U.S. patent application number 14/568934 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-25 for method and device for manufacturing a roller bearing cage.
This patent application is currently assigned to Aktiebolaget SKF. The applicant listed for this patent is Berthold Beyfuss, Hans-Juergen Friedrich, Alfred Radina, Jonas Schierling, Gerhard Wagner. Invention is credited to Berthold Beyfuss, Hans-Juergen Friedrich, Alfred Radina, Jonas Schierling, Gerhard Wagner.
Application Number | 20150174639 14/568934 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52292616 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150174639 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Beyfuss; Berthold ; et
al. |
June 25, 2015 |
METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MANUFACTURING A ROLLER BEARING CAGE
Abstract
A method for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage
includes clamping a cage blank in the radial direction using a
clamping element in a first position where the cage blank is
processed. Then, the cage blank is rotated relative to the clamping
element to a second position where the cage blank is further
processed. A device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing
cage includes the clamping element, which remain stationary
together with a tool for processing the cage blank, while only the
cage blank is rotated.
Inventors: |
Beyfuss; Berthold;
(Wasserlosen-Kaisten, DE) ; Friedrich; Hans-Juergen;
(Koenigsberg-Roemershofen, DE) ; Radina; Alfred;
(Poppenlauer, DE) ; Schierling; Jonas; (Hassfurt,
DE) ; Wagner; Gerhard; (Prichsenstadt, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Beyfuss; Berthold
Friedrich; Hans-Juergen
Radina; Alfred
Schierling; Jonas
Wagner; Gerhard |
Wasserlosen-Kaisten
Koenigsberg-Roemershofen
Poppenlauer
Hassfurt
Prichsenstadt |
|
DE
DE
DE
DE
DE |
|
|
Assignee: |
Aktiebolaget SKF
Goteborg
SE
|
Family ID: |
52292616 |
Appl. No.: |
14/568934 |
Filed: |
December 12, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
29/898.067 ;
29/724 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16C 2220/42 20130101;
F16C 19/364 20130101; Y10T 29/49691 20150115; F16C 2220/84
20130101; F16C 33/543 20130101; B21D 28/30 20130101; Y10T 29/53104
20150115; B21D 53/12 20130101; F16C 2300/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B21D 53/12 20060101
B21D053/12 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 19, 2013 |
DE |
102013226750.9 |
Claims
1. A method (1) for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage,
comprising: clamping (2) of a cage blank (7) in the radial
direction using a clamping element (6); processing (3) of the cage
blank (7) at a first position; rotating (4) of the cage blank (7)
with respect to the clamping element (6); and processing (5) of the
cage blank (7) at a second position.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the processing (3, 5)
is a punching-out of a pocket.
3. The method (1) according to one of the preceding claims,
wherein, when an embossing of cage bridges occurs in the processing
(3, 5), the cage blank (7) is rotated with respect to the clamping
element (6) far enough until one of the cage bridges abuts on a
stop (35).
4. The method (1) according to claim 1, further comprising: fitting
of a clamping element (6) to an inner diameter of the cage blank
(7) for clamping (2) the cage blank (7).
5. The method (1) according to one of the preceding claims,
comprising: positioning of the cage blank (7) on an abutment
surface (9) such that an axial edge surface of the cage blank (7)
at least sectionally abuts on the abutment surface (9).
6. The method (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein
the cage blank (7) is clamped such that an axis of rotation (M) of
the cage blank (7) is oriented parallel to an acting weight force
of the cage blank (7).
7. A device (5) for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage,
comprising: a clamping element (6) which is configured in order to
orient a cage blank (7) in a radial direction and along its
circumferential direction with respect to a tool (8) such that the
cage blank (7) can be rotated with respect to the clamping element
(6).
8. The device (5) according to claim 7, comprising an abutment
surface (9) which is configured in order to abut at least
sectionally on an axial edge surface of the cage blank (7) and/or
an abutment surface (9) is oriented horizontally so that an axis of
rotation (M) of the cage blank (7) is oriented parallel to an
acting weight force of the cage blank (7).
9. The device (5) according to one of claim 7 or 8, wherein the
tool (8) includes a frame, which is closed on at least four sides
for processing the cage blank (7), wherein a side (31) can be
opened for insertion of the cage blank (7).
10. The device (5) according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the
clamping element (6) is adjustable to a plurality of inner
diameters of to-be-clamped cage blanks (7).
