Elastomeric Bearing for Dozer Equalizer Link
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lubricated steel bearings in dozer equalizer links are prone to failure due to exposure to dirt, mud, and debris, leading to costly repairs and frequent maintenance, as they fail after approximately 1,000-3,000 hours of operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an elastomeric bearing assembly with a cylindrical and frustospherical elastomeric portions, along with a nonelastomeric shim, which is bonded between these components, providing a durable and low-maintenance alternative for connecting the equalizer link to the roller track frames, capable of withstanding torsional and cocking loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lubricated steel bearings are used in dozer equalizer links, then the bearings can initially support loads and provide articulation, but they are prone to failure after 1,000-3,000 hours due to exposure to dirt, mud, and debris
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining elastomeric elements with metallic components in the bearing assembly. The elastomeric material provides contamination resistance while the metallic parts handle structural loads, creating a hybrid system that leverages the advantages of both material types to achieve both durability and load-bearing capability in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters of the bearing from traditional steel to elastomeric compounds with specific durometer ratings (e.g., 60-80 Shore A). This parameter change transforms the bearing's interaction with contaminants, allowing the elastomeric material to resist degradation from dirt, mud, and debris while maintaining functional performance under load.
2Ease of operation
If conventional lubricated steel bearings are used, then the bearings can provide articulation, but they require regular inspection, lubrication, and maintenance to minimize failure
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric bearing assembly is designed to be self-lubricating and self-maintaining. The elastomeric material inherently resists contamination without requiring external lubrication, and the sealed design prevents dirt and debris from degrading the internal components. This eliminates the need for regular inspection, lubrication, and maintenance while preserving full articulation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a sealed, maintenance-free bearing design that functions as a disposable component with extended life. Rather than requiring repeated maintenance of traditional bearings, the entire elastomeric bearing assembly is designed to function reliably for extended periods without intervention, and can be replaced as a single unit when worn, reducing cumulative maintenance time and costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lubricated steel bearings are used, then the bearings can pivotally connect the equalizer link to roller frame assemblies, but they are subject to substantial wear and degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing assembly uses composite construction combining elastomeric elements with metallic components. The elastomeric material provides wear resistance and contamination protection, while the metallic parts maintain structural strength for pivotal connection. This composite approach enables the bearing to simultaneously achieve adaptability for articulation and resistance to wear and degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric bearing elements function as flexible shells that provide both the pivotal connection capability and resistance to wear. The elastomeric material's inherent flexibility allows for articulation while its durability resists degradation from environmental contaminants and mechanical stress, eliminating the wear problems of traditional steel bearings.
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 elastomeric bearing assembly significantly reduces maintenance needs and extends the operational life of dozer suspension systems by accommodating significant cocking and torsional loads without failure, offering a durable solution that can last for over 1,000 hours with reduced repair costs.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomeric bearing assembly can include a substantially cylindrical outer member, a substantially cylindrical elastomeric portion coupled to the cylindrical outer member
Implementation Method 2
an inner member coupled to the frustospherical elastomeric portion and at least one metal shim disposed between and bonded to the substantially cylindrical elastomeric portion and the substantially frustospherical elastomeric portion
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle suspension system for large vehicles includes at least one elastomeric bearing. The bearing includes at least one substantially cylindrical elastomeric portion, at least one substantially frustospherical elastomeric portion, and at least one non-extensible shim disposed between and bonded to the substantially cylindrical elastomeric portion and the substantially frustospherical elastomeric portion.