Segmented Bearing Cage with Flexible Coupling for Assembly Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roller bearings with segmented cages face challenges in handling and assembly, as individual cage segments lack connection, making them difficult to transport and install without falling apart, and are susceptible to disruptive vibrations.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates retaining sections on cage segments to limit radial mobility of rolling elements, using a flexible coupling element like a rope to connect segments, and materials with thermal expansion coefficients matching steel to ensure stability and secure attachment, allowing for disassembly and reassembly of bearing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cage segments are not connected, then the bearing can be easily disassembled and reassembled, but the bearing components may fall apart during handling and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The cage is divided into multiple cage segments that can be separately assembled onto the rolling elements, allowing easy assembly and disassembly of the bearing while maintaining structural integrity during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The cage segments are pre-assembled onto the rolling elements before final bearing assembly, ensuring that the rolling elements are securely retained within the cage structure before the bearing is handled or transported
2Stability of the object's composition
If cage segments are connected rigidly, then the bearing structure is stable during operation, but the cage cannot absorb vibrations and may be disrupted by bearing vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible coupling element (such as a flexible membrane or elastic connector) is used to connect the cage segments, allowing the cage structure to maintain stability while absorbing vibrations and dynamic loads during bearing operation
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing the cage segments to move slightly relative to each other in response to vibrations and dynamic loads, thereby dissipating harmful vibrations while maintaining overall structural stability
3Stability of the object's composition
If a one-piece cage is used, then the bearing is structurally simple and stable, but the cage weight is high and mounting is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cage is segmented into multiple lightweight sections that can be separately manufactured and assembled, reducing overall cage weight and simplifying mounting operations while maintaining structural stability through the coupling elements
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
Enables secure handling and installation of roller bearings by preventing components from detaching during assembly and operation, maintaining stability under vibrations, and optimizing thermal expansion for improved performance and load handling.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling element is preferably a component capable of transmitting tensile forces but largely flexible
Implementation Method 2
the cage segments are made of a material whose coefficient of thermal expansion lies within a tolerance range of +/- 15% compared to the coefficient of thermal expansion of steel
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a rolling-element bearing (1), comprising at least one inner ring (2) and at least one outer ring, wherein a number of rolling elements (4) are arranged between the bearing rings, wherein the rolling elements are retained by a cage, wherein the cage comprises a number of cage segments (5), wherein each cage segment comprises a frame-shaped structure, several lateral bounding walls (6, 8) of the frame-shaped structure forming an accommodating pocket for a rolling element, wherein at least one fastening element (11, 12) is arranged on each cage segment and wherein the cage segments can be connected at least at times by means of a coupling element, for which purpose the coupling element is brought into engagement with the fastening elements. In order to make the handling of the bearing easier in a simpler manner, in particular during the assembly of the bearing, the fastening elements, according to the invention, are designed at least partially, preferably completely, as closed eyelets, through which the coupling element can be threaded.