Major technological advancements across growing industries such as manufacturing, logistics and healthcare have resulted in greater demand for precision and sophistication in product design.
An example of this is the humanoid robot, a lifelike machine that is designed to replicate human movement with extreme precision and fluidity. Central to achieving this high level of performance is the implementation of advanced mechanical components—such as the crossed roller bearing.
What is a Crossed Roller Bearing?
Crossed roller bearings are a specific type of rolling-element bearing that is characterized by cylindrical rollers arranged in an orthogonal pattern, with each roller positioned at a right angle to its adjacent counterpart. The roller guide method can be arranged as a cage, separators or a full complement. This unique configuration allows the bearing to support a variety of radial, axial and tilting moment loads simultaneously—providing exceptional performance and versatility.
Because of their unique advantages and versatility, crossed roller bearings are widely employed across more complex applications to ensure smooth, precise and reliable movement. Typically, they are used in rotary actuators to facilitate the movement of joints such as shoulders, elbows and wrists.
Distinct Advantages Offered by Crossed Roller Bearings
Whether employed in humanoid robots, industrial arms or machine tools, crossed roller bearings share a common thread of unique advantages that make them crucial for optimal product design. Here are several key benefits offered by crossed roller bearings:
- Precision Movement: Crossed roller bearings offer exceptional rotational accuracy with minimal friction torque. This ensures smooth and precise movement that is essential for tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as manipulating fragile objects or performing intricate maneuvers.
- High Load Capacity & Rigidity: The unique design of crossed roller bearings enables them to support loads in multiple directions. This versatile load capacity contributes to the rigidity and stability of the system. Rigidity is particularly crucial in applications where positional accuracy is required, such as precision assembly tasks or robotic surgery. The high rigidity of crossed roller bearings reduces deflection under load, ensuring precise and consistent movement.
- Compact Design: Crossed roller bearings feature a compact design, making them ideal for use in applications where space is limited. This small footprint—combined with a high load-carrying capacity and rigidity—yields agile, space-efficient designs without sacrificing performance.
- Enhanced Durability: Premature wear and failure of components can be an issue for certain applications that involve repetitive movements and high stress levels. Specifically designed for durability, crossed roller bearings are typically constructed from materials like high-grade steel and stainless steel, which offer excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. They facilitate a longer lifespan and reliable performance, ultimately reducing maintenance and downtime.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: By providing smooth and precise motion control, crossed roller bearings contribute to greater energy efficiency. Their ability to minimize friction torque ensures that humanoid robots, for example, can operate with optimal energy consumption—thereby enhancing robotic performance and extending their battery life.
Our crossed roller bearings are available with or without seals, which are crucial to ensure a long lifespan for articulating joints as they prevent the ingress of contaminants such as dirt, dust and water.
CCTY understands that robotic engineers, in particular, are working under tight timeframes. Our team can turn around samples within just 30 days when provided prints and access to design needs.
Learn about CCTY’s crossed roller bearings: www.cctygroup.com/crossed-roller-bearings.
Stay Up-to-Date on Motion Control
CCTY’s monthly newsletter covers advancement in motion control along with tips for finding the optimal solution for your application. Join the mailing list today to stay up-to-date on advancements in motion control, product information and CCTY happenings.
