Elastic Cavity Roller Axis for Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support rollers in metal processing plants experience uneven load distribution, leading to reduced dynamic load rating and service life due to high loads concentrated on individual rolling elements, especially in straightening machines.
Innovation Solution
The roller axis is designed with elasticity by incorporating a cavity, such as a bore, that allows load distribution across adjacent rolling elements both longitudinally and circumferentially, reducing wear on the roller bearing and enhancing durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support roller uses a rigid roller axis with rolling elements mounted directly, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the load distribution is highly uneven causing reduced dynamic load rating and service life
Solution Approach 1:
The roller axis structure is changed from rigid to elastic by introducing a cavity, allowing the axis to deform under load and distribute forces more evenly across rolling elements, thereby improving service life without significantly increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A cavity is introduced into the roller axis creating a hollow elastic structure that allows controlled deformation under load, enabling better load distribution across the rolling elements while maintaining structural integrity
2Reliability
If high-quality and wear-resistant rolling elements are used, then durability is maximized, but the cost and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the previously harmful concentrated line load into a beneficial distributed load pattern through the elastic roller axis, allowing standard rolling elements to achieve the same durability as expensive high-quality elements would provide in a rigid system
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
This design improves load distribution and durability, increasing the dynamic load rating and service life of the support roller while reducing wear on the bearing, without the need for high-quality rolling elements.
Implementation Method 1
the roller axis is given elasticity, by which the loaded rolling elements can deviate from a load in the apex position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a support roller (1, 10), particularly for rolling mill systems or equipment for casting, conveying or straightening metal products, comprising a cylindrical roller axle (2, 20), a hollow cylindrical outer ring (3, 30) arranged concentrically in relation to the roller axle (2, 20), and a plurality of rolling bodies (5, 50) arranged between the roller axle (2, 20) and the outer ring (3, 30). According to the invention, the roller axle (20) further comprises a cavity (70), at least in certain sections between its central axis (A) and a load introduction point. Due to the provision of the cavity according to the invention, particularly the load rating and the service life of the support roller are increased.