Sensor Bearing Assembly Using Ceramic Rolling Elements for Wireless Data
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bearing apparatuses with wireless communication functions face challenges in transmitting data without providing a space for radio wave propagation, which can lead to interference with other mechanisms, accuracy issues, and increased costs due to complex shapes required to avoid interference.
Innovation Solution
A bearing apparatus with a non-magnetic region between the inner and outer rings, allowing electromagnetic wave transmission without the need for a dedicated space, using silicon nitride or other non-magnetic materials for rolling elements and a communication module that self-generates power, ensuring data can be wirelessly transmitted without compromising mechanical integrity or accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a space (hole or groove) is provided in the housing for radio wave propagation, then wireless data transmission is enabled, but interference with cooling mechanisms occurs and housing shape accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A non-magnetic material (such as a non-magnetic ring or coating) is introduced as an intermediary component between the housing and the bearing. This intermediary creates a non-magnetic region that allows radio wave propagation without requiring modifications to the housing structure, thus maintaining housing shape accuracy while enabling wireless communication.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of modifying the entire housing structure to create propagation spaces, the invention applies non-magnetic material locally in specific regions where radio waves need to pass through. This localized approach enables wireless transmission while preserving the overall structural integrity and manufacturing precision of the housing.
2Reliability
If a space is provided in the housing for radio wave propagation, then wireless communication is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The non-magnetic material serves as a simple intermediary component that can be easily integrated into the bearing assembly without complex housing modifications. This approach reduces device complexity compared to creating holes or grooves in the housing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-magnetic material is combined with the bearing assembly itself (either as part of the bearing structure or as a separate component mounted on the bearing), merging the wireless communication function with the existing mechanical components rather than requiring separate housing modifications.
3Loss of information
If electrical wires are used for data transmission, then data can be transmitted, but interference with other mechanisms occurs and assembly ease deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical electrical wire connection system with a wireless electromagnetic communication system. By using a wireless sensor with antenna and non-magnetic material for signal propagation, the complex wire routing and connection assembly is eliminated, significantly improving assembly ease while maintaining data transmission capability.
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 wireless data transmission from sensors within the bearing apparatus without the need for additional space, preventing interference with other mechanisms and maintaining accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
A non-magnetic region for passage of electromagnetic waves is formed in any region between an inside surface of the housing and the inner ring
Data Source
AI summary
A bearing apparatus includes two bearings that rotatably support a main spindle, a spacer arranged between the two bearings, and a communication module arranged in the spacer. The bearing includes an inner ring and an outer ring made of a metal and a plurality of rolling elements arranged between the inner ring and the outer ring. The communication module contains a plurality of sensors and a communication apparatus that wirelessly transmits a result of detection by the sensors. An outer dimension of the inner ring of the bearing is set to be smaller than an inner dimension of the outer ring of the bearing. The rolling element is made of silicon nitride through which electromagnetic waves can pass.