Bearing cages, associated assemblies and associated installation and removal methods

Abstract

The present invention relates to a bearing retainer (25) of a bearing (20), comprising a first ring (21) having a first bearing race (211), a second ring (22) having a second bearing race (221), and rolling bodies (23) in an annular rolling roll (24) between the first and second bearing races (211, 221), so that the first and second rings (21, 22) can rotate relative to each other around a reference axis (X) of the bearing, the retainer (25) comprising a unit (26) for accommodating the rolling bodies (23), and characterized in that the retainer (25) comprises a coupling interface (27) for engaging with an operating member (40), so that when the operating member (40) is combined with the coupling interface (27), the bearing retainer (25) can be driven to rotate in a predetermined direction (D1) relative to the reference axis (X) by the operating member (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the technical field of rolling contact bearings.

[0002] The invention relates more particularly to an assembly having a bearing which rotatably guides a first ring, in particular integrated with a subassembly such as the blades of a propeller with variable pitch angle, relative to a second ring formed by another subassembly of the propeller type, integrated with its support. Background Art

[0003] Many propeller blades have variable pitch to optimize their operation. The blades are then extended by a pivot that rotates in the housing of the boss or more generally the supporting part of the propeller.

[0004] From document EP 0 324 617 a mounting device is known in which a blade of this type is fixed to a boss by one of its ends, called the blade root. The root of the blade can rotate in a chamber of the boss via a bearing, essentially along a reference axis. The reference axis of the root is essentially merged with the reference axis of the blade. The bearing is arranged between the root and the side wall of the chamber. The side wall, in stages, essentially rotates around the radial axis of the boss. After the blade is mounted, the reference axis is essentially merged with this radial axis. The chamber is open on the inside on the side of the propeller center and on the outside on the side of the blade.

[0005] In document EP 0 324 617, the bearing comprises at least a first outer roller bearing and a second inner oblique contact ball bearing, the outer roller bearing being located near the outer side and the inner ball bearing being located near the inner side.

[0006] When the propeller rotates, the blades are subject to two effects: centrifugal or axial forces, the effects of rotation speed and mass, the interaction of the blades with the stirring air, and the bending moment at the root of the blades caused by the radial forces generated by the vibrations of the system on the blades. These effects can be compensated by the mounting device taught in document EP 0 324 617: the axial forces are taken up by the internal ball bearings, and the bending moments are taken up by the assembly of the two bearings.

[0007] Preloaded bearings in propeller blade root assemblies are also known from document EP 0 843 635, so that the bearing assembly remains loaded in all aerodynamic conditions. Blade bearings make it possible to change the pitch of the blades in flight, that is to say by changing their direction or angle of incidence. However, they also make it possible to lock the blades on the boss of the propeller. The blade root may have a widened end, so that the blade root cannot be pulled out of the boss of the propeller as long as the bearing is in place.

[0008] In this construction, such a bearing cannot be assembled. The root of the blade is first placed in the motor housing of the propeller boss, and then the balls are inserted one by one. As a result, the balls keep the blade in working condition. In addition, such a bearing is only able to position the blade in operation according to the pitch angle of the blade, so that the angular range of displacement of the blade about its reference radial axis relative to the boss axis is generally low and its rotation speed is also relatively low. Another limitation of such a ball bearing is that it must be possible to remove the balls to install and remove the blade in order to ensure maintenance.

[0009] Due to this construction, this type of ball bearing has no cage. However, premature wear of the rolling elements has been observed, these considerable degradations being caused by impacts between the balls, since there is no means of separating them. Summary of the invention

[0010] The object of the present invention is to overcome all or part of the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to propose a bearing making it possible to avoid degradation of the balls due to high contact pressures and possible impacts between them, while the volume for accommodating the rolling elements is only slightly accessible for mounting or dismounting the rolling elements.

[0011] The invention also aims to make the maintenance operations of such bearings more limited, or even to improve them, without shortening the bearings or reducing their cost.

[0012] To this end, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a bearing retainer is proposed, which includes a first ring with a first bearing seat ring, a second ring with a second bearing seat ring, rolling bodies are located in an annular rolling volume between the first bearing seat ring and the second bearing seat ring, in a manner that allows the first and second rings to rotate relative to each other around a reference axis of the bearing, the retainer includes a unit for accommodating the rolling bodies, and the retainer is notable in that it includes an interface for coupling with a manipulation member, so that when the manipulation member engages with the coupling interface, the bearing retainer can be driven by the manipulation member to rotate in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis.

[0013] Thanks to this bearing cage, which in particular ensures the function of spacing and guiding the rolling elements during the rolling phase, it can be easily manipulated with the aid of a manipulation member and even if the bearing cage has to be manipulated in an environment that leaves little space for standard tools or operators to enable its assembly or handling during maintenance operations.

[0014] According to a specific technical configuration, the interface for coupling with the operating member is configured to ensure a detachable coupling. Such a characteristic makes it easy for the bearing holder to be coupled and separated from the operating member as required. According to one embodiment, the interface for coupling with the operating member is configured to ensure coupling by means of an elastic attachment (also called a snap), thereby achieving cooperation by elastic deformation.

[0015] According to one embodiment, each unit for housing rolling elements is configured to cover the rolling elements to retain them axially in said unit and to ensure that the cage is kept in the desired rolling position during the operating phase. In this way, the bearing cage ensures the separation of the rolling elements and their circumferential drive service stations or phases, and furthermore, the rolling elements are radially and axially held in the rolling position by the inner and outer rings of the bearing. Preferably, the unit is configured to cover the rolling elements to avoid centrifugation of the bearing cage during operation.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the unit for accommodating the rolling bodies is dimensioned so that the rolling bodies can escape from said unit under the effect of their own weight, said unit not retaining at least the rolling bodies radially and towards the outside of the cage in the inclination of the reference axis. In this way, when the rolling bodies are not radially retained by the inner and outer rings, the force exerted by their own weight is sufficient to cause them to escape from their housing unit. This is particularly relevant for maintenance operations, during which, for example, the rolling bodies are placed facing in the direction of an access channel, the opening of which is on the space defined between the rings forming the annular body and which puts the annular rolling roll in communication with the external environment, the access channel having an inner portion that allows at least the rolling bodies to pass. In this way, the simple fact of displacing the rolling bodies facing this access channel makes it possible to remove said rolling bodies from the rolling space.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the bearing cage comprises an annular sleeve, which is notably configured to surround or enclose at least one axial portion of the first ring and from which a unit axially defined for receiving rolling elements extends separately, the bearing cage preferably also having an opening formed on the front face opposite to the annular sleeve. This allows material separation, ensuring no interference with surrounding parts and can represent an iso-functional gain in weight.

[0018] Advantageously, the socket has an axial end, axially opposite its front face, comprising a profile of revolution, continuous or discontinuous, configured to ensure the centering of the operating member. This profile of revolution may be cylindrical or flat-conical so as to have a surface of revolution that converges towards the diameter of the part receiving the operating member. In this way, the operating member is guided by the sleeve of the bearing holder during its axial displacement until it engages with the coupling interface of said bearing holder.

[0019] In the case where the rolling bodies are balls, for example, the contact surface of each cell is advantageously configured to be locally complementary to the contact surface of the rolling body it receives, which contact surface can, for example, extend onto the spherical housing portion. In this way, the bearing cage has a locally spherical shape at the level of each cell to ensure their guidance. It should be noted that due to the guiding function of the rolling bodies, the contact surface ensures the contact with the rolling bodies that is necessary for guiding the rolling bodies. However, in order not to hold the rolling bodies tightly in the cells, the predetermined cell gaps are configured not to block the rolling bodies.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the coupling interface comprises grooves distributed on its periphery and configured to receive dog clutch legs of the operating member.These grooves advantageously extend over a predetermined angular portion of the bearing cage and are evenly distributed around the bearing cage.

