WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY

Description

1 / 30 WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY

[001] The present invention relates to a wheel bearing assembly comprising a wheel hub, a wheel bearing, which is disposed in the wheel hub, a wheel support, in which the wheel bearing is fixed with an outer ring of the wheel bearing, a constant velocity joint, which is axially pre-tensioned with the wheel hub by means of a flat toothed assembly with notches, and a sealing ring that radially and externally surrounds and seals the flat toothed assembly with notches.

[002] In wheel bearing assemblies of drive wheel axles, flat toothed assemblies with axially pre-tensioned splines are increasingly used as a link for backlash-free torque transmission between a drive shaft and a wheel hub. Particularly in the transmission of high torques, especially in the case of electrically driven motor vehicles, the use of such flat toothed assemblies with axially pre-tensioned splines, which are occasionally also referred to as Hirth toothed assemblies or front toothed assemblies, offers advantages compared to conventional longitudinal splined assemblies, since torque transmission, even under high and variable torques, can be ensured without relative movements that can result from the torsional elasticity of the longitudinal splined adjustment, and without annoying noise (Ping Noise).

[003] To ensure the torque transmission function, the flat toothed assembly with notches must be pre-tensioned with a high axial force. The two flat toothed assemblies with notches, which are coupled to each other and consequently subjected to high material stresses, must be adequately protected against corrosion.

[004] A generic wheel bearing assembly of the Menci type Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 6 / 57 2 / 30 The above-mentioned design is known from patent DE 10 2015 211 455 B4. Specifically, in document DE 10 2015 211 455 B4, a spacer is suggested that is disposed between the wheel bearing and the drive shaft. This spacer has a support rib that radially seals the flat toothed assembly with notches in the assembled state, as well as a sealing section that extends radially, acting in conjunction with the outer ring of the wheel bearing as a pre-seal for it. In assembly, the spacer and inner rings of the axial wheel bearing are pushed together and axially fixed between the wheel hub and the articulated shaft. In other words, the axial forces of the wheel bearing are supported here by means of the spacer, such that it must be properly reinforced. The sealing function is acquired at a correspondingly high price.

[005] Other sealing concepts for wheel bearing assemblies with torque transmission via a flat toothed assembly with notches are known from documents WO 2010 / 018041 A1 and WO 2006 / 111146 A2.

[006] The invention aims to indicate alternative sealing concepts for a wheel bearing assembly of the type mentioned above.

[007] This objective is solved by a wheel bearing assembly with the characteristics of claim 1. The wheel bearing assembly, according to the invention, stands out particularly in that the sealing ring is pre-assembled on the constant velocity joint and, in the assembled state of the wheel bearing assembly, is coupled outside the power flow of the wheel bearing with the wheel hub, wherein the sealing ring provides, at the same time, in interaction with the wheel support, a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 7 / 57 3 / 30

[008] In comparison to document DE 10 2015 211 455 B4, in the solution according to the invention, the sealing ring is no longer in the path of the shear forces acting on the wheel bearing, but is supported, for example, against a front wall of the wheel hub. This allows the sealing ring to be manufactured considerably more economically, for example, from plastic. In this case, it serves both as a seal in relation to the flat toothed assembly with notches against the penetration of water and dirt, and as a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing, preventing water and dirt from penetrating the actual seal of the wheel bearing. By providing the pre-seal, the wheel bearing seal itself can be achieved more easily and with less friction.

[009] Particular embodiments of the invention are the subject of other patent claims.

[0010] Thus, for example, the sealing ring may have a first sealing section in the form of a sleeve for radial sealing of the flat toothed assembly with notches and a second sealing section in the form of a sleeve for providing pre-sealing, wherein the second sealing section in the form of a sleeve is joined to the first sealing section by a radial rib. In this way, a relatively complex labyrinth can be developed which is suitable for strongly inhibiting the passage of water and dirt.

[0011] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the radial rib can connect to an axial terminal section of the first sleeve-shaped sealing section.

[0012] In particular, the second sealing section in the form of a sleeve and the rib together with a protrusion located on the wheel support, can form a sealing labyrinth, whose path, from the outside to the inside of the pre-seal, in a plane of the se Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 8 / 57 4 / 30 longitudinal action, includes at least two changes of direction. This is also suitable for strongly inhibiting the passage of water and dirt and thus their advance towards the wheel bearing seal itself.

[0013] In another particular embodiment of the invention, the first sleeve-shaped sealing section, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section and the rib can form a longitudinal section plane, for example, a C-shaped longitudinal section profile, such that an annular groove is formed, in which a corresponding longitudinal section profile engages with the wheel support, wherein, between the first sleeve-shaped sealing section, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section and the rib, on the one hand, and the corresponding longitudinal section profile on the wheel support, on the other hand, a labyrinth-like sealing gap is formed.

[0014] The profile of the corresponding longitudinal section in the wheel support may, in turn, have at least one annular groove that corresponds to the profile in the sealing ring to create a long, multiple-angled labyrinthine path for sealing purposes.

[0015] The object mentioned above is further solved by a wheel bearing assembly according to patent claim 8, comprising: a wheel hub, a wheel bearing, which is disposed in the wheel hub, a wheel support, in which the wheel bearing is fixed to an outer ring of the wheel bearing, a constant velocity joint, which is axially pre-tensioned with the wheel hub by a flat toothed assembly with notches, and a sealing ring that radially and externally surrounds and seals the flat toothed assembly with notches. The wheel bearing assembly, according to the invention, is distinguished by the fact that the sealing ring has a first sealing section in the form of a sleeve for Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 9 / 57 5 / 30 a radial seal of the flat toothed assembly with notches and a second sleeve-shaped sealing section for providing a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing, wherein the second sleeve-shaped sealing section is joined to the first sealing section by means of a radial rib and the wheel carrier has an annular groove, wherein, between the first sleeve-shaped sealing section, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section and the rib, on the one hand, and the annular groove in the wheel carrier, on the other hand, a labyrinth-like sealing gap is formed. This allows, compared with document DE 10 2015 211 455 B4, at considerably lower costs, a significant improvement, particularly in the sealing effect of the pre-seal for the wheel bearing. The improved pre-sealing effect again allows the use of particularly low-friction wheel bearing seals in the wheel bearing.

