Discrete Circumferential Or Axial Spacer Patents (Class 384/551)
  • Patent number: 7073948
    Abstract: A roller bearing (e.g., a cross taper roller bearing) includes an outer ring, an inner ring and rolling elements (e.g., taper rollers) located between the inner and outer rings. The rolling elements are kept at a distance by a cage formed from a number of individual cage segments. Each cage segment has two opposing guide sections for one of the rolling elements to at least partially encompass the rolling element on both sides. In addition, for the rolling elements bordering the one rolling element, the cage segment has guide sections which, in interaction with a corresponding guide section of an adjacent cage segment, at least partially encompass the bordering rolling elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: AB SKF
    Inventors: Gunter Neder, Rut Heemskerk, Bruno Schemmel, Jurgen Reichert, Robert Grull, Burkard Beck, Alfred Schwappach, Stefan Wagner
  • Patent number: 7036391
    Abstract: A protruding section facing a drive pinion shaft is integrally provided on (or provided as a separate component) a tubular spacer interposed between an inner race of a pilot bearing and an inner race of a tapered roller bearing at an inner section opposite to the drive pinion shaft. In one embodiment, a monolithic protruding section is curved so as to be convex along the overall central axial direction of the spacer, and is arch shaped in cross section. The protruding section protrudes towards the drive pinion shaft along the overall inner peripheral direction of the spacer, and the inner surface of the protruding section comes into contact with or close to the outer surface of the drive pinion shaft. Additional positions include one or a plurality of O-rings interposed between the drive pinion shaft and the inner surface of the tubular spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenichi Tsuchiya, Seiji Habara
  • Patent number: 7036989
    Abstract: A roller bearing oil feed device includes a plurality of rolling elements arranged in a plurality of rows in the axial direction between an outer ring and an inner ring, the inner ring being divided for each row of the rolling elements and a ring-shaped spacer being interposed at the position of this division, the inner rings and spacer being fitted onto a rotary shaft. A circumferential groove is provided in the inner peripheral section of the spacer and oil feed holes communicating with the circumferential groove are provided in the rotary shaft. An oil feed passage having an inlet opening into the circumferential groove and an outlet opening to a corner on at least one side in the axial direction of the spacer is provided in the spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignees: Isuzu Motors Limited, NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Masafumi Taki, Takashi Ito, Takashi Tsujimoto
  • Patent number: 6988832
    Abstract: A system and method is provided to accommodate positional variations in a bearing assembly, which has a clearance adjustment assembly for setting the roller clearance therein. The bearing assembly has multiple rows of tapered rollers disposed circumferentially between an inner sleeve and the clearance adjustment assembly, which is secured by an outer retaining sleeve. The clearance adjustment assembly has at least one clearance adjustment ring disposed adjacent multiple tapered support rings, which extend circumferentially about the multiple rows of tapered rollers. In the bearing assembly, the at least one clearance adjustment ring forces the multiple tapered support rings against the multiple rows of tapered rollers to set the desired roller clearance. Accordingly, the bearing assembly can accommodate expansion, contraction, and angular variations in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Reliance Electric Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan N. DeWachter, Donald L. Nisley
  • Patent number: 6979131
    Abstract: A multiple-row radial bearing with at least one bearing race and pertaining rolling bodies, with the bearing race having at least one central collar, is characterized in that the central collar of the bearing race is formed by a single-piece ring (11), which is provided with a slot (12) and has variable diameter, for insertion in a circumferential groove (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Ina Wälzlager Schaeffler OHG
    Inventors: Roland Lippert, Christoph Becker
  • Patent number: 6935788
    Abstract: A wheel hub assembly including first and second bearing assemblies positioned on opposite sides of a spacer. The spacer includes at least one opening to allow lubricant to flow through the spacer. The spacer includes a first section deformable such that an overall length of the spacer is reduced a predetermined amount in response to the application of a predetermined load to set a distance between the first and second bearing assemblies. The assembly further includes a spindle having external threads and a nut having internal threads engaged with the spindle to secure the bearing assemblies and spacer within the wheel hub assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Edmund A. Stanczak
  • Patent number: 6857784
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for setting the roller clearance of a multi-row tapered roller bearing assembly via a clearance adjustment assembly and an outer retaining sleeve. The bearing assembly has multiple rows of tapered rollers disposed circumferentially between an inner sleeve and the clearance adjustment assembly, which is secured by the outer retaining sleeve. The clearance adjustment assembly has at least one clearance adjustment ring disposed adjacent multiple tapered support rings, which extend circumferentially about the multiple rows of tapered rollers. In the bearing assembly, the at least one clearance adjustment ring forces the multiple tapered support rings against the multiple rows of tapered rollers to set the desired roller clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Reliance Electric Technologies, LLC.
