Bearing assembly for a tufting machine cutting attachment

Abstract

A shaft assembly has a shaft and a journal bearing that is fixedly coupled to the shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing. A bearing race has an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore. The journal bearing is rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

Description

[0001] Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority and the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 022,803, filed on May 11, 2020, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Background Art

[0003] Tufting machines typically include a cutting attachment for cutting looped yarn to form cut tufts. The cutting attachment can include a tool bar support that supports a tool bar. The tool bar can hold a plurality of tools that move into contact with the yarn loops to cut the yarn loops as they are formed. Various aspects of exemplary tufting machines and cutting attachments are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,693,191, issued on September 15, 1987, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0004] Conventional cutting attachments for tufting machines have a shaft rotatably supported on roller bearings. However, due to the reciprocating oscillating motion of the shaft, the roller bearings experience wear and the cutting attachment quickly becomes loose, resulting in reduced accuracy and performance. In addition, the bearings are difficult to replace, requiring the operator to substantially disassemble the tufting machine to access the bearings. Technical Field

[0005] This application generally relates to devices and systems for facilitating pivotal movement, and more particularly, to devices and systems for facilitating pivotal movement of a cutting attachment of a tufting machine. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In various aspects, an axle assembly including an axle is described herein. A journal bearing can be fixedly coupled to the axle such that rotation of the axle causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing. A bearing race can have an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore. The journal bearing can be rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

[0007] A tufting device can include a cutting assembly that includes at least one axle. A frame can support and receive each of the at least one axle passing therethrough. The cutting assembly can further include at least one bearing assembly, each bearing assembly disposed between the frame and a corresponding axle of the at least one axle. Each corresponding bearing assembly can include a journal bearing fixedly coupled to the corresponding axle such that rotation of the axle causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing. A bearing race can have an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore. The journal bearing can be rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

[0008] A bearing assembly can include a journal bearing configured to be fixedly coupled to a shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing and a bearing race, the bearing race having an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and lubrication grooves extending radially outwardly from the cylindrical bore. The journal bearing can be rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

[0009] Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features of the preferred embodiments of the invention will become more apparent in the detailed description with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 An exploded view of a portion of a cutting attachment assembly according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown.

[0012] Figure 2 is an exploded view of an end portion of the cutting attachment assembly as Figure 1 shown therein.

[0013] Figure 3A is a side view of a portion of a split bearing. Figure 3B is Figure 3A an end view of a portion of the split bearing as Figure 3C shown therein. Figure 3A is a perspective view of a portion of the split bearing as

[0014] Figure 4A shown therein. Figure 4B is Figure 4A an end view of a notched bearing as disclosed herein. Figure 4C is Figure 4A a side view of the notched bearing as

[0015] Figure 5A shown therein. Figure 5B is Figure 5A an end view of a bearing race as disclosed herein. Figure 5C is Figure 5A a side view of the bearing race as

[0016] Figure 6AIs a perspective view of a first part of a split bearing race. Figure 6B Is a perspective view of a second part of the split bearing race.

[0017] Figure 7A Is a perspective view of a shaft as disclosed herein. Figure 7B Is as Figure 7A A side view of the shaft in

[0018] Figure 8A Is an end view of an end bearing. Figure 8B Is Figure 8B A side view of the end bearing of

[0019] Figure 9A Is a first end view of another bearing race as disclosed herein. Figure 9B Is Figure 9A A side view of the bearing race of Figure 9C Is Figure 9A A second end view of the bearing race of

[0020] Figure 10A Is a bottom view of a first part of a split bearing race housing as disclosed herein. Figure 10B Is Figure 10A An end view of the first part of the split bearing race of Figure 10C Is an end view of the second part of the split bearing race. Figure 10D Is Figure 10C A top view of the second part of the split bearing race of

[0021] Figure 11 Is a block diagram showing a lubrication assembly.

[0022] Figure 12 Is a schematic cross-section of a thrust bearing assembly.