[0016] The sealing ring can also be produced, in particular, from synthetic material, so there is greater freedom in terms of design, which, for example, allows for a more complex and therefore more effective sealing of the gap than in document DE 10 2015 211 455 B4.

[0017] According to another particular embodiment of the invention, the sealing ring may have a third sealing section in the form of a sleeve, which projects axially from the second sealing section towards the constant velocity joint and rests against a sealing element of the constant velocity joint, providing a seal. This allows for complete external coverage of the constant velocity joint, making it possible to dispense with any painting of the joint to ensure a rust-free appearance. The coverage by the sealing ring and the sealing element of the constant velocity joint thus extends from the pre-sealing of the wheel bearing. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 10 / 57 6 / 30 continuously until the outward-facing opening of the constant-velocity joint wheel of an associated drive shaft.

[0018] In a variation thereof, according to another particular embodiment of the invention, the sealing ring may have a third sealing section in the form of a sleeve that projects axially from the second sealing section in the direction of the constant velocity joint and forms, with a sealing element of the constant velocity joint, an annular gap such that incoming water can be discharged under centrifugal force. Such a deliberately designed annular gap allows forced drainage of water as soon as the constant velocity joint is set in rotation.

[0019] Preferably, such an annular groove has a merely reduced groove opening of 1 to 3 mm, where the basic covering function remains guaranteed. In most applications, the main objective is to ensure a rust-free appearance.

[0020] The sealing element of the constant velocity joint may be, in particular, a folding bellows, a roll-up bellows and / or a metal cap. This sealing element seals the constant velocity joint on its opening side in such a way that there is no passage of grease or dirt into the constant velocity joint. Metal caps are generally crimped or flanged onto the outer diameter of the constant velocity joint. Folding bellows and roll-up bellows may be fixed, for example, by hose clamps or similar on the outer diameter of the constant velocity joint.

[0021] According to another particular embodiment of the invention, the third sealing section may extend radially further outward than the furthest radially outward extension of an annular groove for coupling with the second sleeve-shaped sealing section. Thus, it is possible to achieve an improvement in pre-sealing. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 11 / 57 7 / 30

[0022] According to another particular embodiment of the invention, the flat toothed assembly with notches has a first flat toothing in the wheel hub and a second flat toothing in the constant velocity joint, which are in toothed coupling with each other, as well as a clamping device, whereby, in the tensioned state thereof, the first flat toothing and the second flat toothing are axially compressed together, wherein, furthermore, the sealing ring provides, in the untensioned state of the clamping device, a mounting lock, whereby the first flat toothing and the second flat toothing are maintained in non-fixed coupling with each other, such that an axial clearance is less than the height of the teeth of the first flat toothing and the second flat toothing. By means of this, the assembly of the wheel bearing assembly is simplified.Specifically, this allows for easy decoupling of the assembly steps, i.e., the alignment of the components to be joined, ensuring that tooth-to-tooth assembly is excluded on the one hand, and fastening on the other. This keeps handling simple. All functions, namely, the sealing of the flat toothed assembly with notches, the pre-sealing of the wheel bearing, as well as the assembly aid, are integrated into a single component, which can be manufactured simply and economically.

[0023] In another particular embodiment of the invention, the sealing ring is fixed to one of the constant velocity joints and to the wheel hub and is coupled to the other constant velocity joints and to the wheel hub by a locking mechanism. This allows the sealing ring to be pre-assembled onto one of the components to be joined. For example, the sealing ring may be firmly pressed, glued or otherwise fixed onto one of the two components, while during assembly it perceptibly fits with the other, thus allowing a pre-alignment of the components before the assembly. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 12 / 57 8 / 30 effective flat toothed assembly with notches.

[0024] Next, embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail based on the embodiments shown in the figures. The figures show: Figure 1 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, Figure 2 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention and Figure 3 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Figure 5 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. Figure 6 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. Figure 7 - a schematic representation of a variant embodiment for illustrating a pre-assembly position (left) and a final assembly position (right) of the components to be assembled together, including a flat toothed assembly with axially pre-tensioned notches, Figure 8 - a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a wheel bearing assembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 13 / 57 9 / 30 Figure 9 - a cross-sectional view of an early variant embodiment of a sealing ring, Figure 10 - a cross-sectional view of a second variant of the sealing ring, and in Figure 11 - an exploded view of a wheel bearing assembly with a wheel support, a constant velocity joint and a wheel hub with wheel bearing, which can be joined together by a flat toothed assembly with axially pre-tensioned notches.

[0025] The embodiments explained in more detail below of different wheel bearing assemblies comprise, respectively, a wheel hub 10, a wheel bearing 20, which is disposed in the wheel hub 10, a wheel support 30, in which the wheel bearing 20 is fixed with an outer ring of the wheel bearing 21 and a constant velocity joint 40 of a drive shaft which is axially prestressed with the wheel hub 10 by a flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41, explained in more detail below, for torque transmission.

[0026] In addition, the wheel bearing assemblies have, respectively, a sealing ring 50 that surrounds and radially and externally seals the flat toothed assembly with notches. This sealing ring 50 is pre-assembled on the constant velocity joint 40 and, in the assembled state of the wheel bearing assembly, is coupled with the wheel hub 10, outside the power flow of the wheel bearing 20.

