Self-Aligning Linear Bearing with Open Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear motion bearing systems face challenges in efficiently distributing load and maintaining alignment due to rigid designs that lack self-alignment capabilities, leading to increased manufacturing costs and potential misalignment issues.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a linear motion bearing system with open axial rolling element tracks, load-bearing outer races, and a rail with recesses that match the bearing rolling elements, allowing for self-alignment and improved load distribution through a modular design that reduces manufacturing complexity and enhances assembly efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid design is used in the linear motion bearing system, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the system lacks self-alignment capabilities and is sensitive to misalignment issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the rail by introducing recesses with specific curvature radii that match the rolling elements. This allows the rail to deform elastically and accommodate misalignment while maintaining precise bearing operation, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and adaptability
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid bearing structure is used, then structural stability is maintained, but load distribution becomes inefficient and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing system is segmented into modular components including the rail with recesses, outer races, and rolling elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for both stability and manufacturability, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic characteristics to the previously rigid structure by allowing the rail to deform elastically through the recesses. This dynamic capability improves load distribution efficiency while the modular design keeps manufacturing costs manageable
3Reliability
If traditional closed tracks are used, then bearing stability is maintained, but assembly complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The closed track is segmented into open sections with recesses that allow rolling elements to be inserted from the ends. This segmentation dramatically simplifies assembly while the interconnection of segments maintains the structural stability and reliability of the bearing system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the closure from the traditional closed track design, creating open tracks that are easier to assemble. The open design allows for simpler manufacturing and assembly while the overall system configuration maintains the necessary bearing stability
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
This solution enables efficient load distribution, reduces manufacturing costs, and provides self-alignment capabilities, improving the bearing's performance and tolerance for misalignments, resulting in a more reliable and cost-effective linear motion bearing system.
Implementation Method 1
a rolling element retainer structure having at least a portion of a plurality of open axial rolling element tracks formed therein, the rolling element tracks including an open load bearing portion, an open return portion and turnarounds interconnecting the load bearing and return portions
Implementation Method 2
the rail including at least one recess sized and shaped so as to be mateable with at least one of the bearing rolling elements
Data Source
AI summary
A linear motion bearing system comprising a rolling element retainer structure having at least a portion of a plurality of open axial rolling element tracks formed therein. The rolling element tracks including an open load-bearing portion, an open return portion and turnarounds interconnecting the load bearing and return portions. A plurality of bearing rolling elements are disposed in the rolling element tracks. A plurality of load bearing outer races are axially positioned adjacent the rolling element retainer structure for receiving load from the rolling elements disposed in the load-bearing portion of the rolling element tracks. An outer housing sleeve is effective to hold the rolling element retainer structure. A rail is effective to mate with the rolling element retainer structure, the rail including at least one recess sized and shaped so as to be mateable with at least one of the bearing rolling elements.