Elastomer Bearing Spacer for Output Shaft Vibration Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rotating electrical machines experience vibrations that disturb output shaft bearings, leading to potential mechanical binding and catastrophic failure of metallic wave springs.
Innovation Solution
A spacer with a V-shaped cross-section made of durable elastomer material is used to dampen vibrations and support output shaft bearings, providing axial force while reducing the likelihood of mechanical binding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metallic wave springs are used to support output shaft bearings, then axial force can be provided, but vibrations cause mechanical binding and catastrophic failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metallic to elastomeric, fundamentally altering the mechanical properties. The elastomeric material provides vibration isolation through its inherent damping characteristics while maintaining the necessary axial support function, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing axial force and preventing vibration-induced mechanical binding
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer utilizes elastomeric composite material that combines the flexibility needed for vibration dampening with the structural integrity required for bearing support. This composite approach allows the single component to simultaneously provide axial support and isolate vibrations, preventing the mechanical binding that plagues metallic wave springs
2Strength
If rigid spacers are used to support bearings, then structural strength is maintained, but vibrations are not dampened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from rigid to elastomeric, transforming the spacer's mechanical behavior. The elastomeric material provides inherent vibration isolation through its damping properties while maintaining sufficient structural strength for bearing support, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural strength and vibration dampening
3Force
If metallic wave springs are used, then axial force is provided, but durability is reduced due to catastrophic failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metallic to elastomeric, fundamentally improving durability. The elastomeric material provides the necessary axial force while being immune to the catastrophic failure modes that affect metallic wave springs, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing axial force and ensuring long-term durability
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
The elastomer spacer enhances the longevity of rotating electrical machines by effectively dampening vibrations and preventing mechanical binding, outperforming metallic wave springs in durability and load handling.
Implementation Method 1
A spacer with a V-shaped cross-section made of durable elastomer material is used to dampen vibrations
Data Source
AI summary
A spacer is configured to abut an output shaft bearing. The spacer has an inner diameter and an outer diameter. A first wall extends from the inner diameter to the outer diameter, and is configured to abut a radial surface of the output shaft bearing as well as a surface of a housing. A second wall, attached to the first wall at the inner diameter, extends from the inner diameter to the outer diameter, and is configured to abut a surface of the housing. The first wall and the second wall are axially spaced apart at the outer diameter.