[0027] At the same time, this sealing ring 50 forms, together with the wheel support 30, a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing 20, to prevent water and dirt from penetrating the wheel bearing 20.

[0028] For example, the 50 sealing ring may have a Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 14 / 57 10 / 30 front side 51 which, in the assembled state, is pressed against a front wall 12 opposite the wheel hub 10.

[0029] In wheel bearing 20, particularly its bearings 22 and 23, which rotatably support the outer ring of wheel bearing 21 against the wheel hub 10, additional dedicated seals of wheel bearings 24 and 25 may be provided that seal bearings 22 and 23 externally. Said contact-free pre-seal, which is provided by the sealing ring 50, is spaced between bearings 22 and 23 and is located between the constant velocity joint 40 and the wheel support 30. Due to the pre-seal by the sealing ring 50, the dedicated seals of wheel bearings 24 and 25 may be implemented in a particularly low-friction manner.

[0030] Bearings 22 and 23 can be implemented as complete bearings, each with respectively an inner ring and an outer ring of the bearing, as well as with rolling elements arranged between them. It is also possible to integrate individual bearing rings into an overall outer ring of the wheel bearing 21 and / or into the wheel hub 10.

[0031] In Figure 1, by way of example, the outer rings of bearings 22 and 23 are joined in a common outer ring of the wheel bearing 21, which also forms support and fastening structures 26 for connection to the wheel support 30.

[0032] For the constant velocity joint bearing 22, as shown on the left in Figure 1, the inner ring of the bearing is integrated into the wheel hub 10. For example, for the bearing 23 near the constant velocity joint, as shown on the right in Figure 1, the inner ring of the bearing 29 is implemented as an independent component. This inner ring of the bearing 29 can be understood, below, as a component or subsection of the wheel hub 10. In this regard, the sealing ring 50 mentioned earlier, according to the configuration of Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 15 / 57 11 / 30 inner bearing rings, can also rest on a front wall 12 of such an inner bearing ring 29 which functions, in this case, as part of the wheel hub 10.

[0033] Provided that there are separate bearing rings, these are fixed and axially supported with suitable axial fastening devices, such as, for example, bearing shoulders, axial retaining rings, housing grooves or the like in the respective outer ring of the wheel bearing 21 or in the wheel hub 10. The inner ring of the bearing 29 can be fixed, for example, by forming a terminal section of the wheel hub 10, in the wheel hub 10. This can occur, for example, by oscillating forging or oscillating pressing. The sealing ring 50 therefore does not need to absorb any axial force from the bearing. Since it has no load-bearing function, the sealing ring 50 offers great design freedom. This means that more complex shapes are also possible. In particular, the sealing ring 50 can be economically produced from synthetic material.

[0034] Furthermore, this allows the integration of a wheel speed sensor, whose emitter is arranged as a ring in the wheel bearing seal 25. The associated transducer can, for example, be arranged axially between the wheel bearing seal 25 and the sealing ring 50, while the associated sensor housing can be seated, with other components of the wheel speed sensor, in a recess or hole in the wheel support 30.

[0035] In addition to providing a pre-seal for the wheel bearing 20, the sealing ring 50 is also intended to radially and externally enclose and seal the aforementioned flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41 and thus protect it against corrosion. For this purpose, the sealing ring 50 can be fixed axially, for example, between the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40. Also Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 16 / 57 12 / 30 it is possible, however, to fix the sealing ring 50 in another way to the aforementioned components, for example, by fastening, pressing, gluing or something similar.

[0036] The flat toothed set with notches 11 / 41 forms the interface between the constant velocity joint 40 and the wheel hub 10. On opposite front walls of the constant velocity joint 40 and the wheel hub 10, a flat toothing 11 or 41 is formed for this purpose, respectively. The teeth of both flat toothings 11 and 41 are mutually coupled. In this document, flat toothing is understood to mean a radial toothed structure on the front side of one component that can be coupled with a radial toothed structure on the front side of another component for the purpose of transmitting torque. The toothing coupling is backlash-free and suitable for transmitting high torques. Such flat toothed sets with notches are sometimes also called Hirth toothing sets or front toothing sets.

[0037] A clamping device 60, preferably in the form of a clamping pin, is intended, in its tensioned state, to maintain both flat teeth 11 and 41 in axial coupling with each other, in the wheel hub 10 and in the constant velocity joint 40.

[0038] The clamping device 60 preferably extends in the center, passing through both flat teeth 11 and 41. In particular, the clamping device 60, respectively the clamping pin, can rest with a head 61 on the wheel hub 10 and be screwed to the constant velocity joint 40 by a thread 62. Reverse installation is also possible.

[0039] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment, in which the sealing ring 50 has a first sealing section in the form of a sleeve 51 that surrounds the flat toothed assembly with radial notches 11 / 41 in the form of a sleeve and rests, for example, Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 17 / 57 13 / 30 in corresponding outer circumferential sections of the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40. In this case, a first front side 52 of the sealing ring 50 rests against a front wall 12 of the wheel hub 10, here, against the inner ring of the bearing 29 of the right bearing 23, and a second opposite front side 53 against a protrusion of the wall 42 of the constant velocity joint 40. The sealing function, from the point of view of the flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41, can be performed, in this case, on the front sides 52, 53 and / or in relation to the outer circumferential sections of the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40. If the sealing occurs against the outer circumferential sections of the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40, an axial support of the front sides 52 and / or 53 may be dispensed with.