[0021] Preferably, in this case, the bearing holder, in particular the coupling interface, comprises guide walls configured to guide the displacement of each dog clutch leg of the operating member to its corresponding groove. This enables a continuous guidance to facilitate the coupling operation of the operating member with the bearing holder. In one embodiment, these guide walls are arranged radially with respect to the reference axis and extend to the outer periphery of the bearing holder, with each guide wall forming a spiral or a spiral portion around the reference axis.

[0022] According to a particular technical feature, the decoupling movement of the operating member from the bearing cage comprises a rotation relative to the reference axis in a direction opposite to the predetermined rotation direction of the bearing cage when driven in rotation by the engaged operating member.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the coupling interface of the bearing retainer comprises at least one of two coupling interfaces, one consisting of an elastic hook and the other consisting of at least one groove, the first of the two coupling interfaces being configured to engage with the second by an elastic attachment (or snap), preferably cooperating with the two coupling interfaces borne by the operating member. The coupling interfaces are preferably distributed around the periphery of the bearing retainer. Thus, in a given configuration, the coupling interface of the bearing retainer comprises an elastic hook configured to elastically engage in at least one groove of the operating member. In another relative configuration, the coupling interface of the bearing retainer comprises at least one groove configured to receive the elastic hook of the operating member. Alternatively, these configurations are combined such that both the bearing retainer and the operating member comprise elastic hooks, and at least one groove is configured to cooperate in pairs in a complementary manner.

[0024] According to one embodiment, said groove is adjoined on the side of the coupling elastic hook during radial coupling by a radial projection, the projection comprising a guide wall for guiding the elastic hook during its coupling trajectory, the guide wall preferably being configured to guide the manipulation member towards a central position relative to the cage. Preferably, the guide wall is configured to ensure elastic widening of the elastic hook over at least a portion of this trajectory.

[0025] According to a particular technical feature, the decoupled movement of the operating member from the bearing cage comprises or even comprises a translation relative to a reference axis, in the sense of moving the operating member relative to the bearing cage.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the front face of the cage comprises at least one chamfer, preferably located radially inwards, which is bordered by the front face and the inner surface of the cage. This makes it possible to ensure greater axial coverage of the rolling elements by the bearing cage while maintaining a safe distance from the bearing race, so that the rolling space for guiding the rolling elements can be occupied more effectively.

[0027] According to a second aspect, the invention also relates to a bearing comprising a first ring having a first bearing race, a second ring having a second bearing race, rolling bodies in an annular rolling roll between the first and second races, which allows the first and second rings to rotate about a reference axis of the bearing, the first ring being movable relative to the second ring, in particular in the axial direction, between a rolling position of the rolling bodies on the first and second bearing races and a maintenance station for eliminating the load supported by these rolling bodies, the bearing notably comprising a bearing retaining cage comprising all or part of the above-mentioned features.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first ring is axially movable relative to the second ring, such that the distance between the first bearing race and the second bearing race can be modified.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the rolling bodies are balls.

[0030] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to an assembly of a first mechanical subassembly with a second mechanical subassembly, the assembly comprising a bearing, the bearing comprising a first ring having a first bearing seat ring, a second ring having a second bearing seat ring, the first ring being integrated with the first subassembly, the second ring being integrated with the second subassembly, rolling bodies being located in an annular rolling roll between the first and second bearing seat rings so that the first and second rings can rotate relative to each other around a reference axis of the bearing, and a channel connecting the external environment with the annular rolling roll, the channel having an internal portion at least capable of allowing the rolling bodies to pass through, the first ring being movable relative to the second ring between a rolling position of the rolling bodies on the first and second bearing seat rings and a maintenance station for eliminating the load supported by these rolling bodies, the bearing comprising a retaining frame comprising a unit for accommodating the rolling bodies, the assembly being notable in that the retaining frame comprises an interface for coupling to an operating member so that when the operating member engages with the coupling interface, the bearing retaining frame can be driven by the operating member to rotate in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the first subassembly can be axially moved relative to the second subassembly so that the distance between the first and second bearing races can be modified. In particular, the first subassembly can be moved relative to the second subassembly between a rolling position and a maintenance position, and the relative movement of the first and second subassemblies drives the movement of the first and second rings, respectively.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the maneuvering member is configured to facilitate axial locking of the first subassembly relative to the second subassembly, in particular the first ring relative to the second ring, in a rolling position.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the bearing cage and the manipulating member comprise a coupling mechanism that is removable between the coupled positions of the bearing cage and the manipulating member, wherein the coupling means of the manipulating member engage with the coupling interface of the cage, so that the manipulating member drives the displacement of the bearing cage in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis in the maintenance station and the displacement of the manipulating member enables the axial locking of the first ring in the rolling position relative to the second ring in the uncoupled position. The driving of the cage by the displacement of the moving member has at least two functions, one of which is notable in being able to guide the rolling bodies successively towards the channel from which they may be removed, this being the maintenance station where the rolling bodies must be taken out of the rolling space, and another in being able to bring each unit of the cage successively towards the access channel during the maintenance phase or the original installation of the device in order to insert the rolling bodies into the rolling space still in the maintenance station. In summary, the rotational displacement of the manipulating member in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis continuously brings the units towards the access channel from which the rolling bodies can be inserted or removed.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the bearing cage is rotated about the axis of the first subassembly so as to move the rolling elements in the direction of access to the channel, the movement being in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the detachable coupling mechanism of the bearing cage with the operating member comprises a dog-shaped clutch leg forming a coupling means, which is configured to engage with complementary grooves forming a coupling interface. These grooves advantageously extend over a predetermined angular portion of the bearing cage and are evenly distributed around the bearing cage. Their angular extent must be sufficient to ensure that the cage is firmly held in the maintenance station without hindering subsequent decoupling. Thus, the coupling means of the operating member form a complementary interface to the coupling interface of the bearing cage, which complementary interface makes it possible to form a coupling mechanism together so as to ensure the coupling of the elements.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the coupling interface comprises guide walls for guiding the displacement of each dog clutch leg to its corresponding groove. This enables continuous guidance to facilitate the coupling operation of the operating member with the bearing holder. In one embodiment, these guide walls are arranged radially with respect to the reference axis and extend to the periphery of the bearing holder, while each guide wall forms a spiral or a spiral portion around the reference axis.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the detachable coupling mechanism of the bearing cage with the manipulating member comprises an elastic hook forming a coupling interface and configured to engage under elastic stress in at least one groove forming a complementary coupling interface. It should be noted that the cage has a shape extending along the annular housing, and the elastic hook is configured to engage in the annular space and / or outside the annular housing; in other words, the elastic hook can be internal and / or external. The complementary interface forms a coupling mechanism making it possible to ensure the coupling of the elements.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the groove extends substantially along the annular shell relative to the reference axis, preferably circumferentially relative to the part carrying it, and has an opening oriented radially (eg inwardly or outwardly).