    Inventors: Ryan N. DeWachter, Donald L. Nisley
  • Patent number: 6821604
    Abstract: In a retaining piece interposed between the adjacent rolling balls, a concave surface of each of both side surfaces of the retaining piece where it contacts with the spherical surfaces of the balls is configured to partly contact with the spherical surface of the ball. The concave surface includes a linear contact portion to be in contact with the ball and an approximate curved surface having the radius of curvature approximate to that of the ball, which is located on the inner side of the linear contact portion. In addition, recesses which are joined to the gate portion and the ejector pin in a molding process are formed in the concave surfaces. A recess is formed at the joining portion or near a parting line. Fins formed in the molding process are capable to be put into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kasuga, Ryoichi Sato, Hiroki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 6794015
    Abstract: In a retaining piece interposed between the adjacent rolling balls, a concave surface of each of both side surfaces of the retaining piece where it contacts with the spherical surfaces of the balls is configured to partly contact with the spherical surface of the ball. The concave surface includes a linear contact portion to be in contact with the ball and an approximate curved surface having the radius of curvature approximate to that of the ball, which is located on the inner side of the linear contact portion. In addition, recesses which are joined to the gate portion and the ejector pin in a molding process are formed in the concave surfaces. A recess is formed at the joining portion or near a parting line. Fins formed in the molding process are capable to be put into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kasuga, Ryoichi Sato, Hiroki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 6786645
    Abstract: A mounting for the road wheel of an automotive vehicle includes a spindle, a hub located around the spindle and inboard and outboard tapered roller bearings located between the hub and spindle where they are mounted in opposition. The cones (inner races) of the two bearings are separated by a spacer which at its ends is attached to the cones. The spacer holds the cones together within the hub so that the bearings and hub can be installed on and removed from the spindle as a unit. The spacer also establishes the setting for the bearings. In addition, the mounting has a seal located in the inboard end of the hub. The seal has lips which establish dynamic fluid barriers along the cone of the inboard bearing and along an adjacent sealing surface on the spindle without contacting the cone or spindle. The raceways and rollers for the two bearings have highly crowned profiles and the hub and the seal within contain an optimum amount of grease for lubricating the bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: The Timken Company
    Inventors: Mark A. Joki, James W. Skelly, Richard Borowski, Steven B. Boyd, Thomas J. Rybkoski
  • Patent number: 6699568
    Abstract: In a retaining piece interposed between the adjacent rolling balls, a concave surface of each of both side surfaces of the retaining piece where it contacts with the spherical surfaces of the balls is configured to partly contact with the spherical surface of the ball. The concave surface includes a linear contact portion to be in contact with the ball and an approximate curved surface having the radius of curvature approximate to that of the ball, which is located on the inner side of the linear contact portion. In addition, recesses which are joined to the gate portion and the ejector pin in a molding process are formed in the concave surfaces. A recess is formed at the joining portion or near a parting line. Fins formed in the molding process are capable to be put into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kasuga, Ryoichi Sato, Hiroki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 6692814
    Abstract: In a retaining piece interposed between the adjacent rolling balls, a concave surface of each of both side surfaces of the retaining piece where it contacts with the spherical surfaces of the balls is configured to partly contact with the spherical surface of the ball. The concave surface includes a linear contact portion to be in contact with the ball and an approximate curved surface having the radius of curvature approximate to that of the ball, which is located on the inner side of the linear contact portion. In addition, recesses which are joined to the gate portion and the ejector pin in a molding process are formed in the concave surfaces. A recess is formed at the joining portion or near a parting line. Fins formed in the molding process are capable to be put into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kasuga, Ryoichi Sato, Hiroki Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20030223666
    Abstract: A low spring rate multi-convoluted collapsible spacer adapted for use as a bearing preloading element. The collapsible spacer comprises a substantially tubular body compressible in an axial direction thereof from a predetermined free length to a substantially shorter length. The tubular body includes a yielding zone and an elastic zone adjacent to said yielding zone. Each of the yielding and elastic zones has at least one convolution curved in the same radial direction. An average thickness of the body of the spacer in the elastic zone is substantially greater than an average thickness of the body in the yielding zone that provides the collapsible spacer a substantially higher resiliency in the axial direction in the elastic zone than in the yielding zone. As a whole, the collapsible spacer has a relatively low spring rate, thus larger amount of “spring back”, hence less sensitivity to wear and maladjustment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: SPICER TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Nahrwold, Patrick J. Ballinger, Robert William Sullivan, Nolan James Knight