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to German patent
application no. 10 2013 226 750.9 filed on Dec. 19, 2013, the
contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Exemplary embodiments relate to a method for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing cage and to a device for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing cage.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Rolling-element bearing cages can be manufactured on
conventional devices using a variety of conventional methods. For
this purpose cage blanks are usually processed. For rolling-element
bearing cages starting from a certain diameter, these methods or
the devices required therefor are relatively expensive. In some
conventional solutions, the pockets are milled from a tubular cage
blank. In other conventional methods, cages are even milled from a
solid material. This can be the case, for example, when
corresponding devices for manufacturing these cages are very
expensive.
[0004] Such devices can be presses, for example. Due to the
geometry of the cages, these presses are often custom products. For
processing in the press, the cage blank is clamped, for example, by
a clamping element. In a first position a first pocket can then be
punched-out from the cage blank using a tool of the press. The cage
blank is then rotated by the clamping element to a second position
with respect to the tool. Subsequently, for example, a further
pocket can be punched-out from the cage blank. The press can be,
for example, a C-portal press. In order to move the cage blank with
the clamping element onward into the different positions, the
presses are often equipped with an additional indexing head. As a
result the presses can be relatively expensive to manufacture. This
can be the case, for example, in the manufacturing or processing of
large-bearing cages. Large-bearing cages usually have a diameter of
over 250 mm or even over 1000 mm.
[0005] In other cases the pockets can be cut-out from a cage blank
using, for example, a laser method. However, this may be possible
only up to a plate thickness of 10 mm.
SUMMARY
[0006] A need therefore exists to provide a concept for
manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage, by which the
manufacturing of the rolling-element bearing cage can be
simplified.
[0007] Exemplary embodiments relate to a method for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing cage. In a rolling-element bearing cage, a
cage blank is clamped in the radial direction using a clamping
element. Then the cage blank is processed at a first position. The
cage blank is rotated with respect to the clamping element. The
cage blank is processed at a second position.
[0008] Since the cage blank is rotated with respect to the clamping
element for the processing of the second position, in some
exemplary embodiments it can be made possible that the clamping
element can be configured in a simple manner and need not be
rotated with the cage blank.
[0009] Here a cage blank can be any component from which a
rolling-element bearing cage can be manufactured. For example, the
cage blank can be a tube; the cage pockets can be punched-out of
its walls. Furthermore, a cage blank can also be an
already-processed component. This can already have, for example,
pockets or individual pockets which are to be post-processed. The
cage blank or the tube can be formed as a cylinder. Alternatively
the cage blank or the tube can also be formed as a truncated cone.
The rolling-element bearing cage can be any rolling-element bearing
cage. For example, a rolling-element bearing cage can be a cage for
a cylindrical roller bearing, a tapered roller bearing, a ball
bearing, or the like.
[0010] A first position of the cage blank can be, for example, any
to-be-processed position of a cage blank. The first position can
be, for example, a position at which a pocket is to be introduced.
Furthermore, the first position can be a bridge which is to be
embossed. Furthermore, a second position of the cage blank can be
any other position of the cage blank than the first position. Here,
rotating of the cage blank with respect to the clamping element can
take place in a circumferential direction of the cage blank. Here a
circumferential direction can be a direction along an outer
diameter of the cage blank. For example, the rotating can occur
about an axis of rotation of the cage blank. Here a clamping can
occur, for example, from radially inside to radially outside. A
force acting radially outward can thus be exerted on the cage
blank. This can occur, for example, at a plurality of positions.
Under certain circumstances these positions can be selectively
spaced from one another.
[0011] In some further exemplary embodiments, the processing is a
punching-out of a pocket. In some exemplary embodiments it can thus
be made possible that a cage having side rings disposed in the
circumferential direction results from a tube segment. The side
rings can be connected, for example, by bridges. Here the pockets
can have any shape. For example, the pockets can be shaped as
rectangles, as trapezoids, or as circles. The pockets can
optionally also be formed as a projection of one of these shapes
onto an arched or curved surface. Thus in some exemplary
embodiments it can be made possible that the pockets are suited for
the holding of the corresponding rolling element, for example a
cylindrical roller, a tapered roller, or a ball. For the
punching-out, a stamp can be pressed, for example, from a
radially-inner-lying region of the cage blank through a wall of the
cage blank. A die can be disposed, for example, in a region that
lies outside the cage blank in the radial direction. For example,
the die can abut on an outer diameter of the cage blank. Rotating
of the cage blank with respect to the clamping element can occur,
for example, in any manner. For example, a stop can be provided for
this purpose. The cage blank can be rotated, for example, up to the
stop. For example, with an adjustable stop, the rotating can take
place manually using a positioning device, or can be automated
using a rotary drive.
