Taper Lock Bearing Assembly V-Shape Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bearing assemblies face challenges in securely locking spherical roller bearings to shafts, particularly with eccentric locking collars that require cutting torch removal and damage the bearings, and tapered adapters that compromise running clearance and axial load handling.
Innovation Solution
A clamping arrangement using a pair of tapered adapters forming a V-shaped configuration to create an interference fit between the bearing inner ring and shaft, with a split nut to provide additional clamping force, ensuring secure locking and correct clearance without pre-loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an eccentric locking collar is used to hold the bearing housing to the shaft, then the bearing can accommodate axial loads, but the bearing cannot be removed without a cutting torch and the bearing is damaged during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into two separate tapered adapters (first and second) that can be independently inserted and removed from opposite sides of the bearing assembly, allowing the bearing to be released without damaging it while still providing strong axial load capacity when both adapters are engaged
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single locking collar that requires cutting for removal, the invention uses two tapered adapters that are inserted from opposite directions and can be independently removed by pushing against their respective tapered surfaces, reversing the conventional approach to bearing locking
2Ease of operation
If a tapered adapter is used to lock the bearing housing to the shaft, then the bearing can be easily removed, but the running clearance of the bearing is reduced and axial load handling is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single tapered adapter is segmented into two separate tapered adapters with opposite taper directions, allowing each adapter to engage with the bearing from opposite sides without interfering with the bearing's internal clearance, while collectively providing enhanced axial load capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a single-dimensional tapered fit to a two-dimensional opposing tapered configuration, where the first adapter tapers in one direction and the second adapter tapers in the opposite direction, creating a balanced locking system that preserves bearing clearance
3Strength
If the tapered adapter is tightened to lock the bearing firmly in place, then the bearing is securely locked to the shaft, but the bearing is pre-loaded which adversely affects performance
Solution Approach 1:
The first tapered adapter and second tapered adapter exert opposing forces on the bearing assembly, with the first adapter applying force from one direction and the second adapter applying counterbalancing force from the opposite direction, neutralizing pre-loading effects while maintaining secure locking
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 effectively secures the bearing assembly to the shaft, maintaining correct clearance and enhancing axial load handling, allowing for easy installation and removal without damaging the bearings, and preventing pre-loading.
Implementation Method 1
The tapered sleeve and bore create an interference wedge fit that locks the bearing housing to the shaft
Implementation Method 2
the first and second tapered adapters co-operate to define an outer annular surface having a generally V-shaped configuration... to establish a locking interference fit
Data Source
AI summary
A bearing assembly lockable onto a shaft. The bearing assembly comprises a first tapered adapter defining a first axial bore for the receipt of the shaft which has an outer, annular tapered surface. There is a second tapered adapter defining a second axial bore for receipt of a sleeve portion of the first adapter. The second tapered adapter has an outer, annular tapered surface tapered at a taper angle opposite to that of the first tapered adapter such that the first and second tapered adapters co-operate to define an outer annular surface having a generally V-shaped configuration that tapers from spaced greater diameter outer ends to adjacent lesser diameter inner ends. The opposed tapered surfaces have a fixed limit in their axial travel toward each other along the shaft defined by engagement of the lesser diameter inner ends. When the tapered surfaces reach the end of their travel, the bearing supported on the tapered surfaces is tightened on the shaft with the correct clearances.