  • Patent number: 6565947
    Abstract: In a retaining piece interposed between the adjacent rolling balls, a concave surface of each of both side surfaces of the retaining piece where it contacts with the spherical surfaces of the balls is configured to partly contact with the spherical surface of the ball. The concave surface includes a linear contact portion to be in contact with the ball and an approximate curved surface having the radius of curvature approximate to that of the ball, which is located on the inner side of the linear contact portion. In addition, recesses which are joined to the gate portion and the ejector pin in a molding process are formed in the concave surfaces. A recess is formed at the joining portion or near a parting line. Fins formed in the molding process are capable to be put into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kasuga, Ryoichi Sato, Hiroki Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20030012476
    Abstract: A spacer (113) for use in motorcycle wheels and a method of using the spacer (113) is disclosed. The spacer (113) has two members (120, 121) which are joined together by a threaded connection (124) and which may rotate relative to each other on the threaded connection (124) thereby allowing the distance between the ends (133, 134) of the two members (120, 121) to increase or decrease. The spacer (113) allows adjustment of the distance between bearings (111, 112) in the hub (100) of the motorcycle wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Douglas Allister Biette
  • Publication number: 20020196990
    Abstract: A wheel hub assembly including first and second bearing assemblies positioned on opposite sides of a spacer. The spacer includes at least one opening to allow lubricant to flow through the spacer. The spacer includes a first section deformable such that an overall length of the spacer is reduced a predetermined amount in response to the application of a predetermined load to set a distance between the first and second bearing assemblies. The assembly further includes a spindle having external threads and a nut having internal threads engaged with the spindle to secure the bearing assemblies and spacer within the wheel hub assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Edmund A. Stanczak
  • Patent number: 6487775
    Abstract: A system for adjusting an adjustable spacer is provided. A high-compression section is adapted to receive the spacer for a bearing assembly. A low-compression section is adapted to receive the bearing assembly. In one aspect, a transfer frame can serve as a mechanical interface between the high-compression section and the low-compression section. Also, the transfer frame can be adapted to transfer to the low-compression section a first travel indicative of a first compression of the spacer with the high-compression section. A sensor can be coupled with the high-compression section and the low-compression section. Further, the sensor can serve to limit the first compression according to a second travel indicative of a second compression of the bearing assembly with the low-compression section. Additionally, the first travel and the second travel are preferably related to provide a desired adjustment (e.g., preloading) to the spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6461051
    Abstract: The present invention provides spacer adjustment system for adjusting at least one spacer of a device. The system includes a ram assembly, a contact detector for operatively detecting a contact between the ram assembly and the device, a motor operatively connected to the ram assembly for operatively applying a force to the device, and a controller, operatively connected to the contact detector, for controlling the motor to adjust the at least one spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6406190
    Abstract: A joint type disc cage of a roller bearing in which a joint is provided at a sheared part of the disc cage so as to fit it into a single-pieced outer or inner race of the roller bearing. Owing to the joint structure of the sheared part of the disc cage, the installation of the disc cage can be easily carried out, and the installed disc cage is maintained in a circular form, so that the function of the disc cage becomes superior, and deformations, abrasions and degradations of the disc cage can be prevented, as well as ensuring the durability and safety of the roller bearing. The disc cage 1 is sheared at one place to form a sheared part 2 which forms two joint end portions 2a and 2b, so as to install the disc cage 1 into an annular installing groove 5 of the outer or inner race 4 and 4a of the roller bearing. The joint end portions 2a and 2b of the sheared part 2 are firmly engagedly coupled together, and therefore, actually the disc cage 1 performs like a non-sheared disc cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Suk Tae Yoon
  • Patent number: 6352367
