Study on the Speed Distribution Mechanism of a Bionic Multi-Decker Rolling Bearing Based on Lightweight Design

To address the issues of excessive mass and low speed transmission ratio in double-decker rolling bearings compared with conventional single-decker bearings, this paper integrates bionics with structural design principles. Inspired by the microscopic structure of skeletal muscle, a bionic optimisation method for the transition ring structure of double-decker rolling bearings is proposed. The novel multi-decker rolling bearing constructed using this method achieves approximately an 11% reduction in mass relative to its predecessor. Based on pure rolling theory, a kinematic model for the bionic multi-decker rolling bearing is established for the first time, revealing its speed transmission mechanism. Mathematical calculation methods for the speed transmission ratio and sliding velocity of the bionic multi-decker rolling bearing are proposed. Research indicates that the speed transmission performance of the bionic multi-decker rolling bearing improves by 43% compared with traditional double-decker rolling bearings. Furthermore, a static finite element analysis model for the bionic multi-decker rolling bearing was developed based on static analysis. Finite element analysis of load-bearing capacity was conducted for both the bionic multi-decker rolling bearing and the conventional double-decker rolling bearing from three perspectives: stress, strain, and strain energy. A comprehensive evaluation of their performance in this regard was undertaken. This research provides insights for lightweight and high-speed design of double-decker rolling bearings, while offering theoretical support for studies on speed transmission in multi-decker rolling bearings.