[0012] In some further exemplary embodiments the processing is an
embossing of cage bridges. The cage blank is then rotated with
respect to the clamping element far enough until one of the cage
bridges abuts on a stop. Thus in some exemplary embodiments it can
be made possible that the cage bridge(s) can be directly positioned
for the embossing. For embossing the cage bridge, an embossing
stamp can be pressed, for example, from radially inside against the
cage blank. The embossing stamp can be, for example, a V-shaped
stamp. For example, the V-shaped stamp can be positioned in the
radial direction over a center axis of a pocket. It can thus be
made possible in some exemplary embodiments that edges of the
bridge, on which edges rolling elements could rub or jam, are
removed.
[0013] In some further exemplary embodiments, for clamping the cage
blank, a diameter of the clamping element is enlarged to an inner
diameter of the cage blank. It can thus be made possible in some
exemplary embodiments that the clamping device can be adapted to a
variety of cage blanks.
[0014] In some further exemplary embodiments the clamping device is
configured in order to clamp the cage blank in a region that later
forms a side ring disposed in the circumferential direction. In
some exemplary embodiments it can thus optionally be made possible
that the clamping device does not abut in regions of the cage blank
which are to be processed or from which material is to be
punched-out.
[0015] In some further exemplary embodiments the cage blank is
positioned on an abutment surface. Here the cage blank is
positioned on an abutment surface such that an axial edge surface
of the cage blank abuts at least sectionally on the abutment
surface. It can thus be made possible in some exemplary embodiments
that the cage blank achieves a positioning in the axial direction
due to the abutment surface. This could result in that the clamping
element can be formed more simply. This can be possible, for
example, because the clamping element optionally need not perform
the positioning in the axial direction. For example, the axial edge
surface of the cage blank can be an axially-facing edge surface of
a future side ring of the cage, which side ring is disposed
encircling in the radial direction.
[0016] In some further exemplary embodiments the cage blank is
clamped such that an axis of rotation of the cage blank is oriented
parallel to an acting weight force of the cage blank. Thus in some
exemplary embodiments it can be made possible, for example, that
the cage blank achieves a uniform deformation in the direction of
the weight force due to its own weight force. The clamping device
can thereby be formed more simply. This effect could be increased,
for example, by the cage resting on the abutment surface in the
direction of its acting weight force. For example, for this purpose
the abutment surface can be oriented perpendicular to the acting
weight force of the cage blank. Here an orientation of an axis of
rotation of the cage blank parallel to the acting weight force of
the cage blank can form an angular range. The angular range can
include a starting value and an ending value. A starting value and
an ending value of the angular range can be, for example,
0.degree., 1.degree., 2.degree., 3.degree., 4.degree., 10.degree.,
15.degree., 20.degree., 30.degree. or 45.degree..
[0017] Exemplary embodiments relate to a device for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing. The device comprises a clamping element.
The clamping element is configured in order to orient a cage blank
in the radial direction and along a circumferential direction with
respect to a tool. Here the cage can be rotated with respect to the
clamping element.
[0018] Since the cage blank can be rotated with respect to the
clamping element, in some exemplary embodiments it can be made
possible that the clamping element itself can be configured very
simply and in a non-rotatable manner. Thus in some exemplary
embodiments the entire device can be formed in a more simple
manner, since no means for rotating the clamping element need be
provided.
[0019] The tool can be, for example, a punching or embossing device
or a punching or embossing stamp. For example, the stamping or
embossing device can be hydraulically driven.
[0020] In some exemplary embodiments the clamping element can be
formed to exert a radially-outward-acting force on the cage blank.
This force can be, for example, at least 1 N, 5 N, 10 N, 100 N, 500
N, or 10,000 N. In certain circumstances the clamping element can
contact the cage blank only from radially inside. In some further
exemplary embodiments the clamping element has a slide surface. The
slide surface can be a radially-outwardly-directed surface of the
clamping element. Thus in some exemplary embodiments it can be made
possible that friction can be held as low as possible when the cage
is rotated with respect to the clamping element. In certain
circumstances the clamping element can include a plurality of slide
surfaces, for example at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or more.
These can be spaced from one another in the circumferential
direction. In certain circumstances the cage blank can spaced from
the clamping element in the circumferential direction between the
slide surfaces.
[0021] In some further exemplary embodiments the device includes an
abutment surface. The abutment surface is configured in order to
abut at least sectionally on an axial edge surface of the cage
blank. It can thus be made possible in some exemplary embodiments
that an axial aligning of the cage blank takes place by the
abutment surface. In some exemplary embodiments the clamping
element thus need not perform the axial orienting or positioning of
the cage blank. As a result, the clamping element could be formed
more simply.