[0023] Unless otherwise stated, the dimensions provided in the figures (which are provided in inches) should be understood to be optional dimensions and other dimensions are contemplated. Detailed Description

[0024] The disclosed systems and methods may be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description of specific embodiments and the examples contained therein, as well as the accompanying drawings and their prior and subsequent descriptions.

[0025] It should be understood that the terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0026] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a / an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a bearing" includes one or more such bearings, and so forth.

[0027] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event, circumstance, or material may or may not occur or exist, and the description includes instances where the event, circumstance, or material occurs or exists, as well as instances where it does not occur or exist.

[0028] Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value and / or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the range from one particular value and / or to another particular value is also specifically contemplated and considered to be disclosed. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by use of the antecedent "about", it is to be understood that the particular value forms another specifically contemplated embodiment, which is to be considered to be disclosed unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, each endpoint of a range is significant relative to the other endpoint and independent of the other endpoint. Finally, it should be understood that, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, all individual values and sub-ranges of values that are included within a clearly disclosed range are also specifically contemplated and are to be considered to be disclosed. The foregoing applies regardless of whether some or all of these embodiments are specifically disclosed in a particular instance.

[0029] Optionally, in some aspects, when values are approximated by use of the antecedents "about", "substantially", or "generally", it is contemplated that the values are within the range of at most 15%, at most 10%, at most 5%, or at most 1% (higher or lower) of the specifically recited value or that the property may be included within the scope of these aspects.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosed devices, systems, and methods pertain. Although any devices, systems, and methods similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the devices, systems, and methods of the present invention, particularly useful methods, devices, systems, and materials are as described.

[0031] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and are not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. In particular, in a method expressed as including one or more steps or operations, each step is specifically expected to include the listed content (unless the step contains restrictive terms such as "consisting of"), which means that each step is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps not listed in the step.

[0032] Disclosed herein is a bearing assembly that provides improved accuracy and performance for a tufting machine that includes a cutting attachment. In use, the bearing assembly can reduce or prevent the development of looseness in the cutting attachment, thereby maximizing bearing life and providing increased cutting speed and quality. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that wear of conventional roller bearings reduces the accuracy and precision of the tufting machine, requiring the machine to slow down or temporarily stop for rebuilding. Additionally, the structure of the disclosed bearing assembly can allow for the rebuilding or replacement of an existing bearing assembly of the cutting attachment without removing the shaft of the cutting attachment. This ability can reduce the cost and time associated with rebuilding the cutting attachment, while also reducing the frequency with which such cutting attachments must be replaced.

[0033] Reference Figure 1 , the tufting device 90 can include a cutting assembly 100 (e.g., a cutting attachment). The cutting assembly 100 can include a plurality of shafts 102 (e.g., a first shaft 102a, a second shaft 102b, and a third shaft 102c) that extend in a longitudinal dimension 104. In some aspects, the first shaft 102a can be a common pivot, the second shaft 102b can be a knife drive shaft (for driving a knife or a knife bar), and the third shaft 102c can be a looper drive shaft (for driving a looper device as known in the art). Each shaft 102 can be coupled to a corresponding journal bearing 108 (two are shown).

[0034] Reference Figure 1 and 3AUp to 3C, in some aspects, the journal bearing 108 can be fixedly coupled to the shaft 102 such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing 108. For example, the journal bearing 108 can have opposite first and second ends 110 and 112 that are spaced apart by a certain length. In some aspects, the journal bearing 108 can be a split bearing that is divided along its axis into a first part 114 and a second part 116 that define opposite sides of the bearing. Each of the first and second parts 114 can optionally be a hollow semi-cylinder having a semi-cylindrical inner surface. The first part 114 and the second part 116 can meet at an axially extending end face. Optionally, the first part 114 and the second part 116 can be the same. Each axially extending end face of each of the first part 114 and the second part 116 can define one or more laterally extending holes 118 that can receive corresponding ends of press-fit pins 120. Thus, the pins 120 can extend between and couple the first part 114 and the second part 116.