[0040] From the first section of the glove-shaped seal 51, a circumferential rib 54 protrudes.With corresponding wall sections, in the wheel support 30, this rib 54 forms a narrow slot, which inhibits the entry of water and dirt and thus provides pre-sealing for the wheel bearing 20 or its wheel bearing seal 25.

[0041] In particular, for this purpose, in the wheel support 30, a radially inward projection 31 can be formed, which has an axial annular wall 32 parallel to the rib 54. In the longitudinal section profile of the sealing ring 50 according to Figure 1, a continuous radial slot path is obtained in relation to the axis of rotation A of the wheel hub 10, whose length is significantly greater than an axial path, on the outside of the slot seal between the radial outer edge 55 of the rib 54 and the wheel support 30.

[0042] An additional, axial path on the inner side of the gap seal may be provided between an inner radial edge 33 of the shoulder 31 and the first sleeve-shaped seal section 51 or a level 56 Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 18 / 57 14 / 30 is additionally provided for therein, as shown in Figure 1.

[0043] Since the protrusion 31 is located on the wheel support 30, the protrusion 31 can be designed with relative freedom. In particular, it is possible to form the protrusion 31 integrally with the wheel support 30. It is also possible, however, to attach a corresponding ring for the protrusion 31 to the wheel support 30 in order to obtain, eventually, more complex sealing slot configurations or labyrinths.

[0044] An alternative labyrinthine form for the pre-seal sealing gap is shown, by way of example, in Figure 2. In this case, the sealing ring 50 has, in addition to the first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51 for radial sealing of the flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41, a second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 for providing the pre-seal, wherein the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 is joined to the first sealing section 52 by a radial rib 54.

[0045] The first sealing section in the form of a sleeve 51 can be implemented, in this case, with or without level 56, as in Figure 1.

[0046] In particular, the first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 and the rib 54 can form a longitudinal section plane, for example, a C-shaped longitudinal section profile, such that an annular groove 58 is formed in the sealing ring 50 around the axis of rotation A in which a corresponding longitudinal section profile engages with the wheel support 30. In this case, as shown particularly in Figure 2, between the first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 and the rib 54, on the one hand, and the corresponding longitudinal section profile, in the wheel support 30, on the other hand, a complex sealing labyrinth gap is formed, which offers, in the context of a pre-seal, a high level of protection against the ingress of water and dirt. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 19 / 57 15 / 30

[0047] The corresponding longitudinal section profile in the wheel support 30 may, in turn, have at least one annular groove 34, for example, in said protrusion 31. In this case, the annular grooves 58 and 34 may be interlocked with each other in the sealing ring 50 and in the wheel support 30, to achieve, within a compact space, the longest possible gap path in the pre-seal. In Figure 2, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 extends into the annular groove 34 in the wheel support 30. Similarly, the inner edge 35 of the annular groove 34 extends axially into the annular groove 58 in the sealing ring 50. This principle can be extended by connecting several annular grooves in series.

[0048] In the examples of embodiments represented, the radial rib 54 may preferably connect to an axial terminal section of the first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51, preferably on the sides of the constant velocity joint.

[0049] Preferably, the first and second sleeve-shaped sealing sections 51, 57 extend in the same axial direction as the rib 54.

[0050] The second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 and the rib 54, as well as possibly the first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51, together with the protrusion 31 on the wheel support 30, form a sealing labyrinth, the path of which from the outside to the inside of the pre-seal in a plane of the longitudinal section includes at least two changes of direction, particularly three or even four changes of direction to inhibit the entry of water and dirt.

[0051] In variation from the embodiment examples in Figures 1 and 2, the sealing ring 50 can also be installed with axial rotation of 180°. In Figure 2, the annular groove 58 does not open, therefore, to the joint. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 20 / 57 16 / 30 constant velocity joint 40, but at the wheel hub 10.

[0052] Furthermore, instead of pre-assembling the sealing ring 50 on the constant velocity joint 40, it is possible to pre-assemble the sealing ring 50 initially on the wheel hub 10, so that it is then coupled with the constant velocity joint 40 during the assembly of the wheel bearing assembly.

[0053] Another wheel bearing assembly, according to the invention, comprises at least the wheel hub 10, a wheel bearing 20, which is disposed in the wheel hub 10, a wheel support 30, in which the wheel bearing 20 is fixed with an outer ring of the wheel bearing 21, the constant velocity joint 40, which is axially pre-tensioned with the wheel hub 10 by a flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41, and the sealing ring 50, which surrounds and radially and externally seals the flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41.This other wheel bearing assembly is further developed in such a way that the sealing ring 50, analogous to Figure 2, has both a first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51 for radial sealing of the flat toothed assembly with notches 11 / 41 and a second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 for providing a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing 20, wherein the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 is joined to the first sealing section 51 by a radial rib 54. Furthermore, the wheel carrier 30 has an annular groove 34, wherein, between the first sleeve-shaped sealing section 51, the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57 and the rib 54, on the one hand, and the annular groove 34 in the wheel carrier 30, on the other hand, a labyrinth-like sealing gap is formed. Due to the long path of the slit through the sealing labyrinth, a particularly good pre-sealing effectiveness is thus achieved.

[0054] The examples of modality explained above Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 21 / 57 17 / 30 can be modified in relation to the sealing ring 50 so that, in the sealing ring 50, a third sealing section 59 in the form of a sleeve is additionally provided, which projects from the second sealing section 57 in the direction of the constant velocity joint 40 and is supported axially and provides a seal against a sealing element 70 of the constant velocity joint 40 as shown exemplarily in Figures 3 and 4.