    Abstract: A spacer for a linear motion apparatus is to be interposed alternately between balls arranged in an endless circulation passage of the linear motion apparatus. The spacer has a body portion comprising spherical retaining surface portions formed for supporting the balls on both end portions thereof in an advancing direction of the spacer when moving in the endless circulation passage and a circumferential surface portion constituting an outer peripheral portion of the spherical retaining surface portions. The spherical retaining surface portion has a radius of curvature smaller than a diameter of the ball and the circumferential surface portion is provided with a groove extending in the circumferential direction thereof so that one of the spherical retaining surface portions is elastically deformable towards another one thereof. The spacer is preferably applicable to various kinds of linear motion apparatus. Further, rollers as rolling members may be utilized in place of the balls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: THK Co., LTD
    Inventors: Masashi Konomoto, Hidekazu Michioka
  • Publication number: 20020015544
    Abstract: One or more force application members (e.g., a force transmission member and/or a hydraulic force application member) may be employed to provide a desired adjustment (e.g., a preload and/or a compression) to an adjustable spacer of a bearing assembly. The hydraulic force application member may provide a first stage of the adjustment to the spacer, and the force transmission member may be threadingly rotated to apply a second stage of the adjustment to the spacer. An additional force application member may (e.g., contemporaneously) oppose at least one of the force application members in the providing of the adjustment to the spacer. This opposing force may cause a gap between certain surfaces (e.g., in a press) until the adjustment to the spacer is completed. The closure of the gap may serve to indicate the completion of the desired adjustment to the spacer. A housing rotatable on a portion of the bearing assembly may be prevented from rotating at the closure of the gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Publication number: 20020006241
    Abstract: A system for adjusting an adjustable spacer is provided. A high-compression section is adapted to receive the spacer for a bearing assembly. A low-compression section is adapted to receive the bearing assembly. In one aspect, a transfer frame can serve as a mechanical interface between the high-compression section and the low-compression section. Also, the transfer frame can be adapted to transfer to the low-compression section a first travel indicative of a first compression of the spacer with the high-compression section. A sensor can be coupled with the high-compression section and the low-compression section. Further, the sensor can serve to limit the first compression according to a second travel indicative of a second compression of the bearing assembly with the low-compression section. Additionally, the first travel and the second travel are preferably related to provide a desired adjustment (e.g., preloading) to the spacer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6327773
    Abstract: One or more force application members (e.g., a force transmission member and/or a hydraulic force application member) may be employed to provide a desired adjustment (e.g., a preload and/or a compression) to an adjustable spacer of a bearing assembly. The hydraulic force application member may provide a first stage of the adjustment to the spacer, and the force transmission member may be threadingly rotated to apply a second stage of the adjustment to the spacer. An additional force application member may (e.g., contemporaneously) oppose at least one of the force application members in the providing of the adjustment to the spacer. This opposing force may cause a gap between certain surfaces (e.g., in a press) until the adjustment to the spacer is completed. The closure of the gap may serve to indicate the completion of the desired adjustment to the spacer. A housing rotatable on a portion of the bearing assembly may be prevented from rotating at the closure of the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6312162
    Abstract: An adjustable bearing spacer (12) includes a cylindrical outer body (42) having a first end (44) for abutment with a bearing cone (28) disposed within one end of a hub (10) and an adjustable ring (46) for abutment with an opposite bearing cone (30). The ring (46) is threadingly engaged with the outer body (42) so as to be extendable from an end (48) of the body (42) allowing adjustment of the length of the spacer (12). End (48) is provided with a plurality of evenly-spaced markings. Two of these markings are in the form of small holes into which the prongs of a tool can be inserted. End (58) of ring (46) is also provided with markings in the form of holes into which the prongs of a tool can be inserted. The markings form an indexing scale for providing an indication of the extension in the length of the spacer (12) when the ring (46) is screwed in or out. The degree of extension is calculated as follows E11=1/x.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Noel Castle
  • Patent number: 6283639
