Oblique Running Surface Bearing for Lubrication Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Rolling-element bearings with line contact face challenges in distributing lubricant evenly, leading to inadequate lubrication in the central region of the contact line, particularly in radial needle roller bearings where needle rollers are not well-supported and may be partially covered by the bearing seat.

Innovation Solution

The configuration of obliquely extending running surfaces in specific partial regions of the bearing, combined with lubricant channels, ensures that lubricant can reach all parts of the rolling elements, including the central region, by periodically exposing and covering different sections, thereby improving lubrication and support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the running surface width is reduced in the first circumferential partial region to allow lubricant access, then lubrication is improved, but bearing support capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelubrication qualityVSAvoidbearing support capability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The bearing is divided into different circumferential regions: a first partial region with narrowed running surfaces for lubricant access, and a second partial region with full running surfaces for load bearing. This segmentation allows each region to serve its specific function optimally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the bearing are given different running surface widths according to their functional requirements. The first partial region has narrowed surfaces for lubrication, while the second partial region has full surfaces for support, creating local optimization throughout the bearing structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If the running surface is configured obliquely to expose central regions, then lubricant distribution is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelubricant distributionVSAvoidrunning surface configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The running surfaces are configured with oblique angles rather than parallel to the rolling direction. This curved/angled configuration allows lubricant to reach the central regions of rolling elements during rotation, improving lubrication without requiring complex internal channels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Loss of substance

If running surfaces are narrowed in the first partial region, then material and weight are reduced, but lubricant access is improved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematerial usageVSAvoidlubricant access

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The running surfaces are narrowed only in the first circumferential partial region where lubricant access is needed, while maintaining full width in the second partial region. This localized modification reduces material usage and improves lubrication simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9759259B2Rolling-element bearing having an oblique running surface section

Publication Date: 2017.09.12 AB SKF SKF PATENT DEPARTMENT

AI summary

A rolling-element bearing with line contact includes bearing inner and outer parts having running surfaces, and at least one rolling element is disposed between and makes line contact with the bearing inner and outer parts. A width of the outer running surface and/or a width of the inner running surface is narrower at least in a first circumferential partial region than a length of the rolling-element, and in the first partial region the bearing outer part running surface and/or the bearing inner part running surface extends obliquely to a rolling direction of the at least one rolling element.