Adjustable Levelling Pad Thread Geometry for Higher Load Capacity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing adjustable levelling pads have a limited load capacity due to the shear strength of screw threads, which restricts their ability to support the weight of machines and withstand mechanical loads such as wind and seismic forces.

Innovation Solution

The adjustable levelling pad design features a first component with a thread start angle greater than 40° and a second component with a thread entrance angle less than 35°, increasing the number of engaged threads and distributing the load effectively, along with a third component that adjusts to accommodate deviations and provides a wide range of inclinations, enhancing the load capacity and adjustment range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional screw threads are used in adjustable levelling pads, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the load capacity is limited due to shear strength constraints

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload capacityVSAvoidthread geometry complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the thread geometry parameters - specifically using a thread start angle greater than 40° and a thread entrance angle less than 35°. These parameter changes increase the number of engaged threads and improve load distribution, thereby increasing the load capacity of the adjustable levelling pad while maintaining the basic screw thread structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If the number of engaged threads is increased to improve load capacity, then the load distribution improves, but the adjustment range and ease of operation are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload distributionVSAvoidadjustment range
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction through parameter changes in thread geometry. The thread start angle greater than 40° and thread entrance angle less than 35° are optimized to achieve both increased load capacity and maintained adjustability. This allows the pad to support heavy loads while still providing a sufficient adjustment range for installation and positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20220243861A1Adjustable levelling pad
Publication Date: 2022.08.04 AB SKF SKF PATENT DEPARTMENT
  • US20220243861A1 patent drawing
  • US20220243861A1 patent drawing
  • US20220243861A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An adjustable levelling pad includes a first component provided with first screw threads, a second component provided with second screw threads cooperating with the first screw threads of the first component and a third component having a bearing surface cooperating with the first component. The thread entrance angle of the second screw threads of the second component is less than 35°.