    Abstract: A system for adjusting an adjustable spacer is provided. A high-compression section is adapted to receive the spacer for a bearing assembly. A low-compression section is adapted to receive the bearing assembly. In one aspect, a transfer frame can serve as a mechanical interface between the high-compression section and the low-compression section. Also, the transfer frame can be adapted to transfer to the low-compression section a first travel indicative of a first compression of the spacer with the high-compression section. A sensor can be coupled with the high-compression section and the low-compression section. Further, the sensor can serve to limit the first compression according to a second travel indicative of a second compression of the bearing assembly with the low-compression section. Additionally, the first travel and the second travel are preferably related to provide a desired adjustment (e.g., preloading) to the spacer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6244751
    Abstract: A bearing assembly adjustable spacer may include an end portion, a deformable portion, a transversely inward face portion, and a transversely outward face portion. The end portion may be configured for generally axial abutment (e.g., with a shoulder portion) at a location about a spindle portion. The deformable portion may allow the spacer to be provided with a desired adjustment (e.g., a preload, an adjustment to an axial dimension of the spacer, and/or a compression of the deformable portion of the spacer). The inward face portion may be generally directed radially relative to an axis of the spacer. Further, the inward face portion may be configured for generally radial abutment (e.g., with a surface portion) at a location about a spindle portion. The outward face portion may have a generally axially curved portion. The curved portion may be largely directed obliquely away from the end portion of the spacer. Also, the curved portion may be configured to interface with a generally axially curved part (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Temper Corporation
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6238095
    Abstract: A tapered roller bearing has inner and outer races and tapered rollers organized in at least two rows, with the rollers of the one row being generally aligned with the rollers in the other row. The large ends of the rollers are presented toward each other so that the forces which urge the rollers of either row up their tapered raceways are resisted by the rollers of the other row. The end faces of the aligned rollers in the two rows contact each other or else contact rollers of an intervening row. The geometry of the rollers and the raceways along which they roll are such that, when one race rotates relative to the other race, pure rolling contact exists between the side faces of the rollers and the raceways and pure rolling contact also exists at the end faces of the rollers. Moreover, the lines of contact for the aligned rollers of any set are synchronized and the rollers are stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: The Timken Company
    Inventor: Xiaolan Ai
  • Patent number: 6203206
    Abstract: Apparatus for sealing bearing assemblies includes a first bearing with a first inner race, a second bearing with a second inner race, a shaft, the first and second inner races being juxtaposed on the shaft with their inner surfaces facing the shaft, thus forming a gap between opposing edges of the races, the opposing edges of the first and second inner races are beveled to form a deformation. The apparatus has an annular ring including a positioning member having an inwardly projecting edge for axially positioning the annular ring on the first and second inner races, and a seal for sealing the annular ring against the first and second inner races. The inwardly projecting edge of the positioning member engages the beveled opposing edges of the first and second inner races so that oil supplied between the shaft and the inner surfaces of the races is prevented from flowing through the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Ingemar Dagh
  • Patent number: 6004040
    Abstract: In one aspect, an adjustment system includes a first gage part adjustably engaged (e.g., mated and/or threaded) with a second gage part. The gage parts may be employed in a (e.g., pressing) process of direct installation of bearings (e.g., tapered roller bearings) on a final assembly spindle (e.g., a motor, pump and/or speed reducer shaft). Also, the gage part(s) may be employed in providing adjustment(s) (e.g., a preload and/or an endplay setting) for an adjustable spacer during the same process of direct installation of the bearings. The gage parts may have various interface(s) with the bearing(s), retainer(s), and/or housing portion(s), rotationally supported with respect to the spindle with the bearings. Further, the gage part(s) may serve to protect the bearing(s) from path(s) of compression employed in the adjustment(s). In another aspect, the gage part(s) may be employed in providing a desired adjustment for a gear mounted on the spindle. For the desired gear adjustment (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Temper Corporation
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 6000855
    Abstract: An outer ring spacer for use in a double row rolling bearing unit fitted onto a shaft and comprising inner rings externally secured to the shaft having a pair of spaced apart inner ring raceways, a pair of outer rings having an inner peripheral face formed with outer ring raceways facing respective inner ring raceways, and a plurality of rolling elements provided between the inner ring raceways and outer ring raceways, the outer ring spacer fitted between the outer rings, and comprising a cylindrical spacer body formed with axially opposite parallel end faces abutted against the mutually facing end faces of the outer rings, and a displacement prevention ring internally secured to one axial end of the spacer body, and having a portion protruding from one of the parallel end faces of the spacer body so as to be engaged with the inner peripheral surface of one end portion of the outer rings to prevent the spacer body from being displaced radially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventor: Seizo Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 5975762
