing axle support structures that are integrally formed with or rigidly attached to the housing. This integration eliminates the need for separate external support components while providing robust support for severe axle loading.
2Reliability
If adequate shaft support is provided, then alignment and integrity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing incorporates local quality enhancements through features such as integrally formed bushings, localized reinforcement ribs, and precision-machined bearing surfaces at critical shaft support locations. These localized quality improvements provide enhanced alignment and support without requiring complex overall structural changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure provides self-service shaft support through integrally formed bushings and built-in alignment features that automatically maintain proper gear alignment and shaft positioning under load, eliminating the need for additional external alignment mechanisms or complex support systems.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If axial and radial movement is prevented, then component lifespan is extended, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing incorporates preliminary action through pre-formed bushings, pre-machined bearing surfaces, and built-in anti-rotation features that are integrated into the housing during manufacturing. These features are prepared in advance to automatically prevent axial and radial movement of shafts, eliminating the need for additional assembly steps or complex post-manufacturing adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive device having a shaft support structure located within its housing, such as an axle support structure for providing additional support to a pair of output axles under load. The axle support structure comprises at least one aperture sized to receive a bushing that may have a non-rotation feature. The housing may also include a shaft support structure for other shafts, such as a jackshaft of a gear reduction system disposed between a transmission and the driven output axles.