[0035] Alternatively, in additional aspects and as Figure 1 and 4A shown in 4C, the first collar can define at least one longitudinally extending notch 122 that extends from the first end 110 of the bearing and along a portion of the bearing length. At least one second longitudinally extending notch 124 can extend from the second end 112 of the bearing along a portion of the bearing length.

[0036] Although the cutting assembly 100 is shown as having a combination of split bearings and notched bearings, it is contemplated that some or all of the bearings 102 can be split or notched. It is contemplated that split bearings can enable easy bearing replacement since the bearings do not have to slide on the ends of the shaft. Further contemplated is that notched bearings can be less expensive and easier to manufacture and do not require assembly. Thus, in various optional aspects, notched bearings may be preferred in applications where bearings are rarely or never replaced, while split bearings can be used in applications where bearings are replaced frequently. Thus, although Figure 1 the embodiments herein use split bearings and notched bearings, it is contemplated that this type can be interchanged based on design preference or determination of high / low wear.

[0037] In optional aspects, the bearings described herein can include bronze and / or steel. Similarly, optionally, the bearing races and housings can include steel or bronze.

[0038] The first collar 126 (e.g., split collar) can be fastened downwardly against the outer surface of the journal bearing 108 at the first end 110, and the second collar 128 can be fastened downwardly against the outer surface of the journal bearing 108 at the second end 112. In this way, the first collar 126 and the second collar 128 can apply a compressive force to fixedly couple the shaft to the journal bearing. That is, the inner surface of the journal bearing can frictionally engage the outer surface of the first shaft 102. For example, it is contemplated that the journal bearing 108 having one or more notches 122, 124 at each end can have an inner diameter sufficient to slidably receive the shaft 102 passing therethrough, but when the outside of the journal bearing at the notch is compressed (e.g., from collars 126, 128), the notch can enable the end of the bearing to bend to frictionally engage the shaft, thereby inhibiting rotational movement between the bearing and the shaft.

[0039] Reference Figure 1 and 5A Referring to FIGS. 5A to 5C, the journal bearings 108 can be received within respective bearing races 134. Thus, each journal bearing 108 and bearing race 134 can cooperate to define a bearing assembly 101. The shaft assembly 103 can include at least one bearing assembly 101 and a shaft 102. Each bearing race 134 can define a bore (e.g., a cylindrical bore 136) configured to rotatably receive the outer surface of the corresponding journal bearing. The inner surface 137 of the bearing race can further define one or more lubrication grooves 138 extending radially outward from the bore. The lubrication grooves 138 can optionally extend around the entire circumference of the inner surface of the bearing race 134 and axially along at least a portion of the bearing race. Optionally, and as shown, the bearing race 134 can define two lubrication grooves 138 that intersect to provide fluid communication between the grooves and allow lubricant to be distributed along each groove. In some aspects, the lubricant can be provided to the lubrication grooves via a radial extension path extending from the outer surface of the bearing race to the lubrication grooves on its inner surface. In some optional aspects, the radial extension path can provide lubricant to the intersection point between the lubrication grooves.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 and 6AUp to 6B, one or more bearing races 134 can be split bearing races separated by a longitudinally extending plane 146 along the axis containing the bearing race 134, where a first part 140a and a second part 140b are located on opposite sides of the plane. The first part 140a of the bearing race 134 can meet the second part 140b on opposite transverse sides of the shaft and the bearing to jointly define a hole (e.g., cylindrical hole 136). The first part 140a and the second part 140b of the bearing race 134 define corresponding laterally extending holes 142 that can receive corresponding fasteners (e.g., screws). Optionally, one of the laterally extending holes 142a can define a through hole, and the other corresponding laterally extending hole 142b can define a thread. In some aspects, the bearing race can define a radially extending flange 144 at one end. The radially extending flange 144 can define a stop surface 145 that biases against the frame 130 to fix the axial position of the bearing race (relative to the frame 130) along the length of the shaft. In some aspects, at least a portion of the radially extending flange can define a planar surface 148 (e.g., a flat surface) that can accommodate or engage a part of the tufting machine frame. Optionally, the side of the flange opposite the planar surface can define a radially extending lubrication path 149. It is contemplated that the position of the planar surface opposite the lubrication fitting can provide an optimal location for maintenance and servicing. For example, the lubrication fitting can be located on the opposite side of the bearing race and thus spaced from the tufting machine frame. This can allow room for access to the lubrication fitting as well as the lubrication fitting itself. Optionally, in an exemplary aspect, it is contemplated that the planar surface on the radially extending flange of the bearing race need only be provided on the bearing race used with the loop drive shaft. Thus, in these aspects, it is contemplated that the bearing races used with other shafts (e.g., pivot or knife drive shafts) can be provided without such planar surfaces (e.g., flat surfaces).