    Abstract: A tapered roller bearing has inner and outer races and tapered rollers organized in at least two rows, with the rollers of the one row being generally aligned with the rollers in the other row. The large ends of the rollers are presented toward each other so that the forces which urge the rollers of either row up their tapered raceways are resisted by the rollers of the other row. The end faces of the aligned rollers in the two rows contact each other or else contact intervening elements such as cylindrical rollers or a separating disks. The geometry of the rollers and the raceways along which they roll are such that, when one race rotates relative to the other race, pure rolling contact exists between the side faces of the rollers and the raceways and pure rolling contact also exists at the end faces of the rollers. Moreover, the lines of contact for the aligned rollers of any set are synchronized and the rollers are stable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: The Timken Company
    Inventor: Xiaolan Ai
  • Patent number: 5961221
    Abstract: A cross roller that may rotate at a high speed with high precision is provided. A first conical roller 7 for receiving loads in a first axial direction B and a radial direction and a second conical roller 8 for receiving loads in a second axial direction A and the radial direction are alternatively held by an inner race 3 and an outer race 4. Also, a predetermined space 9 is provided between large end faces 7b and 8b of the first and second conical rollers 7 and 8 and orbital surfaces 4a and 4b of the outer race 4. Then, a seat ring 10 that is elastically deformable is provided in the space 9. By using the conical rollers 7 and 8, a slippage between the orbital surfaces 3a, 3b, 4a and 4b and the rollers 7 and 8 is prevented. Also, the seat ring 10 is elastically deformed so that a suitable pre-pressure is applied to the first and second conical rollers 7 and 8 by its restoring force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Namu Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ichirou Kamimura
  • Patent number: 5833374
    Abstract: A rotatable assembly for supporting the rotor of a vacuum pump with a plurality of gas pumping stages formed by cooperating rotor discs secured to the rotor and stator rings integral with a body, comprising rotatable means for supporting the shaft of the rotor that are housed within this shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Assignee: Varian Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Fausto Casaro
  • Patent number: 5785432
    Abstract: An outer ring spacer for use in a double row rolling bearing unit fitted onto a shaft and comprising inner rings externally secured to the shaft having a pair of spaced apart inner ring raceways, a pair of outer rings having an inner peripheral face formed with outer ring raceways facing respective inner ring raceways, and a plurality of rolling elements provided between the inner ring raceways and outer ring raceways, the outer ring spacer fitted between the outer rings, and comprising a cylindrical spacer body formed with axially opposite parallel end faces abutted against the mutually facing end faces of the outer rings, and a displacement prevention ring internally secured to one axial end of the spacer body, and having a portion protruding from one of the parallel end faces of the spacer body so as to be engaged with the inner peripheral surface of one end portion of the outer rings to prevent the spacer body from being displaced radially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventor: Seizo Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 5785434
    Abstract: An adjustable spacer of the type shaped as a ring for mounting between a pair of tapered bearings mounted on an axle or spindle to allow a load to be axially placed on the bearings is disclosed. The adjustable spacer may include an extension located at a radius from an imaginary axis of the spacer, a contact means oriented radially outward from the extension, and a compressible area located between the contact means and the extension wherein the compressible area deforms when a predetermined load is applied to the ring in the axial direction. The adjustable spacer may be configured to be used with an adapter sleeve for use on axles or spindles of multiple radius.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Temper Corporation
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 5718519
    Abstract: A slide bearing fashioned as a ball bearing or a roller bearing, wherein contact portions of a roll shaft and a bearing, and rolling elements are formed of a combination of a ceramic material and a solid lubricant material. The slide bearing is advantageously utilized in a continuous hot dipping apparatus in which ball bearings or roller bearings are used as bearings of a sink roll and guide rolls of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takahiko Ookouchi, Tamihito Kawahigashi
  • Patent number: 5702187
