Rotation Unit Bearing Clearance Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotation units for rock drilling require complex and time-consuming processes to adjust bearing clearance and pre-load, which can change due to settlement and wear, affecting the operation of the drilling equipment.
Innovation Solution
A novel rotation unit with a laterally accessible axial adjusting space and half-elements that can be easily installed and secured to maintain adjusted bearing clearance and pre-load, allowing for quick adjustment and inspection without disassembling the structure, and capable of withstanding high torque loads and stress pulses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional bearing adjustment methods are used, then bearing clearance can be adjusted, but the process is complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device is segmented into modular components: a adjustment device that can be independently mounted on the shaft, separate from the bearing assembly. This allows the adjustment mechanism to be serviced separately and simplifies the overall adjustment process by isolating the complex adjustment functions to a dedicated module rather than integrating them throughout the bearing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary adjustment device is introduced between the shaft and the bearing assembly. This adjustment device includes adjustment elements that can be manipulated to modify bearing clearance, serving as a mediator that translates operator input into precise bearing position changes without requiring direct disassembly of the bearing itself.
2Ease of operation
If bearing clearance is adjusted using conventional methods, then proper operation can be ensured, but disassembly of structure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device is pre-mounted on the shaft during assembly, with adjustment elements positioned and accessible before any wear or settlement occurs. This preliminary configuration allows operators to perform adjustments at any time during operation without needing to disassemble the bearing housing or other structural components, as the adjustment interface is already prepared and accessible.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional adjustment components are used, then bearing pre-load can be adjusted, but special tools or skills are required
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device incorporates self-contained adjustment mechanisms with built-in indicators and manipulation interfaces that provide visual feedback and guide the operator through the adjustment process. The device includes features such as adjustment elements with scale markings and locking mechanisms that can be operated with standard tools, making the system self-explanatory and reducing the need for specialized training or proprietary tools.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a rotation unit and method for adjusting bearing clearance. The rotation unit includes a shaft that is rotated around its longitudinal axis by a rotating motor. The shaft is supported to a body of the rotation unit by a bearing assembly. The rotation unit further includes an adjusting arrangement for generating pre-load for the bearing assembly and adjusting bearing clearance. The adjusting arrangement includes an axial adjusting space and at least one pair of half-elements arranged between axial adjusting surfaces limiting the adjusting space.