[0055] The sealing element 70 of the constant velocity joint 40 may be, for example, a folding bellows 71, a rollable bellows, a metal cap 72 with a folding bellows or similar. This is intended to seal the constant velocity joint 40 on its opening side in such a way that no grease or dirt enters the constant velocity joint 40. Metal caps 72 are normally pressed or flanged onto the outer circumference of the constant velocity joint 40. Folding bellows 71 and rollable bellows may be fixed, for example, by hose clamps, fastening straps or similar, to the outer circumference of the constant velocity joint 40.

[0056] Through contact between the third sleeve-shaped sealing section 59 of the sealing ring 50 and the sealing element 70 of the constant velocity joint 40, the constant velocity joint 40 is completely covered externally, so that it is possible to dispense with painting the external surfaces of the constant velocity joint 40 to ensure a rust-free appearance. The sealing ring 50 closes the gap, so to speak, between the sealing element 70 of the constant velocity joint 40 and the wheel hub 10 as a kind of cover.

[0057] In another example of embodiment according to Figure 5, in variation of Figures 3 and 4, a smaller annular gap 73 can also be consciously provided between the sealing ring 50 and the sealing element 70 of the constant velocity joint 40 so that the incoming water can quickly escape again. Here, it can be Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 22 / 57 18 / 30 utilizes the centrifugal force acting on the rotating drive shaft. As shown in Figure 5, the sealing ring 50 correspondingly has a third sealing section in the form of a sleeve 59, which projects axially from the second sealing section 57 towards the constant velocity joint 40 and, with the sealing element 70 of the constant velocity joint 40, forms an annular gap 73, such that the incoming water can be discharged under centrifugal force. The annular gap 73 preferably has a gap width of 1 to 3 mm.

[0058] The third sealing section 59 in Figures 3, 4 and 5 can also be implemented in such a way that it extends radially further outwards than the furthest radially outward extension of an annular groove 34 for coupling with the second sleeve-shaped sealing section 57, to further weaken the entry of water and dirt through the pre-seal.

[0059] Furthermore, as explained below, based on Figures 6 to 11, the sealing ring 50 can also be used as an assembly aid in the installation of the wheel bearing assembly. When assembling a flat toothed assembly with notches, it must be considered that the corresponding flat teeth 11 and 41 engage correctly with each other to avoid tooth-by-tooth assembly. Such an assembly aid function can also be provided by the embodiment examples already explained above.

[0060] The sixth embodiment example in Figure 6 shows a flat toothed assembly with axially pre-tensioned notches in the final fixed mounting position.

[0061] This comprises the first flat toothing 11 in the wheel hub 10. Flat toothing is understood, in this document, to be a radial toothed structure on the front side of a component that can be coupled with a radial toothed structure on the side. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 23 / 57 19 / 30 front on another component for the purpose of transmitting torque. The axially prestressed flat toothed assembly further comprises the second flat tooth 41 on the articulated shaft 40. In this case, the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 remain mutually coupled by toothing. This is illustrated in Figure 6 as backlash-free and suitable for transmitting higher torques.

[0062] Furthermore, the axially pre-tensioned flat toothed assembly comprises the clamping device 60, preferably in the form of a clamping pin, through which, in the tensioned state thereof, the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 are axially compressed against each other. The clamping device 60 preferably extends in the center passing through both flat teeth 11 and 41. In particular, the clamping device 60, respectively, the clamping pin, can rest on the wheel hub 20 and be bolted to the constant velocity joint 40. Reverse installation is also possible.

[0063] The sealing ring 50 surrounds the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 radially, externally and sealing them. Through the sealing ring 50, in a manner explained in more detail below, the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 are maintained in a non-fixed coupling with each other. This coupling state is also predominantly observed as a pre-assembly position, in which the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40 are already more or less aligned with each other and are protected against falling by the sealing ring 50.

[0064] As illustrated in Figure 7, on the left, in this case, in the pre-assembly position, an axial clearance x between the two flat teeth 11 and 41 is less than the height h of the teeth of the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41. When the position Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 24 / 57 20 / 30 of pre-assembly is achieved, it is possible, therefore, to assume that a tooth-to-tooth position of the teeth of the first flat toothing 11 and the second flat toothing 41 is excluded.

[0065] In a second step, correspondingly, after the production of the pre-assembly position, the clamping device 60 can be fixed, to produce a backlash-free coupling of the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 and, correspondingly, achieve the final assembly position shown in Figure 7, on the right, as well as in Figure 6.

[0066] In the final assembly position, the penetration of moisture and dirt from the outside into the joint between the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 through the sealing ring 50 is reliably prevented, whereby the toothed coupling is protected against corrosion.

[0067] The arrangement of the sealing ring 50 in relation to the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40, as well as its configuration, can be carried out in several ways, as explained in more detail below. In this case, it should be considered that the arrangement of the sealing ring 50, as well as any coupling structures in relation to the constant velocity joint 40 as the first component and the wheel hub 10 as the second component, can also, in principle, be reversed.

[0068] In one embodiment, as exemplified in Figures 6 to 8, the sealing ring 50 can be fixed to one of the first and second components, while being coupled to the other of the first and second components by means of a locking mechanism 501. The click of the locking mechanism can be used to reliably recognize that the pre-assembly position has been reached, therefore a tooth-to-tooth position is excluded. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 25 / 57 21 / 30

[0069] The fixing of the sealing ring 50 to one of the first and second components, in this document, by way of example, the constant velocity joint 40 as the first component, can be carried out by pressure, gluing or any other method. Preferably this has already been done, before both components, namely the wheel hub 10 and the constant velocity joint 40, are joined together to reach the pre-assembly position.

[0070] For the locking mechanism 501, locking tabs 502 are formed in the sealing ring 50, which are arranged distributed around its circumference, and which, after passing over a protrusion 101 in the other component, in this document, by way of example, the second component or the wheel hub 10, engage with one or more recesses 102 in the other or second component.

