Two-Part Bearing Support for Axial Force Transmission
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bearing arrangements face challenges in transmitting high forces in both axial directions due to manufacturing complexities, high preload requirements, and dimensional tolerances issues caused by hardening, leading to potential disconnection and increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A two-part bearing support with semicircular recesses engaging with circumferential grooves on the outer rings of the bearings, allowing for a stable connection that transmits forces in both axial directions, using hardened materials without significant manufacturing tolerances, and connecting the parts via welding or soldering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the bearing support is hardened to achieve high preload force, then the strength increases, but the dimensional and shape tolerances worsen due to hardening distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing support is divided into two separate parts (first and second bearing support parts) that are assembled around the bearings. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured and hardened independently, minimizing the impact of hardening distortion on overall dimensional tolerances while still achieving the required strength and preload force.
2Ease of manufacture
If the bearing support is formed as a single deep-drawn component, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the ability to transmit high forces in both axial directions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing support is segmented into two parts that can be manufactured using cost-effective processes and then assembled. This segmentation enables the structure to transmit high forces in both axial directions through the distributed gripping sections, while maintaining ease of manufacture through simple forming processes for each individual part.
3Ease of operation
If the bearing support uses a snap-fit connection with inertial groove, then the assembly is simplified, but the connection reliability worsens under high pull-off forces
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing support is divided into two parts with gripping sections that engage with the bearings from opposite directions. This segmentation creates a more reliable connection that can resist high pull-off forces in both axial directions, while still maintaining relatively simple assembly through the gripping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping sections are specifically designed with local geometric features that optimize the engagement with the bearing outer rings. This local quality enhancement ensures reliable connection under high loads while keeping the overall assembly process simple.
4Force
If the bearing support requires high manufacturing precision to compensate for hardening distortion, then the force transmission capability improves, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the bearing support into two parts, the patent reduces the impact of hardening distortion on overall dimensional tolerances. Each part can be manufactured with relaxed tolerances using cost-effective processes, yet the assembled structure maintains the capability to transmit high forces through the distributed gripping sections.
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 a cost-effective production method that ensures high force transmission in both axial directions, simplifies assembly, and reduces manufacturing complexities, making it suitable for applications like automotive transmissions.
Implementation Method 1
connecting the parts via welding or soldering
Implementation Method 2
connecting the parts via welding or soldering
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The arrangement has two bearings e.g. ball bearings (2, 3), which are held in a bearing support (1) and are arranged parallel to each other in the support. The bearings are of same axial height, and the support is formed of two parts (1`, 1``) that are permanently connected with each other. The two parts of the bearing support include two adjacent recesses (7-10) with semicircular contour in an area of a parting plane.