[0039] According to one embodiment, the elastic hook comprises a body extending substantially axially, i.e. parallel to the reference axis, from a base integral with the part carrying the part, the base extending up to an end provided with a tightening head extending at least partially radially and configured to be housed in the groove against which it rests due to the elastic stress exerted by the elastic hook on or in the groove. Advantageously, the axial coupling, i.e. the translational coupling, of the operating member to the bearing cage is ensured by the elastic connection of the elastic hook in the associated groove.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the angular coupling, i.e. the rotational coupling, of the manipulating member to the bearing holder is ensured by the cooperation of at least one elastic hook in at least one associated radial groove. Preferably, the groove extends along a larger corner than the corner of the elastic hook, for example along an almost identical corner, that is to say slightly larger, or only increased by a functional clearance. The groove may be a through groove or not. Obviously, the rotational coupling may be achieved by a plurality of radial grooves, each of which is configured to ensure the insertion of one or more hooks in at least one of these grooves. In a particular configuration, the grooves may be placed relative to one another to ensure the insertion of at least one hook after a minimum angular rotation value. According to one embodiment, the recesses may have different sizes, so that the recesses receive only one hook in the same embodiment, or several elastic hooks may then coexist in the same embodiment. The rotational coupling is performed as soon as at least one hook is inserted into one of the grooves.

[0041] This structure, in which the detachable coupling mechanism of the bearing holder and the operating member comprises an elastic hook forming a coupling interface, which is configured to engage under elastic stress in at least one groove forming a complementary coupling interface, has the advantage of proposing a mechanism that can, on the one hand, resiliently connect or clamp the coupling mechanism in the axial direction regardless of the angular position of the operating member relative to the holder, and on the other hand, from the rotation process, the elastic hook penetrates its position of minimal or no stress in the radial groove by elastic return and makes itself stationary and rests on the side of the groove. Such a configuration also makes it possible to have no predetermined sense of rotation, because the user can drive the holder in rotation by rotating the operating member in one sense or another.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the manipulation member extends along the first subassembly for access from the outside and for manipulation. This is more advantageous in a configuration in which the second subassembly is located around the first subassembly, the first and second rings are coaxial, the bearing cage is radially at least partially located between the first and second rings, and the manipulation member is located between the first and second subassemblies.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the manipulating member has a fastening device, in particular a threaded portion, configured to receive a locking device, in particular a locking flange, through a threaded hole, the locking device being retained in the abutment of the second subassembly in a rolling position to lock its axial position relative to the second subassembly.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the handling member comprises a second bearing between the first and second subassemblies, the second bearing being axially spaced from the first bearing. This makes it possible to ensure better absorption of the forces applied between the first and second subassemblies. Ideally, the axial spacing of these bearings should be as far apart from each other as possible and at least sufficient to introduce the rolling elements.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the bearing race of the second bearing is conical with respect to the reference axis and the rolling elements of the second bearing comprise rollers, for example tapered rollers.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the first mechanical subassembly is a rotating shaft, the first end of which is supported by the second mechanical subassembly in a rolling position, in particular during a rolling and / or operating phase of the propeller.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the first subassembly is a blade root of a propeller having a variable pitch angle.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the second subassembly is a rotating boss of a propeller.

[0049] According to another aspect, the invention also relates to a method for installing an assembly comprising all or part of the above characteristics, said installation method notably comprising the following steps:

[0050] attaching the bearing retainer to the operating member around the first subassembly in place;

[0051] placing the assembly formed by the first subassembly, the bearing retainer and the operating member in position relative to the second subassembly, with the bearing in a maintenance position;

[0052] opening the access channel so that the rolling elements can position themselves through the channel or in a unit at least partially defined by the bearing cage in combination with a rotation of the cage in a predetermined direction, that is, by a rotational displacement of the cage about its reference axis in a predetermined direction;

[0053] separation of the bearing cage and the operating member, displacement of the operating member and relative displacement of the first subassembly with respect to the second subassembly up to the rolling position of the assembly;

[0054] Axial locking of the first mechanical subassembly in a rolling position relative to the second mechanical subassembly.

[0055] According to another aspect, the present invention also relates to a method for disassembling or maintaining a bearing, the method comprising all or part of the above features, the significant feature of the disassembly or maintenance method being that it comprises the following steps:

[0056] axial unlocking of the first mechanical subassembly relative to the second mechanical subassembly;

[0057] In the coupling position, the operating member is displaced toward the bearing cage so that it engages with the coupling interface, thereby bringing the bearing into the maintenance station;

[0058] Rotational displacement of the bearing cage about its reference axis in a predetermined direction to guide the rolling elements towards the channels so that they can be removed by appropriate action or extracted under the effect of gravity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate:

[0060] [ Figure 1 ]: General view of the propeller rotating boss equipped with variable pitch blades;

[0061] [ Figure 2 ]: A general perspective view of a boss portion for receiving a variable pitch propeller blade root according to one embodiment;

[0062] [ Figure 3 ]: a cross-sectional view of a bearing assembly according to the present embodiment;

[0063] [ Figure 4 ]: A perspective view of a retainer according to the present embodiment;

[0064] [ Figure 5A ]: A front view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in the uncoupled position according to the present embodiment;

[0065] [ Figure 5B ]: A front view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in an intermediate position between the uncoupled position and the coupled position according to the present embodiment;

[0066] [ Figure 5C ]: Front view of the bearing holder and the operating member according to the present embodiment in the coupled position;

[0067] [ Fig. 6A ]: Front view of the bearing cage and the operating member in the coupled position according to this embodiment, the cage being equipped with rolling elements;

[0068] [ Figure 6B ]: Fig. 6A Top view and partial view of the

[0069] [ Fig. 7A ]: A cross-sectional view of the assembly in the maintenance position and the coupling position of the bearing according to the present embodiment, wherein the rolling elements are not shown;

[0070] [ Figure 7B ]: A cross-sectional view of an assembly with rolling elements in a maintenance station and a coupling position of a bearing according to the present embodiment;

[0071] [ Figure 7C ]: A cross-sectional view of the assembly according to the present embodiment in a rolling position of the bearing and in a non-coupled position of the bearing cage;

[0072] [ Fig. 8A ]: Figure 7C Detailed picture of

[0073] [ Figure 8B ]: Figure 7C Detailed picture of

[0074] [ Fig. 9 ]: A front view of a bearing retainer and a manipulation member in a non-coupled position according to another embodiment;

[0075] [ Fig. 10A ]:according to Fig. 9 Embodiment of the present invention, a perspective view of a portion of a retaining frame and a manipulation member in an uncoupled position;

[0076] [ Fig. 10B ]:according to Fig. 9 A perspective view of a portion of a cage and a manipulation member of an embodiment of the present invention, in a translational rather than rotational coupling position;

[0077] [ Fig. 10C ]:according to Fig. 9 A perspective view of a portion of a holder and a manipulation member of an embodiment in a translationally and rotationally coupled position;

[0078] [ Fig.11 ]: A perspective view of a retaining bracket in a translational and rotational coupling position according to another embodiment;

[0079] [ Fig. 12A ]: Fig. 10A Detailed cross-sectional view of

[0080] [ Fig. 12B ]: Fig. 10B Detailed drawings and cross-sectional drawings;

[0081] [ Fig. 12C ]: Fig. 10C Detailed drawings and cross-sectional drawings;

[0082] [ Fig.13A ]: Fig. 12C alternatives;

[0083] [ Fig. 13B ]: Fig. 12C The second alternative:

[0084] [ Fig. 13C ]: Fig. 12C The third alternative:

[0085] [ Fig.14A ]: A detailed cross-sectional view of a bearing retainer and a manipulation member in an uncoupled position according to another embodiment;

[0086] [ Fig. 14B ]:according to Fig.14A Embodiment of the invention, a detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in the translational coupling position;

[0087] [ Fig. 14C ]:according to Fig.14A Embodiment of the invention, a detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in the rotationally coupled position;

[0088] [ Fig.15A ]: A detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in a translationally coupled position according to another embodiment;

[0089] [ Fig. 15B ]:according to Fig.15A Embodiment of the invention, a detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in the rotationally coupled position;

[0090] [ Fig.16A ]: A perspective view of a portion of a retaining frame and a manipulation member in a translationally and rotationally coupled position according to another embodiment;

[0091] [ Fig. 16B ]:according to Fig.16A A detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member of the embodiment in the translational coupling position;

[0092] [ Fig. 16C ]:according to Fig.16A Embodiment of the invention, a detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing holder and the operating member in the translational and rotational coupling position;

[0093] [ Fig.17A ]: A detailed cross-sectional view of a bearing retainer and an operating member in a translationally coupled position according to another embodiment;

[0094] [ Fig. 17B ]:according to Fig.17A Embodiment of the invention, detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member in the rotationally coupled position.