    Abstract: An antifriction bearing having one or two rows of rolling bodies has at least one guide ring guided on the outside ring race for guidance of the rollers and/or of the separator. The guide ring comprises two partial circumference ring segments which are arranged loosely between or adjacent one or each of the rows of rolling bodies and are held in form-locked manner in the spherical surface of the outer ring due to resilience of the ring segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: FAG OEM und Handel AG
    Inventors: Michael Weigand, Werner Ganss, Martin Grehn
  • Patent number: 5626519
    Abstract: A structure for retaining a plurality of roller bearings within a bearing cup prior to being assembled on a trunnion of a universal joint assembly is disclosed. The bearing cup is generally hollow and cylindrical in shape, including a side wall defining an inner circumferential surface and a closed end defining an inner end surface. A plurality of roller bearings is disposed within the bearing cup adjacent to the inner cylindrical surface thereof. A first roller bearing retainer is disposed adjacent to the open end of the bearing cup, while a second roller bearing retainer is disposed adjacent to the closed end of the bearing cup. Each of the roller bearing retainers includes a generally flat annular plate having a plurality of relatively short projections extending therefrom. Preferably, the projections are formed integrally with the annular plate and extend from the inner peripheral edge generally perpendicular to the plane defined by the upper surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Robert G. Joyner
  • Patent number: 5597243
    Abstract: The invention concerns a radial rolling bearing having cylindrical rolling elements which roll between an inner and an outer ring while individual spacers are disposed between every two adjacent rolling elements, the spacers comprising, on both sides of their central longitudinal plane, contact surfaces while being guided during rotation of the radial rolling bearing by one of their end sections on a raceway of the inner or the outer ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Ina Walzlager Schaeffler KG
    Inventors: Theodor Kaiser, Roland Lippert, Cornelius Hartmann, Horst D. Kohler, Ernst Mayer, Bruno Scherb
  • Patent number: 5549397
    Abstract: An adjustable spacer of the type shaped as a ring for mounting between a pair of tapered bearings mounted on an axle or spindle to allow a load to be axially placed on the bearings is disclosed. The adjustable spacer may include an extension located at a radius from an imaginary axis of the spacer, a contact means oriented radially outward from the extension, and a compressible area located between the contact means and the extension wherein the compressible area deforms when a predetermined load is applied to the ring in the axial direction. The adjustable spacer may be configured to be used with an adapter sleeve for use on axles or spindles of multiple radius.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Temper Corporation
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 5505547
    Abstract: A supporting structure for a drive shaft of an electrically driven power steering motor is presented to prevent axial displacement of the drive shaft. Around the entire peripheral outer circumference of a hollow cylindrical drive shaft, a radially protruding flange section of a U-shaped cross section is provided to engage with the shaft bearing freely rotatably supporting the drive shaft, and prevent an axial displacement of the drive shaft. The support structure exhibits little deformation due to spring back, because of the improved resistance to axial loading and retains excellent original shape of the flange section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignee: Mutsuba Electric Mgf. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadao Kodaira
  • Patent number: 5492419
    Abstract: A self lubricated and sealed pinion cartridge bearing assembly for use with a gear reduction system which may be used for example for providing rotating shaft support for a pinion shaft of a motor vehicle drive axle. The bearing assembly has a pair of anti-friction bearings having an outer and inner race and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart rolling elements which roll along inner and outer raceways. A spacer is provided between the bearing inner races, and at least one seal is formed between the inner races and the spacer to circumferentially seal the inner races together. A pair of seals are further provided between the inner and outer races of each bearing at each outboard face to form barriers at the ends of the bearing assembly for retaining lubricating oil within the bearing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: John R. Miller, Robert W. Frayer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5421656
    Abstract: A spacer (10) for a helicopter main rotor shaft (102) is mounted in combination with the main rotor shaft (102) and is operative to support the inner race (116) of the upper bearing assembly (110) of the main rotor shaft (102) and is concomitantly operative to restrain axial migration of the inner race (116). The spacer (10) comprises a body member (11) having a stepped configuration defined by an upper cylindrical segment (12) and a lower cylindrical segment (20) to accommodate the outer structural envelope of the main rotor shaft (102). The upper cylindrical segment (12) includes an upper annular collar (14), an intermediate annular collar (16), and a lower annular collar (18), and the lower cylindrical segment (20) includes an interface annular collar (22) and a bottom annular collar (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony G. Chory, Mark L. Thorn, Charles Geffert, Jeffrey A. Holmes, William J. Sobanik, Edward J. Karedes
