Variable Torque Bearing Seal Axial Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling bearing assemblies face challenges in adjusting seal positioning to vary sealing characteristics and drag torque, which are affected by rotational speed and pressure force, leading to undesirable friction and heat generation.
Innovation Solution
A rolling bearing assembly with an axially adjustable seal featuring a radially inner ring with a first circumferentially extending seal groove and a radially outer ring with a second seal groove and hydraulic fluid gallery, allowing the seal to move axially between contact and disengagement positions via pressurized hydraulic fluid, reducing drag torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the radially inner end of the seal is pressed against the radially inner ring to improve sealing characteristics, then sealing performance is improved, but drag torque increases due to friction and heat generation
Solution Approach 1:
The seal's axial position is made dynamically adjustable through hydraulic pressure applied to the radially outer end of the seal. This allows the seal to move between a first position (contacting the radially inner ring for sealing) and a second position (disengaged to reduce drag torque), enabling dynamic optimization based on operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The axial position parameter of the seal is changed by applying hydraulic pressure to the radially outer end. This parameter change allows transition between contact and disengagement states, optimizing the balance between sealing performance and drag torque reduction
2Loss of energy
If the seal is disengaged from the radially inner ring to reduce drag torque, then energy loss is reduced, but sealing characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The seal position is dynamically controlled through hydraulic pressure applied to the radially outer end, allowing transition between disengaged state (reducing drag torque) and engaged state (maintaining sealing), enabling the system to adapt to varying operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The seal can be periodically engaged and disengaged based on operational needs, with hydraulic pressure controlling the timing and duration of each state, allowing optimization of both sealing performance and energy efficiency during different phases of operation
3Device complexity
If a fixed seal position is used to simplify the structure, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying operating conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The radially outer end of the seal serves multiple functions: it is engaged within the second circumferentially extending seal groove for structural support, and simultaneously acts as a hydraulic actuator surface for axial position adjustment. This multi-functionality enables adaptability without adding separate positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Hydraulic pressure applied to the radially outer end of the seal provides a simple yet effective means of axial position control. This hydraulic actuation mechanism enables adaptable seal positioning while maintaining relatively simple device structure, as the hydraulic system can be integrated into the existing bearing assembly
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 adjustable sealing characteristics and reduced drag torque by allowing the seal to disengage from the radially inner ring under pressurized conditions, minimizing friction and heat generation, thus improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one hydraulic fluid gallery is supplied with pressurized hydraulic fluid, and the at least one seal is moved outwardly in an axial direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A rolling bearing assembly including at least one hydraulic fluid gallery for adjusting at least one seal is provided. The rolling bearing assembly includes a radially inner ring and outer ring. The radially outer ring includes a first circumferentially extending seal groove. The radially outer ring includes a second circumferentially extending seal groove having a pressure groove therein, and at least one hydraulic fluid gallery including an inlet and an outlet connected to the pressure groove. The at least one seal includes a radially outer end engaged within the second circumferentially extending seal groove, and a radially inner end located in the first circumferentially extending seal groove, and the pressure groove is located inside of an axial end face of the at least one seal.