[0095] For greater clarity, the same or similar elements are marked with the same reference symbols in all drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0096] Figure 1 Three blades 1 with variable angles of incidence are shown mounted in a boss 12 rotating about the axis of an aircraft propeller A. Blades 1 of this type are fixed to the boss 12 by one of their ends, called the root 11 of the blade 1. The root 11 of the blade 1 can rotate in the chamber 5 of the boss 12 substantially along the axis B by means of a bearing. The axis B of the root 11 substantially merges with the axis of the blade 1.

[0097] The bearing is arranged between the blade root 11 and the side wall of the chamber 5. The stepped side wall rotates substantially around the radial axis of the boss 12 forming the reference axis of the assembly 10. After the blade 1 is mounted, the axis B substantially merges with this radial axis. The chamber 5 is open on the propeller center side through the inner side 12B and on the blade 1 side through the outer side 12A.

[0098] Figure 2 , 3 , 4, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 7C, 8A, 8B show an embodiment of an assembly 10, which is equipped with a bearing 20 for rotationally guiding a first inner ring 21, which is mainly integrated with a first mechanical subassembly 11, such as the blade root of a propeller with a variable pitch angle, and a second outer ring 22, which is integrated with a bracket formed by a second mechanical subassembly 12 forming a rotating boss of the propeller.

[0099] The root 11 of the propeller blade is housed in a cavity of the boss 12 so as to be pivotally connected thereto. The root of the blade forming the first mechanical subassembly 11 is guided in rotation relative to the boss forming the second subassembly 12 so as to vary its pitch angle by means of two bearings 20, 60, the first bearing 20 and the second bearing 60 being respectively located between the first and second subassemblies 11, 12, axially spaced from each other.

[0100] The first bearing 20, furthest from the blade and closest to the axis of rotation A, is an oblique contact ball bearing 23 oriented so that its pressure center is closer to the axis of rotation of the propeller than the bearing itself. Said bearing 20 is located near the end of the blade root 11 or near the inner side 12B in rolling position, while the second bearing 60 is a roller bearing located near the outer side 12A in rolling position of the blade relative to the boss 12.

[0101] The bearing 20 comprises a first ring 21 having a first bearing race 211 and a second ring 22 having a second bearing race 221 .

[0102] The first ring 21 has a first bearing race 211 and is integrated with the first subassembly 11. The second ring 22 has a second bearing race 221 and is integrated with the second subassembly 12. These rings can consist of one piece with another adjacent part in the assembly 10 or be fixed by a fixing means to another part to be integrated into the subassembly. In this example, the second outer ring 22 is shrink-fitted in the propeller boss 12 and the first inner ring 21 is integrated with the blade root, for example, in a removable manner for maintenance reasons, and rests on a shoulder of the blade root that rotates counter to the axis of rotation of the propeller boss.

[0103] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3In order to improve the readability thereof, the entire first subassembly 11 is not shown, and only the first inner rings 21 and 61 of the bearings 20 and 60 are shown.

[0104] The bearing 20 comprises rolling bodies 23, which in the present invention are balls, arranged in an annular rolling roll 24 between the first and second bearing races 211, 221, so as to enable relative rotation between the first ring 21 and the second ring 22 about a reference axis X of the bearing 20, corresponding to the rotation axis B of the root 11 of the blade 1 in the assembled position. In order to keep the rolling bodies 23 equidistant and guide their rotational movement, the bearing 20 is equipped with a cage 25, which comprises units 26 for accommodating the rolling bodies 23. The bearing cage 25, as shown Figure 4 As shown, it includes an annular sleeve 250, which is configured to at least partially surround the first ring 21, and the bearing cage 25 is designed to surround or at least partially surround the first ring 21, and the first ring 21 is placed radially toward the first bearing race 211, especially the cage unit 26 surrounds the first ring 21. In this configuration, the cage 25 is radially located between the first ring 21 and the second ring 22 relative to the reference axis X, that is, radially located between the first subassembly 11 in the form of a rotating shaft end formed by a blade root and the boss 12 formed by the support.

[0105] Separation portions 251 extend axially from said sleeve 250 while defining cells 26 for housing rolling bodies 23. These separation portions 251 make it possible to maintain equidistant rolling bodies in the volume or annular rolling space 24. In this way, any contact or impact between two adjacent rolling bodies 23 is completely eliminated.

[0106] In order to ensure a minimum volume of the bearing cage 25 in the annular rolling space 24, an opening 252 is formed on the front face 253 opposite to the annular sleeve 250. Each unit 26 has a contact surface 260 configured to guide the rolling body 23 received by it and, if necessary, to come into direct contact with the rolling body 23, the contact surface 260 extending over a portion of the spherical shell so as to locally have a shape complementary to the ball 23 received by the unit 26. The contact surface 260 of each unit 26 extends continuously between two adjacent separate parts 251 of the same unit 26, while passing through the sleeve 250 connecting them. The contact surface 260, here in the form of a spherical shell portion, is configured to extend radially inside the bearing 20 from the nominal diameter of the ball 23 to a diameter smaller than said nominal diameter. In this way, the contact surface 260 ensures a coating that is not prone to retaining the ball radially outwards. Such a configuration makes it possible to improve the function of guiding the rolling elements 23 by the cage 25 and not to hinder the movement of the rolling elements 23 during maintenance procedures aimed at taking the rolling elements 23 out of the bearing 20 through the dedicated access channel 30 .

[0107] Each cell 26 for accommodating a rolling body 23 is configured to cover the rolling body 23 so as to retain it axially in said cell 26. Thus, the ball cannot escape axially from the cell 26 via the opening 252.

[0108] In the assembled position, the bearing 20 is located between the first and second subassemblies 11, 12 carrying the first and second rings 21, 22, respectively, with the result that the bearing 20 is confined by the relatively significant volume of these first and second subassemblies 11, 12. In order to ensure access to the rolling bodies 23, the assembly 10 comprises an access channel 30 placing the external medium in communication with the annular rolling roll 24. The access channel 30 passes through the boss 12 and has an internal portion that enables the rolling bodies 23 to pass. When the propeller is in operation, this channel 30 is usually closed by a sealing cover (see Figure 7C ).

