gravitationslager

Gravitationslager, also known as gravity bearings or gravity-loaded bearings, refers to a type of bearing where the load is primarily supported by the force of gravity acting on the moving or stationary components. This is in contrast to bearings that rely on external forces, lubrication, or magnetic fields for support. In a gravitationslager, the weight of the object being supported is directly transferred through the bearing surfaces.

These bearings are often characterized by their simplicity and lack of complex mechanical or electrical components. They are typically found in applications where the load is relatively constant and predictable, and where high speeds or extreme precision are not primary requirements. Examples can range from simple pivots in historical machinery to certain types of support structures in large-scale architectural designs where the sheer weight of materials is managed through gravity.

The design of a gravitationslager focuses on minimizing friction between the surfaces under load. This can involve selecting materials with low coefficients of friction, ensuring smooth surface finishes, and potentially incorporating mechanisms to allow for slight movement or rolling to reduce sliding friction. Lubrication may still be used to further reduce wear and friction, but the fundamental support mechanism is gravity. The efficiency and lifespan of a gravitationslager are heavily dependent on the materials used, the accuracy of their construction, and the consistency of the applied gravitational load.