Speed Reducer Preload System Using Elastic Wedge Effect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing speed reducer technologies require specific interfaces and statistical calculations for shimming, leading to increased assembly time and potential loss of preload over the machine's life, necessitating case-by-case adjustments and resulting in reduced prestress and noise due to play in rolling bearings.
Innovation Solution
A preload system comprising two spacer elements with an elastically deformable element between them, which transitions from a prestressed state to a relaxed state, generating a unidirectional rotational movement and axial preload in rolling bearings through a wedge effect, reducing assembly time and maintaining preload as mechanical parts wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shimming is used to preload rolling bearings, then preload can be achieved, but assembly time increases due to case-by-case adjustments and statistical calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The preload system automatically adjusts and maintains bearing preload through the elastic element's relaxation, eliminating the need for manual shimming adjustments. The system self-regulates the preload force as mechanical parts wear, maintaining consistent performance without operator intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element is pre-stressed during assembly to a first state, storing potential energy that will be gradually released. This preliminary action ensures preload is immediately established and then automatically maintained throughout operation without requiring subsequent adjustments.
2Reliability
If shimming is used to preload rolling bearings, then preload can be achieved, but preload is lost over time as mechanical parts wear
Solution Approach 1:
The preload system transitions from a static shimming approach to a dynamic system where the elastic element continuously adapts to wear. As mechanical parts wear and gaps increase, the elastic element gradually relaxes from its first state to a second state, automatically maintaining optimal preload throughout the service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous feedback through the elastic element's stress state. As mechanical parts wear and bearing gaps change, the elastic element's relaxation state automatically adjusts to compensate, creating a self-regulating feedback mechanism that maintains preload consistency.
3Manufacturing precision
If specific interfaces are designed for each reduction gear pair, then precise preload can be achieved, but device complexity increases due to multiple reference parts
Solution Approach 1:
The preload system with elastic elements serves multiple functions: it provides initial preload, compensates for wear over time, and adapts to varying mechanical conditions. This universal system can be applied across different reduction gear pairs without requiring custom-designed interface parts for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains precision through parameter changes in the elastic element's stress state rather than through varied interface geometries. By adjusting the elastic element's relaxation from first to second state, the system adapts to different wear conditions while using the same physical interface components.
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 reduces assembly time, minimizes loss of preload, and decreases noise from bearing play, providing consistent and long-lasting prestress in rolling bearings across various machines.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastically deformable element interposed between the two spacer elements which is configured to be able to occupy a first prestressed state and a second at least partially relaxed state
Implementation Method 2
by a wedge effect, generates a preload in the rolling hearings
Data Source
AI summary
A speed reducer including a shaft extending along an axis, two rolling bearings arranged around the shaft, the two rolling bearings each including a radially outer ring, a radially inner ring and rolling elements arranged between the outer and inner rings. The speed reducer includes a preload system positioned between the two rolling bearings and which includes: two spacer elements each one resting against one of the rings of the rolling bearings, at least one elastically deformable element interposed between the two spacing elements, and configured to occupy a preloaded first state and an least partially relaxed second state, the preload system arranged such that the transition of the at least one elastically deformable element from the first to the second state causes a unidirectional rotational movement of each spacer element with respect to the other so as to use a wedge effect to generate preload in the rolling bearings.