[0109] The access passage 30 is configured to pass through the second subassembly 12. The access passage 30 opens at the inner end of the annular rolling roll 24 and the outer end of the outer surface of the assembly 10, and an operator can perform maintenance or assembly operations. The access passage 30 is configured to have an angle of, for example, between 50 and 70 degrees relative to the axis X (see Figure 7B ) slope, with its outer end axially offset relative to its inner end to the inside 12B of the assembly. In this way, when the blade is oriented vertically upwards, upwards, the rolling body 23 can roll in this access channel 30, while being driven by simple gravity action towards the outside of the roll 24. In other words, in the vertical maintenance station, when the blade root 11 is above the axis of rotation of the propeller boss 12 and when the reference axis of the blade root is in the vertical plane, the access channel 30 rises from the outside to the chamber 5 of the propeller boss 12. An annular gasket 28 is present in the propeller boss 12, for example, when shrink-fitted to said boss 12 or integrated in this boss 12, forming the inner opening of the access channel 30.

[0110] Furthermore, the dimensions of the cells 26 of the cage 25 are such that when the cells 26 are vertical or very close to vertical, the rolling bodies 23 can escape from said cells 26 under their own weight, the cells 26 themselves not radially retaining the rolling bodies 23. Thus, when the balls 23 of the bearing 20 are simply placed towards the inner end of the access channel 30, on the one hand the cage 25 does not constitute an obstacle for the rolling bodies 23 to escape to the access channel 30, and on the other hand the access channel 30 can guide the balls 23 directly outwards. In order to ensure the correct functioning of these operations, during assembly and maintenance operations, the assembly 10 is positioned in a certain orientation to benefit from the advantages of this slope and the orientation of the parts taking into account the effect of the weight of the balls. In practice, the ideal position of the assembly is vertical, that is to say, its reference axis X is parallel to the vertical axis, with the blades of the propeller pointing upwards. It should be noted that in this configuration, the assembly can also be oriented so that the direction of its reference axis X is parallel to the horizontal axis.

[0111] The assembly 10 is configured so that the first ring 21 is movable relative to the second ring 22 between a rolling position of the rolling bodies 23 on the first and second bearing races 211 , 221 and a maintenance or assembly position in which the load supported by these rolling bodies 23 is eliminated.

[0112] More generally, the first and second rings 21, 22 of the ball bearing 20 are supported by first and second subassemblies 11, 12, respectively, the first subassembly 11 being formed by the blade root, axially movable relative to the second subassembly 12, the boss, so that the distance between the first and second bearing races 211, 221 can be axially modified. The rolling position corresponds to a position of use of the bearing 20, in which the rolling elements 23 are stressed between their bearing races 211, 221, in particular at a desired preload level, and the maintenance or assembly position corresponds to a position in which the loads on the rolling elements 23 are relieved, thereby enabling them to be handled.

[0113] The assembly 10 also comprises a manipulating member 40 having a dual function: its first function is to enable at least a portion of the bearing 20 to be retained integrally, in particular the bearing retainer 25, during the insertion into the blade root during an assembly step; its second function is to facilitate the axial locking of the first ring 21 relative to the second ring 22, in particular the first subassembly 11 (the blade root) relative to the second subassembly 12 (the boss), in a rolling position, this axial movement being useful during maintenance and assembly operations.

[0114] To this end, the cage 25 comprises an interface 27 for coupling with the operating member 40, so that when the operating member 40 is engaged with the coupling interface 27, the bearing cage 25 can be driven in rotation by the operating member 40 in a predetermined direction D1 relative to the reference axis X. The direction D1 in fact determines the direction of rotation of the cage 25 so that each ball 23 facing the access channel 30 is successively brought along in order to remove the rolling body 23 during maintenance operations, or conversely, to place each unit 26 facing the access channel 30 in order to receive the ball 23 inserted via the access channel 30.

[0115] The coupling interface 27 of the bearing holder 25 and the coupling device 47 of the operating member 40 form a detachable coupling mechanism 50. The coupling mechanism 50 can be separated between the coupling position and the uncoupled position of the bearing holder 25 with the operating member 40. The coupling position of the bearing holder 25 and the operating member 40 corresponds to the position in which the coupling device 47 of the operating member 40 is engaged with the coupling interface 27, so that the rotation displacement X of the operating member 40 relative to the reference axis in the predetermined direction D1 drives the displacement of the bearing holder 25. This drive can have the function of guiding the rolling body 23 to the access channel 30, when it comes to removing the rolling body 23, the rolling body 30 can be removed when it is in the maintenance station during the maintenance phase or the original installation, or it can be realized that each unit 26 of the holder 25 can be placed facing the access channel 30 in turn to insert the rolling body 23 into the rolling space 24. The decoupled position of the bearing cage 25 and the maneuvering member 40 enables an axial displacement of a portion of the maneuvering member 40 in the direction opposite to the bearing cage 25 to axially lock the first ring 21 in the rolling position relative to the second ring 22. This locking is ensured directly by the locking of the first subassembly 11 forming the blade root with the second subassembly 12 forming the boss.

[0116] To this end, the operating member 40 has fastening means, for example a threaded portion 41, which is configured to receive a locking flange 42 forming a locking device via a threaded hole (see Figure 7C ), the locking flange 42 is maintained on the abutment in a rolling position relative to the second subassembly 12 to lock its axial position relative to the second subassembly 12.

[0117] Furthermore, the manipulation member 40 extends along the axis of rotation forming the blade root 11 so as to be accessible from the outside. The threaded portion 41 is provided with the distal end of the manipulation member 40 facing the outer side 12A so as to always be accessible from the outside and to allow the operator to tighten the locking flange 42 by screwing on the threaded portion, thereby blocking the axial position of the blade root 11 in the boss 12 (see Figure 7C ).

[0118] In order to obtain a removable coupling mechanism 50 corresponding to the need to be able to operate the bearing cage 25 by means of an operating member 40, since a portion of this operating member 40 is accessible from the outside of the assembly 10, the coupling interface 27, in particular its sleeve 250, has grooves 270 distributed on its periphery and configured to receive dog clutch legs 470 of the operating member 40 forming the coupling device 47. The grooves extend in the circumferential direction onto the sleeve 250, here radially to the outside with respect to the reference axis X.

[0119] Guide walls 271 are provided on the sleeve 250 to guide each dog clutch leg 470 of the operating member 40 towards its corresponding groove 270 in a continuous manner. These guide walls 271 are arranged radially with respect to the reference axis X so as to enable the dog clutch legs 470 to contact and axially rest on the guide walls 271 during assembly. The guide walls 271 extend to the periphery of the bearing cage 25, while each guide wall forms a spiral or spiral portion around the reference axis X, leading to the corresponding groove 270 at one end of the spiral portion. In this particular configuration, the dog clutch legs and the associated groove 270 extend integrally in a manner parallel to a plane perpendicular to the reference axis X, which enables both to effectively maintain the coupled position, while ensuring that the detachable coupling interface 27 facilitates the separation of the cage 25 and the operating member 40. In general, the dog clutch legs 470 and the grooves 270 must be axially symmetrical and complementary to each other, or at least enable relative rotation between them.

[0120] In order to facilitate the axial coupling of the operating member 40 with the cage 25, a sleeve 250 is provided at the axial end 254, axially opposite its front face 253, whose profile of rotation is configured to ensure the centering of the operating member 40. The profile of rotation is formed here by a local flat cone portion of the outer wall of the sleeve 250, which extends axially to the portion located between the end 254 and the guide wall 271, preferably at its axial end 254, such as a chamfer (not shown in the figure). The operating member 40 has a profile of rotation, which, when approaching the cage 25 in the axial direction, is automatically centered relative to the cage 25 when guided by the conical wall it covers, while coaxially positioning it to the reference axis X of the cage 25.

