Sensor-Integrated Sliding Bearing Layer Structure Against Mechanical Damage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sliding bearing technologies face challenges in effectively integrating sensors to monitor operating parameters due to environmental and mechanical conditions, particularly the influence of rotating components, which can damage the measuring devices and affect their accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A sliding bearing element with a multilayer structure comprising a first electrical insulating layer, a sensor layer, and a second electrical insulating layer, where the sensor layer is protected by a sliding layer deposited using PVD methods or anti-friction varnish, and equipped with a running-in layer to enhance tribological properties and mechanical resilience, allowing for better detection of operating parameters and protection against mechanical influences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sensor is integrated directly into the sliding bearing structure, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor becomes vulnerable to mechanical damage from rotating components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor measurement accuracyVSAvoidmechanical damage to sensor

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor is nested within a protective structure that integrates it into the sliding bearing assembly. The sensor is positioned within the bearing structure but shielded from direct exposure to rotating components, allowing measurement while protecting against mechanical damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

A protective layer or intermediate structure is introduced between the sensor and the rotating components. This intermediary element transmits mechanical parameters to the sensor while preventing direct contact and damage from rotating parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If protective layers are added around the sensor, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor protectionVSAvoidmultilayer structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective layers serve multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical protection, electrical insulation, and tribological protection. By designing layers that perform multiple functions, the overall device complexity is reduced despite the multilayer structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Different layers are made from composite materials or material combinations that provide multiple properties in a single structure. For example, layers combining electrical insulation with mechanical strength and tribological properties reduce the need for separate protective components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If a sliding layer is deposited on the measuring device, then tribological properties are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetribological propertiesVSAvoidPVD deposition process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The deposition of the sliding layer is combined with the sensor integration process. The protective sliding layer is deposited over the sensor in the same manufacturing sequence, merging two operations into one continuous process and reducing overall manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution provides enhanced protection and accuracy for the measuring device, enabling early detection of damage and improved operational reliability by using PVD or anti-friction varnish layers, which maintain tribological properties and reduce the risk of delamination, while allowing for wireless data transmission and energy self-sufficiency.

Implementation Method 1

the sliding layer is a layer deposited by means of a PVD method, in particular it is a sputtering layer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical Vapour Deposition: Physical Vapour Deposition

Implementation Method 2

a sensor layer (6), in particular a sensor layer having a piezoresistive effect

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoresistive effect: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11486441B2Sliding bearing element

Publication Date: 2022.11.01 MIBA GLEITLAGER AUSTRIA GMBH

AI summary

A sliding bearing element with a first layer having a radially inner surface includes a measuring device arranged on the radially inner surface of the first layer. The measuring device includes, in the order indicated, a first electrical insulating layer, a sensor layer and a second electrical insulating layer. A sliding layer is arranged on the second electrical insulating layer.