Hybrid Plain and Elastomeric Bearing for Angular Displacement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Elastomeric bearings used in aircraft applications are prone to damage when subjected to excessive angular displacement, leading to premature wear and failure due to the inability to effectively manage torque and rotational stresses beyond a certain limit.
Innovation Solution
A bearing assembly comprising an inner plain bearing section with an inner and outer ring, and an outer elastomeric bearing section formed as a laminated structure with alternating flexible and rigid laminae, allowing for angular displacement while preventing relative movement between the rings, thereby distributing torque and reducing stress on the elastomeric section.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If elastomeric bearings are used to support pivoting or twisting motions, then the bearing can accommodate angular displacement, but the elastomeric layers become damaged after prolonged use when angular displacement exceeds a certain magnitude
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing is divided into two distinct sections: an inner plain bearing section with inner and outer rings that handle high-angle displacements through sliding motion, and an outer elastomeric bearing section that handles limited angular displacements through flexing. This segmentation allows each section to operate within its optimal range, preventing elastomeric damage while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing assembly dynamically transitions between different operational modes based on the magnitude of angular displacement. For small angles, the elastomeric section flexes to accommodate motion. For larger angles, the plain bearing section engages through sliding contact, preventing overstress on the elastomeric layers while maintaining continuous motion capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the elastomeric bearing section flexes to accommodate angular displacement about the second axis, then the bearing maintains flexibility, but torque distribution becomes uneven causing premature wear
Solution Approach 1:
The inner plain bearing section acts as an intermediary that receives and distributes torque from the elastomeric bearing section. When the elastomeric section flexes during angular displacement, the plain bearing's sliding surfaces provide a controlled interface that evenly distributes the resulting torque loads, preventing concentration of stress at specific points in the elastomeric layers.
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 solution enhances the durability and performance of the bearing assembly by allowing for flexible movement and torque distribution, preventing damage from excessive angular displacement and extending the lifespan of the elastomeric bearings.
Implementation Method 1
The laminated bearing section is configured such that at least a portion of the laminated bearing section flexes when torque on the first and second members is less than a predetermined value
Implementation Method 2
The inner ring bearing surface or the outer ring bearing surface is slidable against the other bearing surface when the movable one of the first and second members angularly displaces about the first axis
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A bearing assembly is for movably coupling first (1) and second members (2), one being movable relative to the other. A plain bearing section includes an inner ring (16) having a bore for receiving the first member and an outer cylindrical bearing surface. An outer ring (22) is disposed about the inner ring and has an inner cylindrical bearing surface disposed against the inner ring bearing surface, one bearing surface sliding against the other when the movable member displaces about a first axis. The two rings engage to prevent relative displacement between the rings when the movable member displaces about a second axis. An elastomeric bearing section (14) is disposed about the plain bearing section, is connected with the second member and is formed such that at least a portion of the elastomeric bearing section flexes when the movable member angularly displaces about the second axis.