[0121] This detachable coupling mechanism 50 is very simple to use because it enables the manipulation member 40 to be engaged with the holder 25 by simple axial movement in the direction of bringing the two parts together combined with a rotation D1 of the manipulation member 40 in a predetermined direction. Figure 5A , 5B 5C show the positions of the bearing holder 25 and the operating member 40, which are successively in the uncoupled position, then in an intermediate position between the uncoupled position and the coupled position, and finally in the coupled position. To decouple or separate the two parts, it is sufficient to rotate the operating member 40 relative to the reference axis X in the direction D2 opposite to the predetermined rotation direction D1 of the bearing holder 25.

[0122] As a supplement to the first bearing 20 , in order to ensure a better distribution of forces, a second bearing 60 is located between the first and second subassemblies 11 , 12 , the second bearing 60 being axially spaced from the first bearing 20 .

[0123] The bearing 60 closest to the blade and furthest from the propeller axis of rotation is a bearing with tapered rollers 63 oriented so that its pressure center is further from the propeller axis of rotation than the bearing itself. The first inner ring 61 of this bearing 60 with tapered rollers rests axially on a shoulder formed on the blade root 11 , which shoulder is turned toward the axis of rotation of the propeller boss 12 .

[0124] The bearing 60 comprises a first inner ring 61 having a first bearing race 611 and a second outer ring 62 having a second bearing race 621 .

[0125] The first ring 61 is integral with the first subassembly 11, and the second ring 62 is here part of the operating member 40. Thus, the second bearing 60 is inserted between the first subassembly 11 and the operating member 40. In the same way as the first bearing 20, the rings 61, 62 can be formed as one piece with another adjacent part of the assembly 10, or fixed to another part instead. In this embodiment, the first ring 61 is formed of two complementary half rings 61A, 61B (in Figure 3 ), while the second ring 62 is formed directly by the wall of the manipulation member 40.

[0126] The bearing 60 comprises rolling elements 63, here tapered rollers, arranged in an annular rolling roll 64 between the first and second bearing races 611, 621, so as to enable relative rotation between the first and second rings 61, 62 about the axis of the bearing 60 merging with the reference axis X of the bearing 20. The bearing is tilted relative to the reference axis, and the bearing races 611, 621 of the second bearing 60 are truncated conical relative to the reference axis X. On the one hand, the variable volume chamber 35 (see Figure 7C ) is defined between the cylindrical skirt 34 of the chamber 5 formed in the propeller boss 12 and, on the other hand, a maneuvering member 40 which can be supplied with hydraulic fluid to drive the maneuvering member 40 in the manner of a piston between the maintenance and bearing positions. The maneuvering member 40 thus constitutes, together with the variable volume chamber, a hydraulic jack in the mechanical assembly 10 contained in the chamber 5.

[0127] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clear in view of the different methods for installation, removal or maintenance that will be described below.

[0128] To assemble the blade root 11 into its boss 12, the following steps are performed.

[0129] The first rings 21, 61 of the first and second bearings 20, 60 are fixed to the blade root 11. They consist of two complementary semicircular half rings connected to each other. The rollers 63 are located on the first race 611 and are held together by the cage 65. The second ring 22 of the bearing 20 is also fixed inside the cavity of the boss 12 by a shrink fit, a slight shrink fit being sufficient after introduction inside the boss 12. The bearing cage 25 and the operating member 40 are then positioned in a coupling position around the first subassembly 11, i.e. around the blade root to be placed in the boss 12 of the propeller. In this coupling position, the cage 25 is positioned coaxially with the first ring 21 of the bearing 20.

[0130] This pre-assembly is then inserted axially into a cavity of the boss which receives it into a position such that the rings 21, 22 define an annular body 24 capable of receiving the rolling bodies 23, in particular in the maintenance position of the bearing 20. Thus, an annular mounting volume 24 is formed between the bearing races 211, 221, separated on the inner side 12B by the annular spacer 28. The cage 25 penetrates this annular body 24. Due to the different distances between the bearing races 211, 221 in the maintenance and rolling positions, this annular mounting volume corresponds to a volume greater than that of the annular rolling volume. However, since the same components define these two spaces, the same reference volume 24 designates these two spaces in the figures.

[0131] Next, the access channel 30 is opened in such a way that the rolling element 23 can pass through the channel from the outside to the inside to position itself in the cell 26 at least partially separated by the bearing cage 25. The operator accompanies the ball until it is seated in the relative cell 26 and then rotates the cage 25, which removes the ball 23 from its corresponding access channel 30 so that the ball 23 is retained by the annular spacer 28 and the second bearing race 221 of the second ring 22, preventing it from falling out under the effect of gravity. In other words, in each rotation step of the cage 25, the inserted ball 23 and all the balls 23 that precede it rotate a small part of a revolution inside and outside the annular spacer 28 against the bearing race 211 of the first ring 21.

[0132] Fig. 8A and 8BA detail of a bearing 20 is shown, in a section of which the annular body 24 in which the balls 23 are inserted can be seen. As a result of the necessity to insert the blade root 11 axially with the cage 25 and the maneuvering member 40, the shape must not present an obstacle to this movement. In order to meet this constraint, the maximum diameter of the inner ring 21 is configured to be smaller than the minimum diameter of the outer ring 22. The first and second rings 21, 22, and in particular their associated races 211, 221, can extend along an angular sector less than or equal to 90°. The annular spacer 28 makes it possible to form, together with the first ring 21, a support for the balls 23 in a service station of the bearing 20 during a maintenance phase or during initial installation / assembly of the bearing 20.

[0133] In this maintenance station, the cage 25 and the operating member 40 are axially aligned, forming the same meshing or fixing assembly, arranged coaxially and radially between the chambers of the blade root 11 and the boss 12. In addition, the rings 21, 22 are axially spaced from each other so that the minimum distance separating them is strictly greater than the diameter of the ball 23, so that the ball 23 located in the annular body 24 in the maintenance station does not support any load. The space between the rings 21, 22 is also sufficient to ensure that the rolling body 23 passes between the two rings 21, 22 in order to insert or remove them. In fact, in this way, it is not necessary to provide an access channel directly on the bearing race 221. The design and dimensions of such a cover are much more complicated and costly, because such a cover must remain completely flush with the raceway. In the embodiment shown in the figure, it is easy to get rid of this constraint.

[0134] Still in this maintenance station, the bearing holder 25 is coupled to the operating member 40, the dog clutch legs 470 of the operating member 40 forming the coupling means 47 engage with the grooves 270 of the coupling interface 27, so that the rotational displacement of the operating member 40 in the predetermined direction D1 drives the bearing holder 25 in rotation. Thus, the bearing holder 25 can be rotated by an operator who can access the distal end of the operating member 40 from the outside through the axial protrusion relative to the subassemblies 11, 12. In practice, this rotational drive is performed by the action of the operator directly on the blade, for example, using a suitable tool as a function of the blade size, the rotation of the blade driving the rotation of the ball ring. This manual rotation makes it possible to successively place each unit 26 towards the access channel 30, for example inserting the balls 23 therein.

[0135] When all the units 26 contain the balls 23, the bearing holder 25 is separated from the manipulation member 40 by rotating the manipulation member 40 relative to the reference axis X in a direction D2 opposite to the predetermined rotation direction D1 of the bearing holder 25, and by an axial translation in one direction relative to the holder 25. In this movement, the distal end of the manipulation member 40 extends in a more important way to the outside of the assembly 10, making it possible to access the threaded portion 41 configured to receive the locking flange 42 (see Figure 7C ). When the flange 42 is screwed onto the threaded portion 41, the boss 12 is tightly fixed in the axial direction between the flange and the blade root 11, thereby blocking their relative axial positions.