[0022] In some further exemplary embodiments the abutment surface
is oriented horizontally so that an axis of rotation of the cage
blank is oriented parallel to an acting weight force of the cage
blank. Thus in some exemplary embodiments it can be made possible
that the weight force of the cage blank is supported by the
abutment surface. Deformation of the cage blank in the direction of
the weight force can thereby be at least reduced or even avoided.
For example, deformation of the cage blank in the direction of its
weight force can thereby be avoided. For example, an axis of
rotation of the cage blank, which is oriented parallel to an acting
weight force of the cage blank, can form an angle with the weight
force. The angle can fall in an angular range. The angular range
can include a starting value and an ending value. A starting- and
an ending-value of the angular range can be, for example,
0.degree., 1.degree., 2.degree., 10.degree., 20.degree., 30.degree.
or 45.degree.. In some exemplary embodiments having a smaller
angle, it can thus be achieved, for example, that a greater
proportion of the weight force of the cage blank can be supported
by the abutment surface.
[0023] In some further exemplary embodiments the tool includes a
frame. For processing the tool blank this frame is closed on four
sides. Thus in some exemplary embodiments a stability of the tool
can be increased. The frame can extend in a plane that is oriented
parallel to a movement or a stroke of the punch. A die can be
attached on one side of the frame; the punch can move into the die.
One side of the frame can be removed or opened. Thus in some
exemplary embodiments a cage blank can be inserted or removed again
therefrom. For example, this side can be an auxiliary yoke. The
auxiliary yoke can be oriented parallel to a stroke or a movement
of the punch.
[0024] In some further exemplary embodiments the clamping element
is adjustable to a plurality of inner diameters of to-be-clamped
cage blanks. Thus in some exemplary embodiments it can be made
possible that a clamping element can be used for a variety of cage
blanks. In certain circumstances the clamping element or at least
one segment of the clamping element can be adjusted for this
purpose in the radial direction. For example, a position of the at
least one slide surface can be changeable in the radial
direction.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] Further advantageous designs are described in more detail
below with reference to exemplary embodiments depicted in the
drawings, but are not limited to said exemplary embodiments.
[0026] FIG. 1 shows a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing cage according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 2 shows a schematic depiction of a perspective view of
a device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 3 shows a schematic depiction of a cut, side view of
the device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage
according to FIG. 2.
[0029] FIG. 4 shows a schematic depiction of a plan view of the
device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage according
to FIG. 2.
[0030] FIG. 5 shows a schematic depiction of a side view of a tool
of the device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage
according to FIG. 2.
[0031] FIG. 6a shows a schematic depiction of a perspective view of
a device for cage-positioning for the tool according to FIG. 5.
[0032] FIG. 6b shows a schematic depiction of a side view of the
device for cage-positioning according to FIG. 6a.
[0033] FIG. 6c shows a schematic plan view of the device for
cage-positioning according to FIGS. 6a and 6b.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] In the following description of the accompanying Figures,
like reference numerals refer to like or comparable components.
Furthermore, summarizing reference numerals are used for components
and objects that appear multiple times in an exemplary embodiment
or in an illustration, but that are described together in terms of
one or more common features. Components or objects that are
described with the same or summarizing reference numbers can be
embodied identically, but also optionally differently, in terms of
individual, multiple, or all features, their dimensions, for
example, as long as the description does not explicitly or
implicitly indicate otherwise.
[0035] FIG. 1 shows a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing cage according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0036] In a method 1 for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing
cage, a cage blank is clamped in the radial direction using a
clamping element in a step 2. Then in a step 3 the cage blank is
processed at a first position. After the processing, the cage blank
is rotated relative to the clamping element in a further step 4.
Subsequently the cage blank is processed at a second position.
[0037] FIG. 2 shows a schematic depiction of a perspective view of
a device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 2, a device 5 for manufacturing a
rolling-element bearing cage comprises a clamping element 6. The
clamping element 6 is configured in order to orient a cage blank 7
in the radial direction and along its circumferential direction of
the cage blank 7 relative to a tool 8. Furthermore the clamping
element 6 is configured to clamp the cage blank 7 such that the
cage blank 7 can be rotated relative to the clamping element 6.
[0039] In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the device 1 also
comprises an abutment surface 9 in addition to the clamping element
6 and the tool 8. The clamping element 6 is attached to the
abutment surface 9. The abutment surface 9 can be moved in a plane
relative to the tool 8. This plane lies parallel to a side ring 10
of the cage blank 7 or to a future cage. The side ring 10 extends
is disposed in a circumferential direction of the cage. For moving
the abutment surface 9, the device 5 has a linear guide 11. A rail
12 of the linear guide 11 is disposed for this purpose on a
substructure 13 of the device 5.