  • Patent number: 5380102
    Abstract: Disclosed is a double row tapered roller bearing assembly employing a contoured, maximum journal-contact bearing seal wear ring especially adapted to be installed on a journal at the end of a shaft or axle with the wear ring providing an interference fit contact area engaging the journal over at least a major portion of the axial length of the wear ring. Stress risers are eliminated by providing smooth contoured surface junctures to thereby substantially reduce fretting wear on the journal, with the increased contact area facilitating heat transfer to the shaft to extend seal life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Assignee: Brenco Incorporated
    Inventor: Danny R. Sink
  • Patent number: 5249871
    Abstract: A ball bearing assembly with a spacer to prevent ball bearing failures. The spacer has a ring with a tongue that fits into a groove in a second spacer ring. One spacer ring is coupled to the outer ring of the ball bearing assembly and the other spacer ring is coupled to the inner ring of the ball bearing assembly. The spacer therefore allows relative rotation of the rings of the ball bearing assembly but prevents relative translation of the rings beyond a point which will damage the ball bearing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Richard R. LaTorre, George C. Cusiter
  • Patent number: 5149208
    Abstract: A bearing has a plurality of rolling elements in a raceway which are separated by lubricating spacer elements and non-lubricating spacer elements. The lubricating spacer elements are free to float between the rolling elements and can provide all of the lubrication for the bearing. The non-lubricating spacer elements may also be free to float between the rolling elements or can be provided by a cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Balanced Engines, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Zornes
  • Patent number: 5123756
    Abstract: A spherical roller thrust bearing comprises two bearing rings rotatably guided by spherical roller elements for rotation about an axis. The roller elements are spaced circumferentially apart by a segmented retainer comprising separate retainer segments spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Each retainer segment includes opposite circumferentially facing surfaces engaging adjacent roller elements. Each surface includes at least one projection making point contact with a peripheral surface of a roller at a location whereby the force transmitted between the roller elements by the segments excludes a radially inward force component. The projections are located relative to the roller elements such that the segments tend to hang upon the roller elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: AB SKF
    Inventors: Rafael Amen, Bo Goransson, Rolf Gustafsson, Nils Nyman
  • Patent number: 5121647
    Abstract: A composite motion guiding unit comprises a shaft provided with helical ball screw grooves formed in the outer peripheral surface thereof and ball spline grooves formed in the outer peripheral surface thereof so as to extend in the axial direction of the shaft across the ball screw grooves and a ball screw nut and a ball spline outer cylinder both mounted on the shaft to be engageable with the ball screw grooves and ball spline grooves respectively through a number of balls. The ball screw nut and the ball spline outer cylinder are both supported by a housing to be rotatable through bearings and are driven by driving means to rotate the same, thus constituting a composite motion guiding apparatus. The ball screw grooves and the ball spline grooves have depths equal to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Inventor: Hiroshi Teramachi
  • Patent number: 5040906
    Abstract: A bearing has rolling elements separated by floating spacer elements. Some of the floating spacer elements provide solid lubricant for lubricating the bearing. Other floating spacer elements may be non-lubricating. The lubricant-providing elements are alternated with the non-lubricating elements to maintain the alignment and spacing of the rolling elements, thereby promoting proper operation of the bearings throughout the life of the lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Balanced Engines, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Zornes
  • Patent number: 5009524
    Abstract: Two-row, self-aligning roller bearing comprising an outer ring with a spherical bore defining an outer raceway, an inner ring having raceways, and rollers between the rings rolling on the inner and outer raceways, these rollers having a convex lateral surface, a cage for guiding the rollers, the cage being split into two halves, each half holding one row of rollers and each half of the cage being guided in a sliding manner in the bore of the outer ring, a loose guide ring on the inner ring between the rows of rollers, a lubricant supply hole in the outer ring, the cage halves (6, 7) being located at a distance (A) from each other which is equal to or greater than the diameter of the oil supply hole (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1991
    Assignee: SKF GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Dittenhoefer