Segmented Spring Slide Bearing for Dynamic Load Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide bearings struggle to effectively absorb both normal and fluctuating loads while minimizing wear, especially in dynamic environments like vessels exposed to wind, current, and wave influences, and require complex and costly maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A spring slide bearing design featuring multiple elastic elements with varying modulus of elasticity, where the softest element absorbs normal loads and the hardest element handles peak loads, with a restricting mechanism to prevent over-compression and facilitate gradual load transfer, allowing for easy maintenance and lubrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single material with medium hardness is used in the bearing, then it can function under both normal and peak loads, but wear increases due to compromise material selection
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing insert is divided into multiple elastic elements with different hardness levels (soft, medium, hard) arranged in sequence along the load path. Each element handles specific load ranges, allowing the softest element to absorb normal loads while harder elements engage during peak loads, eliminating the need for compromise material selection and reducing overall wear.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the bearing insert have different material properties - softer regions near the bearing surface for normal operation, and progressively harder regions deeper inside for peak load conditions. This local variation in material hardness allows each zone to optimize its function without compromising the entire bearing.
2Reliability
If multiple elastic elements with different modulus of elasticity are used, then load absorption is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing insert is segmented into multiple elastic elements with different hardness levels arranged in sequence along the load path. Each element has a specific function - softer elements engage first under normal loads, while harder elements engage progressively under increasing loads. This segmentation allows sophisticated load management without requiring complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple elastic elements with different properties are merged into a single integrated bearing insert structure. The elements are arranged concentrically or in layers, sharing common mounting surfaces and load paths, which simplifies the overall structure compared to using separate bearing components while still achieving progressive load absorption.
3Reliability
If existing slide bearing designs are used in vessels, then support function is provided, but maintenance costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing insert is designed as a modular component that can be independently replaced within the bearing housing. The segmented elastic elements allow for targeted replacement of only the worn softer elements while retaining the harder inner elements, reducing maintenance scope and cost compared to replacing entire bearing assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer softer elastic elements are designed as consumable components that wear preferentially but can be easily replaced. These elements are made from cost-effective materials and can be swapped out during routine maintenance without requiring specialized procedures, while the inner harder elements provide long-term structural support.
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
The bearing effectively absorbs varying loads, reduces wear, and extends service life by allowing for the use of medium-hard materials that are functional across a range of load conditions, while simplifying maintenance and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
The bearing insert comprises two or more elastic elements with different modulus of elasticity mounted behind one another... the softest elastic element will absorb the lowest loads, while the extreme loads will be absorbed by the hardest elastic element
Implementation Method 2
The bearing surfaces will normally be covered by a lubricant which is used in order to facilitate the relative movement between the elements, reduce the wear on the bearing surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A resilient (slide) bearing device, for example for use in connection with support of a rotating element in a vessel, where the bearing insert comprises devices for gradual absorption of loads to which the bearing is exposed. This is achieved by the devices for gradual absorption of loads comprising two or more elastic elements with different modulus of elasticity, where the elements are furthermore placed in layers. A method for maintenance and service of the device is also presented.