[0041] The tufting device can include a frame 130 that supports a first shaft, a second shaft, and a third shaft. The frame 130 can define a receiving space (optionally, a cylindrical hole 132) that receives the corresponding bearing race 134.

[0042] Reference Figure 2 , the end 150 of at least one (or optionally, all) of the shafts (e.g., the first shaft 102, the second shaft 104, and the third shaft 106) can define at least one planar surface 152 that is planar in the longitudinal dimension. For example, at least one planar surface 152 can include two pairs of opposing planar surfaces 152 such that the end 150 has a generally square end with a rounded edge. Inside the planar surface (i.e., toward the middle of the shaft), the shaft can define a plurality of external threads 156.

[0043] Reference Figure 2 and8A Through 8B, the corresponding end bearings 158 can define an inner bore 159 having a cross-section that matches (i.e., is complementary to) the cross-section of the outer surface of the end of the shaft. That is, each end bearing 158 can define a corresponding planar surface 160 (or planar surfaces 160) to engage the corresponding end of the shaft. For example, as shown, the end bearing can define a generally square hole with a rounded edge. The inner bore 159 of the end bearing 158 can optionally be sized to press-fit onto the end of the shaft 102.

[0044] Reference Figure 2 and 9A Through 9C, the end bearings 158 can be received within corresponding bearing races 162. Each bearing race 162 can optionally include a radially extending flange 164. The inner surface 165 of each bearing race 162 can further define a lubrication groove 166 that can provide a path through which lubricant can travel.

[0045] The lubrication groove 166 can extend radially outward from the hole (optionally, a cylindrical hole) that receives the end bearing 158. The lubrication groove 166 can optionally extend around the entire circumference of the inner surface of the bearing race 162 and axially along at least a portion of the bearing race. Optionally, as shown, each bearing race 162 can define two lubrication grooves 166 that intersect to provide fluid communication between the grooves and allow the lubricant to be distributed along each groove. In some aspects, the lubricant can be provided to the lubrication groove via a radially extending path that extends from the outer surface of the bearing race to the lubrication groove on its inner surface. In some optional aspects, the radially extending path can provide lubricant to the intersection point between the lubrication grooves. Optionally, in these aspects, a lubrication fitting can be aligned and in fluid communication with the intersection point of the radially extending path and the lubrication groove 166.

[0046] Reference Figure 2 and 10A Through 10D, each bearing race can be received within a corresponding bearing race housing 180. Each bearing race housing can optionally be a split bearing housing that includes a first portion 182a and a second portion 182b. In some aspects, the bearing race housing 180 can define a hole 186 for delivering lubricant to the outer surface of the bearing race at the radially extending path.

[0047] The threaded locking collar 170 can be screwed onto each end of the shaft 102. Then, the first spacer 172 can be received onto the end of the shaft, followed in sequence by the thrust bearing 174 and the second spacer 176. Then, the end bearing 158 can be inserted onto the end of the shaft. The end bearing 148 can be received within the corresponding bearing race 162.

[0048] At each end of the shaft, the threaded locking collar 170 can be rotated to move the locking collar toward the ends of their respective shafts. In doing so, the threaded collar is biased against the first spacer 172, which in turn is biased against the thrust bearing 174, which is biased against the second spacer 176, which is biased against the bearing housing shell 180. The bearing housing shell 180 can define a receptacle 184 (optionally a cylindrical receptacle) that can receive at least a portion of the thrust bearing 174. Thus, the shaft can be biased against the opposing thrust bearings 174, which engage the respective bearing housing shells 180. In this way, the position of the shaft can be fixed in the longitudinal dimension, thereby avoiding the oscillatory motion that can cause wear and looseness in conventional cutting attachments. The bearing housing shell 180 can further define a bore 188 for delivering lubricant to the thrust bearing 174.