[0040] FIG. 3 shows a schematic depiction of a cut, side view of
the device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage
according to FIG. 2.
[0041] As depicted in FIG. 3, the linear guide 11 comprises a sled
14. This sled 14 is attached to an underside 15 of the abutment
surface 9. Furthermore the sled 14 is also movably disposed on the
rail 12 of the linear guide 11. The abutment surface 9 has a cutout
16. The tool 8 is disposed in the cutout 16 of the abutment surface
9. The cutout 16 thus projects from an edge surface 17 of the
abutment surface 9 into the abutment surface 9. The clamping
element 6 is disposed on the abutment surface 9. The cutout 16
extends up to beyond a center point of the clamping element 6. The
cutout 16 thus projects at least so far into the abutment surface 9
that the tool 8 can be positioned at the position at which the cage
blank 7 is to be processed. Since the tool 8 is disposed in the
cutout 16, in some exemplary embodiments it can be made possible
that the cage blank 7 can be held by the abutment surface 9 using a
large part of its edge surface. The edge surface of the cage blank
7 can be directed in an axial direction M of the cage blank 7. For
example, the cutout 16 has a width for this purpose that
corresponds at most to 1/20, 1/15, 1/10, 1/8, 1/6, 1/5, 1/4 or 1/3
of a length of a circumference of the cage blank 7.
[0042] FIG. 4 shows a schematic depiction of a plan view of the
device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage according
to FIG. 2.
[0043] As depicted in FIG. 4, the clamping element 6 comprises a
plurality of variable cage-clamping segments 18. In the exemplary
embodiment of FIG. 4, the cage-clamping segments 18 are each formed
as a rail. The cage-clamping segments 18 are disposed such that
their length extends in a radial direction of the cage blank 7. In
the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4, the clamping element 6
comprises seven cage-clamping segments 18. The seven cage-clamping
segments 18 and the tool 8 are disposed at a uniform distance to
each other so that they divide a circle into eight parts.
[0044] In further, not-depicted exemplary embodiments, the clamping
element can include any other number of cage-clamping segments.
[0045] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures, all
cage-clamping segments 18 are formed identically. In further,
not-depicted exemplary embodiments, individual cage segments can
differ from one another in their design.
[0046] Only the configuration of the cage-clamping segment 18-a
will be described in a representative manner. The cage-clamping
segment 18-a has a slide surface 19. The slide surface 19 is the
part of the cage-clamping element 18-a that comes in contact with
the cage blank 7. In the present exemplary embodiment the slide
surface 19 has an upper surface that is curved radially outward.
For example, a radius of the curvature can be smaller than an inner
diameter of the cage blank 7. In some exemplary embodiments it can
thus be made possible, for example, that the cage blank 7 and the
slide surface 19 have only a small contact surface with each other.
Only a smallest-possible friction between the cage blank 7 and
clamping element 19 could thereby be generated when the cage blank
7 displaces relative to the clamping element 6 and thus also
relative to the slide surface 19. The slide surface 19 abuts on a
surface 20 of the cage blank 7, which surface 20 faces radially
inward and extends in the circumferential direction. Expressed in
other words, the slide surface 19 abuts on an inner diameter of the
cage blank 7.
[0047] A position of the cage-clamping element 18-a can be changed
in the radial direction R of the cage blank 7 with respect to a
center axis M. In the present exemplary embodiment the
cage-clamping segment 18-a is movably guided for this purpose in a
recess 21. The recess 21 is introduced in a base plate 22 of the
clamping element 6. The base plate 22 can, for example, be fixedly
connected to the abutment surface 9. The recess 21 also extends in
a radial direction of the cage blank 7. The cage-clamping segment
18-a can be fixed at a certain diameter via an attachment means 23.
This can be, for example, the inner diameter of the cage blank 7 to
be processed. The fixing or a fitting can take place, for example,
such that the slide surface 17 is positioned on an inner diameter
of the cage blank 7 to be clamped. For example, the cage-clamping
segment 18-a can be fixed for this purpose in the recess 21. For
this purpose the base plate 22 can include a not-depicted
attachment structure. This can work together with the attachment
means 23. For example, a slot or a plurality of slots can be
introduced into the cage-clamping segment 18-a as the attachment
means 23.