[0071] A cross-sectional view of such a sealing ring 50 is shown in Figure 9. This sealing ring 50 predominantly has three locking tabs 502 on its inner circumference surface 503. The number of locking tabs 502 may, however, be shown to be less or greater than that shown. Preferably the number is in a range of approximately 3 to 20.

[0072] Respectively, the corresponding protrusion 101 and the corresponding recess 102 are located in a section of the outer circumference of the second component. The protrusion 101 and the recess 102 can be formed, in this case, as continuous circumferential structures, such that the angular position of the sealing ring 50 in the circumferential direction is irrelevant during assembly. It is possible, however, to provide the protrusion 101 through several individual protrusions and / or the recess 102 through several individual recesses.

[0073] In variation to the forms of realization represented, contu Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 26 / 57 22 / 30 of, the locking tabs 502 can be arranged not on the surface of the inner circumference 503, but also on a surface of the outer circumference 504 of the sealing ring 50. Respectively, then, the protrusion 101 and the recess 102 of the second component are located in an inner circumferential section of the ring.

[0074] As already mentioned, the locking tabs 102 are housed, in the unstressed state of the clamping device 60, with axial clearance in the corresponding recess(s) 102. Preferably, when the locking tabs 502 overcome the shoulder 101, the coverage of the teeth of the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth is 41 30 % to 90 % of the tooth height of the teeth.

[0075] Instead of being performed by locking tabs 502, pre-fixing in the pre-assembly position, analogous to Figure 7, on the left, can also occur by a sealing ring 50 slotted in this sub-area. Figure 10 shows, respectively exemplarily, another variant of the sealing ring 50, which is slotted in several places around the circumference. This facilitates locking it in an external circumferential section or an internal circumferential section of the second component. The slots 505 are positioned in such a way that the sealing effect remains ensured by the sealing ring 50. The number of slots 505 is represented by four in Figure 10. However, similarly to the locking tabs 502, their number can also be selected to be smaller or larger.The adjustment is made for both the locking tabs 502 and the slots 505 in such a way that the dead weight of the components to be joined 10 and 40, as well as the forces during the clamping of the clamping device 60, can be reliably maintained.

[0076] To simplify assembly, particularly when using Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 27 / 57 23 / 30 a locking mechanism 501 with locking tabs 502, the sealing ring 50 may have a section 504, in which these locking tabs 502 are formed, being radially retractable and elastically extensible, to facilitate overcoming a retention resistance formed by the shoulder 101.

[0077] For this purpose, chamfers formed in the locking tongues 502 and / or in the shoulder 102 can also exert a support effect.

[0078] In addition, the sealing ring 50 may have a circumferential sealing surface 506, which, in the tensioned state of the clamping device 60, is pressed against a corresponding sealing surface 13 on the other component, in this document, by way of example, the second component or the wheel hub 10.

[0079] The sealing surface 506 in the sealing ring 50 can be formed by a section of the front side wall thereof, as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0080] In particular, as shown in the context of the other embodiment example according to Figure 8, the circumferential sealing surface 506 on the sealing ring 50 and the corresponding sealing surface 13 can be conically formed on the other component.

[0081] Correspondingly conical sealing surfaces 506 and 13 can also be provided, evidently, in the other embodiments, as well as in embodiment variants not represented. For example, the chamfer of the protrusion 101 in Figures 6 and 7 can serve as a contact surface for a corresponding inclined sealing surface, additionally provided on the ring side.

[0082] The 50 sealing ring can be made entirely of plastic. In this case, it is possible to avoid the use of sensitive sealing lips. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 28 / 57 24 / 30 times.

[0083] The sealing ring 50 explained in this document, from Figures 6 to 10, is additionally an assembly aid for positioning the components to be joined 10, 40, avoiding a tooth-to-tooth position. The joining to achieve the pre-assembly position can occur in a first stage or work cycle. In a seat or subsequent fixing of the clamping device 60 in a second stage or work cycle, no additional retaining device is required for the respective second component in the embodiment variants of this document. The axial force applied in the fixing is, in this case, on the order of magnitude of approx. 80kN and higher.

[0084] In one embodiment, it may be provided to design the retaining force of the sealing ring 50 as an assembly aid in such a way that an axial displacement to a final position occurs under the use of the clamping force of the clamping device 60.

[0085] As mentioned above, the previously explained axially pre-tensioned flat toothed assembly with notches can be used to connect the constant velocity joint 40 to the wheel hub 10 along with the wheel bearing 20, as exemplified in an exploded view in Figure 11. In this way, the first component, the constant velocity joint 40, and the second component, the wheel hub 10, are fixed to the wheel bearing 20, wherein the sealing ring 50 is fixed to the first component and to the second component by the locking tabs 502 or in the slot area 505. However, it is also possible to install the sealing ring 50 in reverse, that is, to fix it to the second component or to the wheel hub 10 with the wheel bearing 20 and couple the area with the locking tabs 502 or the slots 505 to the first component or the CV joint 40. Respecti Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 29 / 57 25 / 30 respectively, recesses and corresponding protrusions must then be provided, in an analogous manner, in the first component or in the constant velocity joint 40.

[0086] The clamping device 60 can be formed, as shown in Figure 11, by a clamping pin, which is driven concentrically through the first flat tooth 41 on the constant velocity joint 40 and through the second flat tooth 11 on the wheel hub 10, to axially fix the relevant components.

[0087] In addition, the head 61 of the clamping pin 60 can rest on the wheel hub 10, while a threaded section 62 of the clamping pin 60 is screwed into a threaded opening 43 in the constant velocity joint 40, preferably a cover of the constant velocity joint.

