Split Ring Track Roller Bearings for Aircraft Wing Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft wing actuation systems face challenges in optimizing the performance of track roller bearings due to space constraints and the need for robust components that can handle multiple load conditions while minimizing maintenance and weight.
Innovation Solution
The use of split inner and outer ring track roller assemblies with rolling elements, which include a split inner ring and multiple rows of rolling elements in rolling engagement, and a single piece inner ring positioned within a two-piece outer ring, designed to accommodate bending loads and reduce friction, are employed in the actuation system of aircraft wings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple load conditions are realized by track roller bearings in aircraft wing actuation systems, then the reliability and performance of the system is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple bearing assemblies into a single integrated track roller bearing system. The bearing assembly includes an outer ring, inner ring, and multiple rows of rolling elements that can simultaneously handle radial loads, axial loads, and moment loads. This merging of multiple load-carrying capabilities into one unified structure improves reliability while reducing the number of separate components needed in the actuation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The track roller bearing is designed with multi-functional capability to handle various types of loads simultaneously. The bearing assembly can accommodate radial loads through the rolling elements, axial loads through the raceway geometry, and moment loads through the split inner ring configuration. This universal load-carrying capability allows a single component to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate bearings, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Strength
If robust bearing components are used to handle multiple load conditions, then the strength and durability are improved, but the weight of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material construction in the bearing assembly, utilizing high-strength steel alloys for the rings and rolling elements that provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratios. The outer ring and inner ring are made from engineered composite materials that maintain structural integrity under multiple load conditions while minimizing mass. This allows the bearing to be both robust and lightweight, resolving the contradiction between strength and weight.
3Adaptability or versatility
If split inner ring configuration is used to accommodate bending loads, then the adaptability to load conditions is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is divided into two separate segments or halves that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows each half to be precisely manufactured to tight tolerances, and the split configuration provides flexibility to accommodate bending loads and moment loads. The segmentation approach enables better control over manufacturing precision while maintaining adaptability to various load conditions, as each segment can be optimized independently for its specific function.
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 configuration enhances the performance of track roller bearings by accommodating bending loads, reducing friction, and eliminating contact with opposing bushings, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of the actuation system while minimizing the need for heavy greasing systems and reducing weight and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
track roller assembly which includes a split inner ring and a plurality of rolling elements in rolling engagement with the split inner ring
Implementation Method 2
use of split inner and outer ring track roller assemblies with rolling elements, which include a split inner ring and multiple rows of rolling elements in rolling engagement
Data Source
AI summary
A track roller assembly includes a split inner ring, a split outer ring, a one piece inner ring and/or a one piece outer ring and a liner or plurality of rolling elements engaging therewith, the track roller assembly being disposed in a structure of an Airbus A-350 aircraft, an Airbus A-320 aircraft, an Airbus A320Neo aircraft, an Airbus A330 aircraft, an Airbus A330Neo aircraft, an Airbus A321 aircraft, an Airbus A340 aircraft, and an Airbus A380 aircraft.