[0048] In some further, not-depicted exemplary embodiments the
cage-clamping segment can have any shape. For example, the
cage-clamping segment can have the shape of a circle segment. In
some further exemplary embodiments any attachment structure and a
corresponding counterstructure on the abutment surface can be
provided as the attachment means. For example, a clamping device, a
latching device, or similar can be provided for this purpose. For
example, in some exemplary embodiments the individual cage-clamping
segments can be connected to one another, so that a conjoint
adjustment of the cage-clamping segments can be possible.
[0049] The abutment surface 9 comprises a plurality of rollers 24.
The rollers 24 are configured in order to support the cage blank 7.
Seventeen rollers are present in the exemplary embodiment of the
Figures. The rollers 24 serve to reduce friction between the cage
blank 7 and the abutment surface 9. This can possibly be important
when the cage blank 7 is rotated with respect to the clamping
element 6. In the exemplary embodiment the rollers 24 or their axes
of rotation are disposed parallel to the radial direction of the
cage blank 7. For example, the upper surface of the rollers 24 can
each lie in the same plane as the upper surface of the abutment
surface 9. Alternatively the rollers 24 can be disposed such that
they protrude from the abutment surface 9. In some exemplary
embodiments this can result in that the cage blank 7 abuts on the
abutment surface 9 only on the rollers 24. The rollers 24 are each
disposed in an upper surface of the abutment surface 9. The rollers
24 have a length L. Here the length L of the rollers 24 is chosen
such that the rollers 24 lie in a range of a smallest possible and
a largest possible diameter of possible cage blanks that are to be
processed on the device 5. The rollers 24 are disposed in different
sections to one another. The three rollers 24-a, 24-b, and 24-c are
disposed adjacent to the tool 8 or the cutout 16. These rollers
have a smaller distance to one another than the rollers 24-d and
24-e which are disposed adjacent to the rollers 24-a, 24-b, and
24-c. In an analogous manner to the three rollers 24-a, 24-b, and
24-c, three rollers 24-f, 24-g, 24-h, which have a smaller distance
to each other than the rollers 24-d and 24-e, are disposed on the
other side of the cutout 16 or of the tool 8.
[0050] To move the cage blank 7 with respect to the clamping
element 6 and thus also with respect to the tool 8, a not-depicted,
integrated positioning device can be provided. Furthermore, for
this purpose the device 5 can also include a not-depicted rotary
drive. For this purpose, for example, an angular interval can be
sensed using a displacement measuring system. In cases wherein
cages are to be manufactured only in small quantities, the cage or
the cage blank 7 can also be moved by hand from the first position
to the second position. An also not-depicted stop can be provided
for this purpose, for example. Expressed in other words, the
forward indexing from pocket to pocket or between processing
positions can take place manually, for example using an adjustable
stop.
[0051] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figures, the tool 8 can
be used for different processing procedures. For one, the tool can
be used for punching the pockets. For this purpose the tool 8 is
equipped with a window punch 25 and a die 26, into which the window
punch moves. As depicted in FIG. 3, the window punch 25 is
connected to a press cylinder 27. The press cylinder 27 is disposed
radially inside the cage blank 7. For the punching, the window
punch 25 is pressed from a radially inwardly oriented
circumferential surface 20 of the cage blank 7 to radially outward
into the die 26. Any cylinder can be used as the press cylinder 27.
For example, a hydraulic cylinder is used as the press cylinder 27.
For example, in some exemplary embodiments a linear actuator (e.g.
an "Ultra Power" cylinder ("HRP")) can be used as the press
cylinder 27. The linear actuator can have a length, for example, of
approximately 400 mm and can be extended to a maximum length, for
example, of 8000 mm. Furthermore, the cylinder or linear actuator
can have a diameter, for example, between 140 mm and 160 mm. For
example, using the cylinder or linear actuator, a static force of
7182 kN and a dynamic force of 1600 kN can be exerted.
[0052] For example, the cage blank 7 can have a diameter of over
250 mm, 500 mm, 1000 mm, 1500 mm, 2000 mm, or 2500 mm. For example,
the cage blank 7 can have a thickness of 10 mm to 12 mm.
[0053] The tool 8 has a scraper 28 to take off the material
punched-out from the pocket. The tool 8 comprises a main yoke 29.
The main yoke 29 serves to hold the press cylinder 27. The die 26
is held in a frame 30. The frame 30 is connected to the main yoke
29 via an auxiliary yoke 31. Furthermore, the main yoke 29 is
connected to the frame 30 via a guide column 32. A further guide
column 33 protrudes from the main yoke 29 into an interior of the
tool 8 towards the frame 30. The window punch 25 is guided along
the guide columns 32 and 33. The frame 30 and the main yoke 29 are
connected to a top side of the tool 8 via the auxiliary yoke 31.