[0088] The sealing ring 50, provided as an assembly aid, sealing and pre-sealing means for the wheel bearing, is fixed to a section of the outer circumference of the constant velocity joint 40. This sealing ring 50, as can be seen in Figures 6 to 8, is coupled with corresponding counter-position structures in the wheel hub 10 and / or in the wheel bearing 20, in this document, particularly, in an inner ring of the bearing 29.

[0089] Figure 6 shows, by way of example, a variant in which the aforementioned protrusion 101 and recess 102 are formed in the inner ring of bearing 29 of wheel bearing 20. Particularly here, the sealing ring 50 can be locked with the inner ring of bearing 29 and seal against it.

[0090] In Figure 6, a corresponding sealing surface of the sealing ring 50 rests on a corresponding wall section of the inner ring of the bearing 29. In particular, the sealing surface, during assembly, can be pressed against the corresponding wall section of the inner ring of the bearing 29 to enhance the sealing effect. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 30 / 57 26 / 30

[0091] In a variation thereof, as shown exemplarily in Figure 7, the sealing ring 50, in the tensioned state of the clamping pin 60, can be axially pressed against a section of the wheel bearing seal 25 of the wheel bearing 20 and seal against it. The section of the wheel bearing seal 25, against which the sealing ring 50 rests, is disposed, in this case, in the inner ring of the wheel bearing 29 of the wheel bearing 20, optionally also fixed to the wheel hub 10, to prevent, during operation, a relative movement between the section of the wheel bearing seal 25 and the sealing ring 50.

[0092] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, it is possible, independently of the existence of an inner ring of the wheel bearing 29, to form counter-position structures for coupling the sealing ring 50 directly to the wheel hub 10. In the embodiment variant according to Figure 6, a protrusion 101, a recess 102 and a sealing surface 13 are correspondingly molded directly onto the second component, which forms the wheel hub 10.

[0093] Finally, a possible process for joining a wheel bearing assembly of the type described above is described.

[0094] The sealing ring 50 can be initially attached to the first component or to the constant velocity joint 40 during assembly. The first component 10 or the constant velocity joint 40 is therefore already supplied for the joining process with the sealing ring 50.

[0095] In addition, wheel bearing 20 is mounted on wheel hub 10 and wheel bearing 20 is re-attached to wheel support 30.

[0096] In another step of the joining process, the constant velocity joint 40 and the wheel hub 10 are mounted non-fixed to each other with the wheel bearing 20 under the use of the sealing ring 50. In this Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 31 / 57 In the 27 / 30 case, the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 reach a semi-coupling such that their teeth already overlap; however, a backlash-free position has not yet been achieved. In this pre-assembly position, the wheel hub 10 is fixed against the constant velocity joint 40, such that the two components can no longer be easily separated from each other, but at the same time, it is impossible for their flat teeth 11 and 41 to be in a tooth-to-tooth position. This step of the process is easy to handle.

[0097] In the next step, the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 are fixed against each other using the clamping pin 60. Since the wheel hub 10 has already been pre-fixed with the constant velocity joint 40, no additional retaining device is needed for the seating and screwing of the clamping pin 60m. Through screwing, the first flat tooth 11 and the second flat tooth 41 come into contact with each other without play. The appropriate clamping force is selected according to the torques to be transmitted. This step of the process is also easy to handle. Upon reaching the mounting position, the sealing ring 50 seals the coupling of the first flat tooth 11 with the second flat tooth 41 radially outwards, thus transforming it from a mounting aid into a sealing device.At the same time, the sealing ring 50 comes into contact with the wheel support 30 to provide pre-sealing for the wheel bearing 20.

[0098] Optionally, the encapsulation of the constant velocity joint described in connection with Figures 3 and 4 may also occur, and directed water drainage may be provided, corresponding to Figure 5.

[0099] The flat toothed assembly with axially prestressed notches can be disassembled, in particular, it can be dismantled Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 32 / 57 28 / 30 days without suffering damage. This is an advantage in the case of customer service.

[00100] For this purpose, the locking mechanism 501 can be formed, for example, in such a way that a release of the locking tabs 502 is possible by a high axial force or bending moment. For this purpose, suitably adapted chamfers or contact chamfers can be provided.

[00101] Similarly, when using the 505 slots for fastening, the clamping force can be adjusted so that release is possible at the same time as the clamping force is overcome.

[00102] A disassembly method, for example, in the case of customer service, can be carried out simply, as follows. The clamping device 60 is initially loosened slightly, preferably in such a way that a partial engagement of the flat teeth 11 and 41 is maintained. A clamping pin can be loosened, for example, by approx. 3 to 9 mm (corresponding to 2 to 6 rotations with a thread pitch of 1.5 mm). With a soft-faced (rubber) hammer, the head 61 of the clamping pin is struck until the sealing ring 50 comes loose in the area of ​​the locking mechanism 501 or the slot 505. It is possible to prevent the constant velocity joint 40 from falling off by partially loosening the clamping pin. After loosening the sealing ring 40, the clamping device 60, respectively, the clamping pin, can be completely unscrewed.

