Epicyclic Reduction Unit Layout for Radial Load Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing geared reduction units for transmission shafts subjected to radial loads are bulky and heavy, leading to increased volume, weight, and production costs, as well as higher lubricating oil consumption, due to the need for larger dimensions to accommodate radial stress and bearing distances.
Innovation Solution
A compact geared reduction unit design featuring a box-like body with two half-shells, epicyclic gear system, and strategically arranged radial bearings with conical rollers in a back-to-back configuration, allowing for reduced axial volume and weight while maintaining effective rotational support under radial loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the distance between bearings is increased to withstand radial stress, then the bearing capacity is improved, but the longitudinal volume and weight of the reduction unit increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the transmission shaft connection point axially to be between the two bearings, rather than at the end. This dimensional repositioning allows the bearings to be placed closer together while still providing adequate support for the radial load, reducing the longitudinal volume and weight of the reduction unit while maintaining bearing capacity.
2Reliability
If the distance between bearings is increased to provide adequate support, then the support effectiveness is improved, but the longitudinal volume of the casing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the transmission shaft connection region axially to an intermediate position between the two bearings. This repositioning in the axial dimension allows the bearings to be spaced closer together while still providing effective support for the radial load, thereby reducing the required casing volume without compromising support effectiveness.
3Strength
If the longitudinal extension of the transmission shaft portion inside the casing is increased, then the structural strength is improved, but the performance in terms of volumes and weight deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the transmission shaft connection point axially to be between the two bearings, which optimizes the structural strength distribution. This repositioning allows for a more efficient use of the transmission shaft length inside the casing, providing adequate structural strength while minimizing the longitudinal volume and weight of the reduction unit.
4Force
If the bearing distance is increased to withstand higher radial loads, then the load capacity is improved, but the production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the transmission shaft connection point axially to be between the two bearings, which optimizes the load distribution and reduces the required bearing distance. This dimensionality change in the axial direction allows the reduction unit to withstand the required radial loads with a more compact design, thereby reducing material usage, manufacturing complexity, and production costs.
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 compact design reduces the longitudinal volume and weight of the reduction unit, lowers production and logistics costs, minimizes lubricating oil usage, and simplifies installation and operation, while maintaining effective support for transmission shafts under radial loads.
Implementation Method 1
The transmission shaft has at least one portion accommodated inside the casing that is supported in rotation by suitable rolling members, such as for example a pair of bearings
Implementation Method 2
two bearings with conical rollers mounted in an O-shaped configuration (so-called back-to-back configuration) are generally used
Implementation Method 3
a gear system for transmitting the rotation between a driving shaft and a transmission shaft
Implementation Method 4
at least one epicyclic output reduction stage constituted by a driving sun gear which rotates about a main axis and by a ring gear which is integral with the casing, between which multiple planet gears are engaged
Data Source
AI summary
A compact geared reduction unit for application with transmission shaft subjected to radial loads, comprising a box-like body inside which a gear system is accommodated for the transmission of rotary motion from a driving shaft to a transmission shaft, which is provided with an output reduction stage of the epicyclic type; the output reduction stage comprises a driving sun gear which rotates about a main axis and a ring gear which is integrally associated with the box-like body, between which multiple planet gears are engaged which are supported in rotation about respective longitudinal axes which are parallel to the main axis by a transmission planet carrier, which in turn rotates about the main axis and is associated so as to be integral in rotation with the transmission shaft at a connection region. The reduction unit furthermore provides for rolling means adapted to support radial loads associated with the transmission shaft.