[0049] For example, referring to Figure 1 , the collars 126 and 128 can be loosened and removed from the bearing 108. In doing so, the bearing race 134 can be slid out of the aperture 132 in the frame 130. Additionally, the bearing 108 can be slid along the length of the shaft 102 and removed from one end of the shaft. A replacement bearing can be slid onto the end of the shaft and along the shaft, and the same or a replacement bearing housing 104 can be slid along the shaft and into the aperture 132 that has the bearing therein. The collars 126, 128 can be tightened down against the bearing 108, with the flange of the bearing race against the housing, to fix the bearing and bearing race in the axial position. In another aspect, it is contemplated that a split design of the collar, journal bearing, and bearing race can allow replacement of the components without the need to remove the shaft of the cutting assembly (to slide the components out of the end of the shaft, as described above). More specifically, because such bearing components can be separated (apart), the bearing components can be easily removed from and / or positioned on the shaft without the need to remove the shaft from the cutting assembly and / or advance the bearing components along most of the length of the shaft starting from the longitudinal end of the shaft. This ability makes modification and / or replacement of the bearing components more efficient and less costly.

[0050] When combined with the reduced wear and improved shaft stability provided by the disclosed bearing structure, the disclosed bearing assembly can provide significantly improved life and performance.

[0051] Referring to Figure 11 , one or more lubrication assemblies 200 can communicate with each bearing race to supply lubricant thereto. Optionally, the lubrication assembly 200 can include a lubricant supply 202, a pump 204, and a conduit 206 for delivering the lubricant to the bearing race 134 of the tufting assembly 90.

[0052] Although collar 126 and collar 128 are shown as split collars, in additional alternative aspects, the collar can be a clamping collar or another suitable device for applying a compressive force to journal bearing 108. In various additional alternative aspects, instead of or in addition to a collar, shaft 102 can be fixedly coupled to journal bearing 108 via a key, spline, or other interlocking feature.

[0053] Although various references to cylindrical bores and cylindrical surfaces are described herein, it is contemplated that additional embodiments use other rotationally complementary surfaces, such as frustoconical surfaces or interlocking axially spaced radial ribs. For example, bearing 108 can define a frustoconical outer surface, and bearing race 134 can define a frustoconical inner surface configured to receive the frustoconical outer surface of journal bearing 108. The frustoconical surfaces can optionally mate to receive radial and axial forces. Thus, in some alternative aspects, the frustoconical surfaces can enable the journal bearing to function as a thrust bearing.

[0054] In various aspects, with reference to Figure 12 , journal bearing 108 can be a thrust bearing fixedly coupled to the shaft. That is, journal bearing 108 can be coupled to shaft 102, and an axial end face 190 of the journal bearing can be axially offset against a relative surface 192 (e.g., a support surface). Optionally, split collar 128 can be offset against journal bearing 108 to press the journal bearing against the shaft, thereby fixedly coupling the journal bearing to the shaft.

[0055] Although described herein as being used with a tufting machine, it is contemplated that the disclosed bearing assembly (including the journal bearing and bearing race) can be used in other applications where it would be beneficial to provide stability to a shaft within a machine or device that is exposed to significant reciprocating oscillatory motion during use. Such applications can include, but are not limited to, printers, production lines, or automotive applications.

[0056] Exemplary Aspects

[0057] In view of the described products, systems, and methods and their variations, certain more specifically described aspects of the present invention will be described below. However, these specifically enumerated aspects should not be construed as having any limiting effect on any different claims that incorporate the different or more general teachings described herein, or that the "specific" aspects are limited in some way other than the inherent meaning of the language literally used therein.