[00103] The invention has been explained above based on examples of embodiments and other variations, particularly individual technical features, which have been explained above in the context of other individual features, can be realized independently of these or in combination with other individual features, even if this is not explicitly described, provided it is technically feasible. The invention, therefore, is not limited ex Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 33 / 57 29 / 30 strictly adheres to the examples of embodiments and modifications described, but includes all embodiments defined by the patent claims. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS wheel hub first flat tooth front wall sealing surface wheel bearing outer ring of wheel bearing bearing bearing seal wheel bearing seal wheel bearing seal support and fixing structure inner ring of bearing 201 highlight 202 recess wheel support protrusion annular wall axial inner edge of the protrusion annular groove of the protrusion inner edge of the annular groove constant velocity joint second flat toothing wall protrusion threaded opening sealing ring first sleeve-shaped sealing section Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 34 / 57 30 / 30 front side shaft front side rib outer edge level second sealing section sleeve-shaped annular groove in the sealing ring third sealing section sleeve-shaped clamping device threaded head / threaded section constant velocity joint sealing element folding bellows metal cover recessed protrusion locking mechanism locking tabs inner circumference surface outer circumference surface groove sealing surface section tooth height axial clearance Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 35 / 57

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. wheel bearing assembly, comprising: a wheel hub (10); a wheel bearing (20), which is disposed in the wheel hub (10), a wheel support (30) in which the wheel bearing (20) is fixed with an outer wheel bearing ring (21), a constant velocity joint (40), which is axially pre-tensioned with the wheel hub (10) by a flat toothed assembly with notches, and a sealing ring (50), which radially and externally surrounds and seals the flat toothed assembly with notches, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) is pre-mounted in the constant velocity joint (40) and, in the assembled state of the wheel bearing assembly, is in coupling outside the force flow of the wheel bearing (20) with the wheel hub (10), wherein the sealing ring (50) provides, at the same time, in interaction with the wheel support (30), a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing (20).

2. Wheel bearing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) has a first sleeve-shaped sealing section (51) for radial sealing of the flat toothed assembly with notches and a second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) for providing pre-sealing, wherein the second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) is joined to the first sealing section (51) by a radial rib (54).

3. Wheel bearing assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the radial rib (54) connects to an axial terminal section of the first (51) sealing section in Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 36 / 57 2 / 5 sleeve form.

4. Wheel bearing assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) and the rib (54) together with a protrusion located (31) on the wheel support (30) form a sealing labyrinth, the path of which, from the outside to the inside of the pre-seal, in a plane of the longitudinal section, includes at least two changes of direction.

5. Wheel bearing assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first sleeve-shaped sealing section (51), the second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) and the rib (54), in a plane of the longitudinal section, form a C-shaped longitudinal section profile, such that an annular groove (58) is formed, in which a corresponding longitudinal section profile engages with the wheel support (30), wherein, between the first sleeve-shaped sealing section (51), the second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) and the rib (54), on the one hand, and the corresponding longitudinal section profile in the wheel support (30), on the other hand, a labyrinth-like sealing gap is formed.

6. Wheel bearing assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that the profile of the corresponding longitudinal section in the wheel support (30) has at least one annular groove (34).

7. Wheel bearing assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) has a front side (52) which, in the assembled state of the wheel bearing assembly, is pressed against an opposite front wall (12) of the wheel hub (10).

8. wheel bearing assembly, comprising: Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 37 / 57 3 / 5 a wheel hub (10); a wheel bearing (20), which is disposed in the wheel hub (10), a wheel support (30) in which the wheel bearing (20) is fixed with an outer wheel bearing ring (21), a constant velocity joint (40), which is axially pre-tensioned with the wheel hub (20) by a flat toothed assembly with notches, and a sealing ring (50), which radially and externally surrounds and seals the flat toothed assembly with notches, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) has a first sealing section in the form of a sleeve (51) for radial sealing of the flat toothed assembly with notches and a second sealing section in the form of a sleeve (57) for providing a contact-free pre-seal for the wheel bearing (20), wherein,The second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) is joined to the first sealing section (51) by a radial rib (54), and the wheel support (30) has an annular groove (34), wherein, between the first sleeve-shaped sealing section (31), the second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57) and the rib (54) on one side, and the annular groove (34) in the wheel support (30) on the other side, a labyrinth-like sealing gap is formed.

9. Wheel bearing assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) has a third sealing section in the form of a sleeve (59) that projects axially from the second sealing section (57) in the direction of the constant velocity joint (40) and rests against a sealing element (70) of the constant velocity joint (40) providing the seal.

10. Wheel bearing assembly, according to which Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page 38 / 57 4 / 5, one of claims 1 to 8 is sought, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) has a third sealing section in the form of a sleeve (59), which projects axially from the second sealing section (57) in the direction of the constant velocity joint (40) and, with a sealing element (70) of the constant velocity joint (72), forms an annular gap (73), such that the water that enters is discharged under centrifugal force.

11. Wheel bearing assembly, according to claim 10, characterized in that the annular slot (73) has a slot width of 1 by 3 mm.

12. Wheel bearing assembly, according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the sealing element (70) of the constant velocity joint has a foldable bellows (71), a rollable bellows and / or a metal cap (72) 13. Wheel bearing assembly, according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the third sealing section (59) extends radially further outward than the furthest radially outward extension of an annular groove (34) for coupling with the second sleeve-shaped sealing section (57).

14. Wheel bearing assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the flat toothed assembly with notches has a first flat tooth (11) in the wheel hub (10) and a second flat tooth (41) in the constant velocity joint (40), which remain mutually toothed and coupled, as well as a clamping device (60), whereby, in the tensioned state thereof, the first flat tooth (11) and the second flat tooth (41) are axially compressed together, wherein, furthermore, the sealing ring (50), in the untensioned state of the clamping device (60), provides a mounting fixation. Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, page. 39 / 57 5 / 5 gem, whereby the first flat tooth (11) and the second flat tooth (41) are held in non-fixed coupling to each other, such that an axial clearance (x) is less than the height (h) of the teeth of the first flat tooth (11) and the second flat tooth (41).

15. Wheel bearing assembly, according to claim 14, characterized in that the sealing ring (50) is fixed to one of the constant velocity joints (40) and wheel hub (10) and is coupled with the other constant velocity joints (40) and wheel hub (10) by a locking mechanism (501). Petition 870250091762, dated 08 / 10 / 2025, pp. 40 / 57

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