[0136] In a substantially concomitant manner or after the axial movement of the operating member 40 into the axial locking position of the two mechanical subassemblies 11, 12, the rings 21, 22 are brought together so as to place the bearing 20 in the rolling position, thereby preloading the rolling elements 23. The bearing 60 is also preloaded simultaneously with the first bearing 20. During the translation movement of the operating member 40 from the service station to the rolling position, when said translation begins, the decoupling is carried out in a synchronized manner, the preloading can then be carried out, and the bearing cage 25 will be completely decoupled, in order to avoid tearing the bearing cage 25 while moving the operating member 40 backwards.

[0137] The bearing races 211, 221 are brought together by injecting hydraulic oil into the variable volume chamber, which has the effect of pushing the ring 62 axially upwards with the tapered rollers, which drive the blade root 11 in their translational movement and thus the inner ring 21 of the ball 23 bearing 20. When the balls 23 come into contact with the second outer bearing race 221, the annular body 24 is gradually reduced until it is taken out. Figure 7C The dimensions of the middle annular housing. If necessary, hydraulic pressure applied in the variable volume chamber can load the opposing bearing and tension the blade root.

[0138] Once the rolling position is reached and the bearing is preloaded, the operator can perform an axial locking of the first mechanical subassembly 11 relative to the second mechanical subassembly 12 by means of a nut such as a locking flange.

[0139] The annular rolling space 24 is particularly narrow and a minimum distance must be provided between said bearing cage 25 and the races 211, 221 for safety, even for the bearing cage 25, in order to avoid any risk of degradation of said races 211, 221 or of the cage itself. In order to guarantee that each rolling element has the same good coverage while meeting these dimensional constraints, the front face 253 of the cage 25 comprises at least one chamfer 255, preferably at its radially inner end: this chamfer 255 eliminates the risk of collision of the bearing cage with the races and makes it possible to place the front face 253 at a greater distance, parallel to the races, thus increasing the coverage and improving the guidance of the balls 23.

[0140] In the operating rolling position, the rotation of the propeller boss 12 about its axis of rotation makes it possible to drive the propeller and the blades. A mechanism for adjusting the pitch angle of the blades (not shown in the figures) makes it possible to maintain or modify the pitch angle of the blades as required by turning the blade root in its bearing 20, the blade root 60 for guidance about the reference axis X and by blocking the blade root 11 in the desired angular position.

[0141] In other cases, the assembly 10 may be disassembled, or the balls must be replaced or inspected. In order to disassemble or to ensure maintenance of the blade root 11 in its boss 12, the following steps are performed, generally in reverse order.

[0142] First, the chamber 5 or chambers of the propeller boss 12 are positioned so that their main axis X is vertical and oriented as shown in the figure, in particular Fig. 7A , 7B and 7C.

[0143] Next, the operator axially unlocks the first mechanical subassembly 11 relative to the second mechanical subassembly 12 by unscrewing the locking flange 42 from the anchoring on the thread 41, which has the effect, in the absence of pressure in the variable volume chamber, of displacing the blade root 11 under its own weight and of moving the bearing race 221 relative to the ball 23 bearing 20. In order to avoid the risk of the blade falling off or excessive force applied by the maintenance personnel during disassembly, it is obvious that the hydraulic device described above can be used to support the weight of the blade during the relative displacement of the races 211 and 221. In other words, the first subassembly 11 is axially moved relative to the second subassembly 12 along the reference axis X, which means that the first ring 21 is axially moved relative to the second ring 22 of the bearing 20. The result of this movement is the elimination of the load on the rolling element 23. The load on the rolling element 63 is also eliminated at the same time.

[0144] At the end of the stroke of the above-mentioned displacement, the operating member 40 is moved towards the bearing cage by a combination of a translation along the reference axis X and a rotation along the direction D1 about the same axis X, until it engages in the coupling position on its coupling interface 27, thereby placing the bearing 20 in a maintenance position in which the load on the rolling elements 23 is eliminated. The relative axial displacement of the first subassembly 11 with respect to the second subassembly 12 and the relative axial displacement of the operating member 40 with respect to the bearing cage can be partially concomitant.

[0145] Next, the bearing cage 25 is rotationally displaced in the same predetermined direction D1 about its reference axis X in order to guide the rolling elements 23 into the access channels 30 , from where they can escape from the simple influence of their weight and be removed.

[0146] During all these maintenance and rolling phases, the cage 25 ensures its function of guiding the rolling elements 23 , thereby effectively avoiding any contact, impact or wear between the rolling elements 23 .

[0147] Figure 9 to 1 7 shows different embodiments, in particular alternative embodiments of the coupling mechanism 50 .

[0148] Fig. 9 , 10AThe alternative embodiments shown in Figures 10B, 10C, 12A, 12B and 12C are essentially different from the above-mentioned embodiments in that the retaining frame includes at least one groove 71, which is configured to receive the coupling device 47 of the operating member, that is, an elastic hook that can be detachably coupled here, and is connected to the groove 71 through elastic stress.

[0149] The elastic hooks 72 are distributed over the circumference of the operating member, each of which comprises a body 720 extending axially as a whole, i.e. parallel to the reference axis X, starting from a base 721 integrated with the axial end of the operating member 40, axially opposite its threaded portion 41. Each elastic hook 72 is configured to couple or cooperate with the groove 71. Each elastic hook 72 is substantially articulated or elastically flexible at the level of its base (e.g. at the junction of the body of the elastic hook and the operating member 40). Each elastic hook 72 is provided with a fastening head 722 at its distal end opposite to the base 721, which fastening head 722 extends at least partially radially and is configured to be accommodated in the groove 71, and the fastening head 722 is elastically stressed in the coupling position in the groove 71. The elastic hook 72 extends over the annular circumference of the retainer along a predetermined angular sector, defining the width of the hook so as to give the elastic hook 72 a certain rigidity.

[0150] The groove 71 is supported by the sleeve 250 of the cage 25 and extends along an annular housing relative to the reference axis X, preferably relative to the circumference of the cage 25, and has an opening 710 oriented radially outwards relative to the reference axis X. The axial coupling, that is to say the translational coupling, of the operating member 40 to the bearing cage is ensured by the elastic attachment of the elastic hooks 72 in the associated groove 71.

[0151] The groove 71 is bordered on the axial side that receives the elastic hook 72 in translation by a projection 711 extending along the annular housing. This projection 711 comprises, on its outer side axially opposite to the inner side defining the groove 71, a guide wall, for example a chamfer 712, making it possible to guide the elastic hook during its coupling trajectory during the coupling of the coupling mechanism 50, during which operation, in addition to centering the maneuvering member 40 relative to the cage 25, to ensure a progressive widening of the elastic hook 72, i.e. its elastic deformation, until its fit in the groove 71. In this way, the fastening head 722 at the distal end of each elastic hook moves radially and elastically, by sliding on said chamfer 712 at the end of the track in the groove, under the influence of the bending of the relative elastic hook, and ensures the function of elastic attachment or axial snap-in. Thus, when the resilient hook 72 is placed in the groove 71 to avoid its unintentional unhooking, the projection 711 forms a stop notch for the coupled position of the two parts, however, a translation in the sense of separating the two parts, unhooking is possible by applying a sufficient predetermined stress (in particular at least equal to the snap-fitting force). The groove 71 has a bottom extending continuously along the housing on its circumference, and each of its parts is identical to all the other parts, so that once coupled in translation with the holder 25, after performing the translation movement, the operating member 40 can be pivoted.