[0058] Aspect 1: A shaft assembly, comprising: a shaft; a journal bearing fixedly coupled to the shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing; and a bearing race having an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore, wherein the journal bearing is rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

[0059] Aspect 2: The shaft assembly according to Aspect 1, wherein the journal bearing has opposite first and second ends, and the shaft assembly further includes a first split collar located on the first end of the journal bearing and a second split collar located on the second end of the journal bearing, wherein each of the first split collar and the second split collar exerts a compressive force between the journal bearing and the shaft to fixedly couple the journal bearing to the shaft.

[0060] Aspect 3: The shaft assembly according to Aspect 1 or Aspect 2, wherein the journal bearing has a certain length, and wherein the journal bearing defines at least one longitudinally extending notch on the first end of the journal bearing that extends along a portion of the length of the bearing, and at least one longitudinally extending notch on the second end of the journal bearing that extends along a portion of the length of the bearing.

[0061] Aspect 4: The shaft assembly according to Aspect 1 or Aspect 2, wherein the journal bearing is a split bearing including a first part and a second part.

[0062] Aspect 5: The shaft assembly according to Aspect 4, wherein the journal bearing further includes at least one fastener extending between the first part and the second part.

[0063] Aspect 6: The shaft assembly according to any one of Aspects 2 to 5, further including a bearing race housing defining a receiving space configured to receive at least a portion of the bearing race, wherein the bearing race is disposed within the receiving space, wherein the bearing race defines a flange at a first longitudinal end, and wherein the flange of the bearing race is disposed against the bearing race housing.

[0064] Aspect 7: The shaft assembly according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the bearing race includes a first part and a second part, and wherein the first part of the bearing race meets the second part on opposite lateral sides of the shaft.

[0065] Aspect 8: The shaft assembly according to Aspect 8, wherein the bearing race is a split bearing race that mates to define the cylindrical bore of the bearing race when the first part and the second part are joined together on opposite lateral sides of the shaft.

[0066] Aspect 9: The shaft assembly according to any one of the preceding aspects, further including a lubrication assembly in communication with the lubrication groove of the bearing race, wherein the lubrication assembly is configured to deliver a lubricant to the lubrication groove.

[0067] Aspect 10: The shaft assembly according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the shaft has a first end and a second end, and at least one planar surface is defined on each of the first end and the second end, wherein the at least one planar surface on each of the first end and the second end of the shaft is planar in the longitudinal dimension, and the shaft assembly further comprises: a first end bearing and a second end bearing, each end bearing defining an inner surface having a bore that defines a corresponding at least one planar surface for engaging the respective ends of the first end and the second end of the shaft; and a first end bearing race and a second end bearing race, each end bearing race receiving the respective end bearing of the first end bearing and the second end bearing.

[0068] Aspect 11: The shaft assembly according to aspect 10, wherein the at least one planar surface on each of the first end and the second end of the shaft comprises four circumferentially equally spaced planar surfaces.

[0069] Aspect 12: The shaft assembly according to aspect 10 or aspect 11, wherein the shaft assembly has a defined external thread (male thread) on each of the first end and the second end, and the shaft assembly further comprises: respective threaded locking collars coupled to the threads on each of the first end and the second end; respective thrust bearings disposed between the respective locking collars and the respective end bearing races of the first end bearing race and the second end bearing race.

[0070] Aspect 13: A tufting device comprising: a cutting assembly including at least one shaft; a frame that supports and receives each of the at least one shaft passing therethrough; and at least one bearing assembly, each bearing assembly disposed between the frame and the respective shaft of the at least one shaft, wherein each respective bearing assembly comprises: a journal bearing fixedly coupled to the respective shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing; and a bearing race having an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore, wherein the journal bearing is rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

[0071] Aspect 14: The tufting device according to aspect 13, wherein the at least one shaft includes a first shaft, a second shaft, and a third shaft, and wherein the at least one bearing assembly includes a first bearing assembly, a second bearing assembly, and a third bearing assembly.

[0072] Aspect 15: The tufting device according to aspect 14, wherein the first shaft is a common pivot, the second shaft is a knife drive shaft, and the third shaft is a loop drive shaft.