The auxiliary yoke 31 is configured to be removable. Thus the cage
blank 7 can be inserted into the tool 8 or removed again therefrom.
Expressed in other words, the cage blank 7 to be processed or the
finished cage can be exchanged due to the removable auxiliary yoke
31.
[0054] The auxiliary yoke 31 and also the guide column 33 and
optionally the guide column 32 are removable. Then the main yoke 29
can be pivoted away. Thus in some exemplary embodiments, the tool 8
or the window punch 25 and/or the die 26 can be more simply
exchanged or replaced. For example, the window punch 25 can be
replaced by another window punch in another size or shape. For
example, the window punch 25 can be replaced when worn.
Furthermore, the die 26 can be selected or exchanged to match the
window punch 26. Furthermore, the tool 8 can also be retrofitted
for another processing operation, namely an embossing.
[0055] FIG. 5 shows a schematic depiction of a side view of a tool
of the device for manufacturing a rolling-element bearing cage
according to FIG. 1.
[0056] As depicted in FIG. 5, an embossing stamp 34 can also be
attached to the press cylinder 27. The embossing stamp 34 can serve
to correspondingly process the cage bridges in a cage blank 7 from
which the pockets have already been punched-out. When the tool 8
includes the embossing stamp 34 or this is mounted in the tool, the
tool 8 also includes a cage positioner 35. Using the cage
positioner 35, the cage blank 7 from which pockets have already
been punched can be positioned with respect to the tool for the
embossing of the bridges. The cage positioner 35 is disposed on the
frame 30 of the tool 8. The cage positioner 35 is disposed radially
outside the cage blank 7.
[0057] FIGS. 6a to 6c show enlarged detail views of the cage
positioner 35.
[0058] As depicted in FIG. 6a, the cage positioner 35 includes four
rollers 36. The rollers 36 are disposed such that a cage bridge can
respectively be held between two opposing rollers 36. Here the
rollers 36 are disposed such that two rollers 36 lie on one side of
the cage bridge. The rollers 36 are each disposed such that their
axes of rotation extend substantially parallel to a cage bridge or
its extension between the side rings of the cage, which side rings
are disposed in the circumferential direction. Each of the rollers
36 is held in an attachment element 37. Here each of the attachment
elements 37 has a C-shaped profile. The roller 36 is disposed in
the C-shaped cutout. The attachment elements 37 are attached to
not-depicted rails on a base plate 38.
[0059] As is recognizable in FIG. 6b, each of the attachment
elements 37 is movably connected to the base plate 38 via a spring
40. In order to limit a movement of the attachment elements 37
towards a region 43 wherein the cage bridge is to be positioned and
held, a stop 41 is disposed between the attachment elements 37. The
stop 41 is fixedly connected to the base plate 38. Using the base
plate 38, the cage positioner 35 can be adapted to different angles
of the cage blank 7 and possibly also to different pocket sizes.
For example, the cage positioner 35 can thus be adapted to a
cylindrical or truncated-cone-shaped cage blank 7. For this purpose
the base plate 38 has a surface 42. The surface 42 is formed on a
side of the base plate 38 which is facing away from the region 43,
in which the cage bridge can be held. The surface 42 that is
disposed at an angle to the region 43 for the cage bridge.
[0060] When a cage blank 7 having punched-out pockets is positioned
on the tool 8, one of the cage bridges is centered between the
opposing rollers 37, parallel to the axes of rotation of the
rollers. The stop 40 guides the roller attachment elements 37. The
stop 40 prevents the attachment elements 37 from being able to move
too far towards the cage bridge held between them. The springs 40
press the attachment elements 37 and the rollers 36 against the
cage blank 7 until they snap-onto the bridge.
[0061] For the assembly, in some exemplary embodiments the movable
components and the springs can be used and the cage positioner 35
can be screw fastened to the holder, i.e. to the frame 30 of the
tool 8.
[0062] As depicted in FIG. 5, the tool 8 can be adjusted to
different shapes of different cage blanks 7. This can occur
independently of the equipping of the tool 8, i.e. with a stamping
punch or window punch or an embossing stamp. For this purpose the
tool 8 has a height adjuster 44. Using the height adjuster 44 the
tool 8 can be positioned at different heights parallel to an axial
direction M of the cage. Using the height adjuster 44, a tool base
plate 45, on which the frame 30 is rotatably attached, can be moved
in the axial direction M.
