Modular Cage Segments with Rolling Element Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling element bearings face limitations in flexibility, manufacturing costs, and speed capability due to rigid cage designs and the use of separate spacers, which can lead to high contact forces and disengagement issues under centrifugal forces.
Innovation Solution
A modular assembly of releasably connectable cage segments, where rolling elements act as locking mechanisms, allowing for flexible design, reduced manufacturing costs, and enhanced rigidity without additional parts like screws or pins, and facilitating assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a one-piece cage design is used, then structural rigidity is improved, but manufacturing flexibility and cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The cage is divided into multiple separable segments that can be manufactured independently and assembled together. Each segment can be produced using optimized manufacturing processes, and the segments are connected through coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows for greater manufacturing flexibility and adaptability while maintaining the structural integrity of the complete cage assembly.
2Ease of operation
If individual spacers are used between rolling elements, then ease of assembly is improved, but speed capability is worsened due to centrifugal forces
Solution Approach 1:
The cage segments and coupling mechanism are integrated into a unified structure where the coupling elements are built-in features of the segments themselves. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly steps while creating a rigid structure that can withstand centrifugal forces at high speeds. The coupling mechanism is designed to maintain structural integrity under rotational loads.
3Reliability
If additional fastening parts like screws or pins are used to connect cage segments, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is integrated directly into the cage segment structure, with coupling elements formed as built-in features of the segments themselves. This eliminates the need for separate fastening parts like screws or pins, reducing the total number of components while maintaining reliable connections. The integrated design simplifies manufacturing and assembly processes.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cage segments are made separable for flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but risk of disengagement under centrifugal forces is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is pre-configured with interlocking features that automatically engage when segments are assembled. The design includes preliminary positioning elements and locking features that prevent disengagement before centrifugal forces act on the structure. This preliminary action ensures that the segments remain securely connected under operational loads.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for a rolling element bearing, the assembly including a first cage segment and a second cage segment which are releasably connectable to one another, and at least one rolling element. The assembly further comprises a cage pocket for receiving the at least one rolling element. The cage pocket is at least partly defined by a cage pocket wall of at least one of the first cage segment and the second cage segment. The assembly is such that, when the at least one rolling element is in the cage pocket, the at least one rolling element prevents the first cage segment and the second cage segment from being releasably disengaged. A rolling element bearing can incorporate such an assembly.