[0073] Aspect 16: The tufting device according to any one of aspects 13 to 15, wherein the journal bearing of at least one of the at least one bearing assemblies has opposite first and second ends, and the shaft assembly further includes a first split collar positioned on the first end of the journal bearing and a second split collar positioned on the second end of the journal bearing, wherein each of the first split collar and the second split collar exerts a compressive force between the journal bearing and the shaft to fixedly couple the journal bearing to the shaft.

[0074] Aspect 17: The tufting device according to any one of aspects 13 to 16, wherein the journal bearing of at least one of the at least one bearing assemblies has a certain length, and wherein the journal bearing defines at least one longitudinally extending notch extending along a portion of the length of the bearing on the first end of the journal bearing, and at least one longitudinally extending notch extending along a portion of the length of the bearing on the second end of the journal bearing.

[0075] Aspect 18: The tufting device according to any one of aspects 13 to 17, wherein the journal bearing of at least one of the at least one bearing assemblies is a split bearing including a first part and a second part.

[0076] Aspect 19: The tufting device according to aspect 18, wherein the journal bearing as a split bearing further includes at least one fastener extending between the first part and the second part.

[0077] Aspect 20: The tufting device according to any one of aspects 13 to 19, wherein the bearing housing of at least one bearing assembly includes a first part and a second part, and wherein the first part of the bearing housing meets the second part of the bearing housing on opposite lateral sides of the shaft.

[0078] Aspect 21: The tufting device according to aspect 20, wherein the bearing housing including the first part and the second part is a split bearing housing, which when joined together on opposite lateral sides of the shaft cooperates to define a cylindrical bore of the bearing housing.

[0079] Aspect 22: The tufting device according to any one of aspects 13 to 21, further including a lubrication assembly in communication with a lubrication groove of the bearing housing of at least one bearing assembly, wherein the lubrication assembly is configured to deliver lubricant to the lubrication groove.

[0080] Aspect 23: A bearing assembly, comprising: a journal bearing configured to be fixedly coupled to a shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing; and a bearing housing having an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore, wherein the journal bearing is rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing housing.

[0081] Although, for the purposes of a clear understanding, the foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example, certain changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims. For example, it is contemplated that the embodiments described herein may be advantageous in applications other than tufting machines or textile manufacturing. For example, the embodiments may be used in any suitable application of pivotal or rotational movement of one body relative to another body, particularly in applications of oscillatory movement and / or in applications where it is desired to remove and replace bearings without removing the shaft or otherwise significantly disassembling the device.

Claims

1. A shaft assembly, the shaft assembly comprising: A shaft having a first end and a second end, wherein the shaft defines at least one planar surface at each of the first end and the second end, and wherein the at least one planar surface at each of the first end and the second end of the shaft is planar in a longitudinal dimension; A journal bearing fixedly coupled to the shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes corresponding rotation of the journal bearing; A bearing race having an inner surface defining a cylindrical bore and a lubrication groove extending radially outward from the cylindrical bore, wherein the journal bearing is rotatably disposed within the cylindrical bore of the bearing race; A first end bearing and a second end bearing, each end bearing defining an inner surface having an inner bore defining a corresponding at least one planar surface to engage the respective ends of the first end and the second end of the shaft; and A first end bearing race and a second end bearing race, each end bearing race receiving the respective end bearing of the first end bearing and the second end bearing.

2. The shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein the journal bearing has opposite first and second ends, and wherein the shaft assembly further comprises: A first split collar positioned on the first end of the journal bearing; And A second split collar positioned on the second end of the journal bearing, Wherein each of the first split collar and the second split collar applies a compressive force between the journal bearing and the shaft to fixedly couple the journal bearing to the shaft.

3. The shaft assembly according to claim 2, wherein the journal bearing has a length, and wherein the journal bearing defines at least one longitudinally extending notch extending along a portion of the length of the bearing at the first end of the journal bearing and at least one longitudinally extending notch extending along a portion of the length of the bearing at the second end of the journal bearing.

4. The shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein the journal bearing is a split bearing including a first part and a second part.