[0063] For example, the frame 30 can be pivotably connected to the
base plate 45 at a corner via a hinge 46. In the exemplary
embodiment of FIG. 5 the frame 30 of the tool 8 is rotatably
connected to the base plate 45 at the corner, which connects a side
of the frame 30, at which the die 26 or the cage positioner 35, and
at a side which opposes the auxiliary yoke. The tool 8 or a frame
of the tool 8 having the punch can thus be pivoted with respect to
the center axis M of the cage blank 7 in a plane that is oriented
perpendicular to the abutment surface 9. Thus the punch or the tool
can be adapted to a shape of the cage blank 7, cylindrical or
truncated-cone-shaped. In order to lock a position of the punch and
of the frame 30, the tool 8 comprises an adjustment element 49. The
adjustment element 49 produces an operative connection between the
frame 30 of the tool 8 and the base plate 45. Using the adjustment
element 49 the frame 30 can be pivoted about the hinge 46 and then
locked. For this purpose the adjustment element 49 is attached to a
frame part 48 which is disposed opposite the auxiliary yoke 31. The
adjustment element 49 is attached via a hinge 47 that includes the
frame part 47.
[0064] Expressed in other words, an advantageous method for
cage-punching and/or embossing can be performed with a device in
some exemplary embodiments. This can optionally be possible without
acquisition of an expensive custom apparatus. With some exemplary
embodiments, an expensive custom press having an indexing or
clocking device can be omitted. Instead, using the device 5
according to some exemplary embodiments, an adjustable, variable
holder for the cage or cage blank 7 can be provided without
expensive clamping tools. With some exemplary embodiments, existing
tools can be readily adapted and held, for example, in the frame
30.
[0065] The device of the exemplary embodiment is a hydraulic
punching- and embossing-device for steel-plate cages. For example,
the force can be applied onto the punch by any other cylinder.
[0066] The exemplary embodiments and their individual features
disclosed in the above description, the following claims, and the
accompanying Figures can be meaningful and implemented both
individually and in any combination for the realization of an
exemplary embodiment in its various designs.
[0067] Representative, non-limiting examples of the present
invention were described above in detail with reference to the
attached drawings. This detailed description is merely intended to
teach a person of skill in the art further details for practicing
preferred aspects of the present teachings and is not intended to
limit the scope of the invention.
[0068] Moreover, combinations of features and steps disclosed in
the above detailed description may not be necessary to practice the
invention in the broadest sense, and are instead taught merely to
particularly describe representative examples of the invention.
Furthermore, various features of the above-described representative
examples, as well as the various independent and dependent claims
below, may be combined in ways that are not specifically and
explicitly enumerated in order to provide additional useful
embodiments of the present teachings.
[0069] All features disclosed in the description and/or the claims
are intended to be disclosed separately and independently from each
other for the purpose of original written disclosure, as well as
for the purpose of restricting the claimed subject matter,
independent of the compositions of the features in the embodiments
and/or the claims. In addition, all value ranges or indications of
groups of entities are intended to disclose every possible
intermediate value or intermediate entity for the purpose of
original written disclosure, as well as for the purpose of
restricting the claimed subject matter.
REFERENCE NUMBER LIST
[0070] 1 Method [0071] 2 Clamping [0072] 3 Processing [0073] 4
Rotating [0074] 5 Device [0075] 6 Clamping element [0076] 7 Cage
blank [0077] 8 Tool [0078] 9 Abutment surface [0079] 11 Side ring
[0080] 12 Rail [0081] 13 Substructure [0082] 14 Sled [0083] 15
Underside [0084] 16 Cutout [0085] 17 Edge surface [0086] 18
Cage-clamping segment [0087] 19 Slide surface [0088] 20 Inner
surface [0089] 21 Recess [0090] 22 Base plate [0091] 23 Attachment
means [0092] 24 Roller [0093] 25 Window punch [0094] 26 Die [0095]
27 Press cylinder [0096] 28 Scraper [0097] 29 Main yoke [0098] 30
Frame [0099] 31 Auxiliary yoke [0100] 32 Guide rail [0101] 33 Guide
rail [0102] 34 Embossing stamp [0103] 35 Cage positioner [0104] 36
Roller [0105] 37 Attachment element [0106] 38 Base plate [0107] 40
Spring [0108] 41 Stop [0109] 42 Surface [0110] 43 Region [0111] 44
Height adjuster [0112] 45 Tool base plate [0113] 46 Hinge [0114] 47
Hinge [0115] 48 Frame component [0116] 49 Adjustment element [0117]
R Cage radial direction [0118] M Cage axial direction [0119] L
Roller length
* * * * *