5. The shaft assembly according to claim 4, wherein the journal bearing further comprises at least one fastener extending between the first part and the second part.

6. The shaft assembly according to claim 2, further comprising a bearing race housing defining a receiving space configured to receive at least a portion of the bearing race, wherein the bearing race is disposed within the receiving space, wherein the bearing race defines a flange at a first longitudinal end, and wherein the flange of the bearing race is disposed against the bearing race housing.

7. The shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein the bearing race includes a first part and a second part, and wherein the first part of the bearing race meets the second part of the bearing race on opposite lateral sides of the shaft.

8. The shaft assembly according to claim 7, wherein the bearing race is a split bearing race, and wherein when the first part and the second part are joined together on opposite lateral sides of the shaft, the first part and the second part cooperate to define the cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

9. The shaft assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a lubrication assembly in communication with the lubrication groove of the bearing race, wherein the lubrication assembly is configured to deliver lubricant to the lubrication groove.

10. The shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the at least one planar surface on the first end and the second end of the shaft comprises four circumferentially equally spaced planar surfaces.

11. The shaft assembly according to claim 1, wherein the shaft assembly defines external threads on each of the first end and the second end, and wherein the shaft assembly further comprises: respective threaded locking collars coupled to the threads on each of the first end and the second end; respective thrust bearings disposed between the respective locking collars and the respective end bearing races of the first end bearing race and the second end bearing race.

12. A tufting device, the tufting device comprising: at least one shaft assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, each shaft assembly of the at least one shaft assembly comprising a respective shaft, a respective journal bearing, and a respective bearing race; and a frame that supports and receives each shaft of the at least one shaft assembly therethrough.

13. The tufting device according to claim 12, wherein the at least one shaft assembly comprises a first shaft assembly, a second shaft assembly, and a third shaft assembly, the first shaft assembly, the second shaft assembly, and the third shaft assembly comprising respective first, second, and third shafts.

14. The tufting device according to claim 13, wherein the at least one shaft assembly defines at least a portion of a cutting assembly, wherein the first shaft is a common pivot, the second shaft is a knife drive shaft, and the third shaft is a loop drive shaft.

15. The tufting device according to claim 12, further comprising a lubrication assembly in communication with the lubrication groove of the bearing race of at least one shaft assembly of the at least one shaft assembly, wherein the lubrication assembly is configured to deliver lubricant to the lubrication groove.

16. The tufting device according to claim 12, further comprising: a first split collar positioned on a first end of the journal bearing; and a second split collar positioned on a second end of the journal bearing, wherein each of the first split collar and the second split collar exerts a compressive force between the journal bearing and the shaft to fixedly couple the journal bearing to the shaft.

17. The tufting device according to claim 16, wherein the journal bearing of at least one of the at least one bearing assemblies has a certain length, and wherein the journal bearing defines at least one longitudinally extending notch extending along a portion of the length of the bearing at a first end of the journal bearing, and at least one longitudinally extending notch extending along a portion of the length of the bearing at a second end of the journal bearing.

18. The tufting device according to claim 12, wherein the journal bearing of at least one of the at least one shaft assemblies is a split bearing comprising a first hollow semi-cylindrical portion and a second hollow semi-cylindrical portion.

19. The tufting device according to claim 18, wherein the journal bearing further comprises at least one fastener extending between the first hollow semi-cylindrical portion and the second hollow semi-cylindrical portion.

20. The tufting device according to claim 12, wherein the bearing race of at least one of the at least one shaft assemblies comprises a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion of the bearing race meets the second portion of the bearing race on opposite lateral sides of the shaft.

21. The tufting device according to claim 20, wherein the bearing race comprising a first portion and a second portion is a split bearing race, which when the first portion and the second portion are joined together on opposite lateral sides of the shaft cooperate to define a cylindrical bore of the bearing race.

22. The tufting device according to claim 12, further comprising a lubrication assembly in communication with a lubrication groove of the bearing race of at least one of the at least one shaft assemblies, wherein the lubrication assembly is configured to deliver lubricant to the lubrication groove.

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