[0152] In order to limit the relative axial translation of the manipulation member 40 with respect to the holder 25, all or part of the elastic hooks include a protrusion 723, for example, at the level of its body, which protrusion 723 faces the side of the part to which it is connected, that is, inwardly in the present invention, and is configured to form an axial stop capable of axially receiving the protrusion 711 in the abutment. This stop can have different configurations: for example, the axial protrusion 723 can be integrated with the manipulation member 40 and configured to receive the axial end 254 of the part bearing the groove 71 in the abutment, because the holder 25 or another protrusion 713 can be axially adjacent to the groove 71 on the other side of the protrusion 711 and configured to receive the axial end of the elastic hook 72 in the axial abutment (see, for example Fig.17A ). Obviously, other surfaces may be used entirely to form such a relative axial stop between the two parts.

[0153] The angular coupling, i.e. the rotational coupling, of the manipulating member 40 with the bearing cage is ensured by the elastic attachment of at least one elastic hook 72 in a corresponding notch 73. The notch 73 is radially open on the same side (here the outside) as the groove 71 and is configured so that when the elastic hook 72 is placed radially towards the notch 73, it can return to its rest position without deformation, in the manner of a cotter pin, in order to penetrate this notch 73 and rotationally connect the cage 25 to the manipulating member 40. The notch 73 extends along an angular sector greater than the angular sector of one of the elastic hooks 72. In this way, the elastic hook 72 has a width less than that of the notch 73 and can be accommodated therein. The angular sector of the notch 73 is delimited by two side edges 731, each of which is substantially contained in a plane containing the reference axis X. The recess 73 corresponds at least to a local discontinuity in the protrusion 711, but can extend in a more or less progressive manner over the entire or partial cross section of the sleeve 250, so that the sides 731 of the recess 73 each correspond to at least one slice of this protrusion 711 up to the entire part of the sleeve 250. In the coupled position, each elastic hook 72 rests on the groove 71, which can be positioned at the level of the fastening head 722 resting on the bottom of the relative groove and / or the body 720 of the elastic hook resting on the protrusion 711. The configuration of the recess 73 allows at least one elastic hook 72 to be placed therein, in a state of elastic stress lower than that of the groove 71. In this way, after a relative rotation of the operating member 40 with respect to the holder 25, the elastic hook 72 positions itself towards the recess 73, its elastic stress being released and enabling the elastic hook 72 to penetrate the two side edges 731 that delimit it. By the movement that causes the relative rotation of the operating member 40 with respect to the holder 25, the hook rests against the side edges 731 placed in its path and drives the holder 25 in rotation.

[0154] In a complementary or alternative manner, the recess 73 may locally have a radial depth greater than the radial depth of the groove 71, until it is a through groove in the thickness of the part (see, for example, Fig.13A , 13B and 13C and embodiments of 16A, 16B and 16C).

[0155] Once coupled in translation with the holder 25, the manipulator member 40 can be pivoted until one of the appropriate elastic hooks 72 penetrates the notch 73 by elastic return, wherein a portion of the associated elastic hook 72 engages the lateral abutment against one of the lateral edges 731 of the notch 73. Thus, the notch 73 receiving the elastic hook 72, called "anti-rotation", is occupied after a simple rotation of the widest width of the hook 72 of the manipulator member 40, thus under the simple influence of a return to the undeformed position of said hook, or in at least a minimally deformed position corresponding to a minimal position with respect to the stress in the groove 71.

[0156] In this way, the bearing holder 25 can be rotationally driven by the operating member 40 in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis X. Rotation in another sense may be performed after the movement corresponding to the specific gap according to the size, so that the anti-rotation elastic hook 72 contacts the other side 731 of the recess 73 and abuts against it in the seat, so that the bearing holder can be rotationally driven by the operating member 40 in the opposite direction relative to the reference axis X.

[0157] It should be noted that the deformable area of ​​each elastic hook 72 can be formed by a circular extrusion of its profile with or without a groove. The shape and size of each elastic hook 72 makes it possible to facilitate the elastic deformation area of ​​said elastic hook 72.

[0158] To decouple or separate the two parts, it is sufficient to perform only an axial translation of the operating member 40 relative to the reference axis X, i.e. a simple movement in the direction of separating the two parts. In order to ensure this detachable nature of the coupling, for example, the protrusion 711 can be surrounded by another inclined wall on one side inside the protrusion 711 or on the side opposite to the guide wall 712 to guide the elastic hook 72. When a predetermined force is applied to the operating member 40 tending to separate the two parts 25, 40, on their decoupling trajectory, a gradual widening of the elastic hook 72 is ensured. The inclination of this wall should be chosen to be important enough so as not to accidentally cause the separation of the two parts, but should be sufficiently reduced so that the two parts can be separated from the predetermined force, preferably so that the manual operation of the operator can separate the two parts without the need to use specific tools. It should be noted that the function implemented by the protrusion 711 can have different structures. For example, the fastening heads 722 of the resilient hooks 72 may be used, particularly configured by their shape, to snap onto shoulders, for example, to configure the coupling to ensure that the snap-in "unsnapping" force is greater than the snap-in installation force.

[0159] Fig.11 A perspective view of a bearing cage 25 according to another embodiment is shown, in a translational and rotational coupling position of the operating member 40 with the cage 25. This embodiment differs substantially from the previous one in that the axial projections 72' of the cage 25 are configured to cooperate by elastic deformation in a housing 71' formed in the thickness of the operating member 40 and configured to form together the coupling mechanism 50. The opening of the housing 71' housing the projections 72' is open in the axial direction relative to the reference axis X. To ensure the cooperation of the elastic deformation, the axial projections 72' of the cage 25 have lateral bulges or expansions which are oriented along the thickness of the sleeve 250, substantially perpendicular to the direction of the plane containing the reference axis X.

[0160] Fig.13A , 13BThe alternatives shown in 13C relate to different embodiments, in which the anti-rotation resilient hooks 72 can be seen in the associated recesses 73, and the shapes and sizes of the resilient hooks 72 vary. Thus, for example, Fig.13A and 13B As shown, the resilient hook 72 may have a substantially curved shape, or even have a curved area to better control the pressure, or conversely be more inclined inwardly to increase the coverage of the resilient hook cross section with the surface 731, as shown in FIG. Fig. 13C shown.

[0161] In general, it should be noted that the shape of the elastic hook 72 is designed to:

[0162] Provide sufficient snap-on force for installation and / or maintenance operations;

[0163] The snap-on loosening force of the resilient hook 72 will not degrade under the action of removing the bearing retainer 25; and

[0164] Sufficient resistance to drive the bearing cage and its balls 23 in the configuration where the force opposite to the desired rotation is greatest, while taking into account potential safety factors.

[0165] Fig.14A , 14B 14C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the bearing retainer and the operating member 40 according to another embodiment, respectively in a non-coupled ( Fig.14A )、Translational coupling( Fig. 14B ) and translational and rotational coupling ( Fig. 14C )Location.

[0166] This embodiment is substantially different from the above-described embodiment in that the elastic hook 72 has a fastening head 722 extending radially outward and is configured to be received in the groove 71 inwardly of the opening 710. Like the groove 71, the protrusion 711 protrudes inwardly. In this way, the elastic hook 72 of the manipulation member 40 slides into the radial inner space of the sleeve 250. The coupling of the elastic hook 72 in the groove enables an internal snap-on connection.

[0167] Fig.15A and 15B The embodiment shown represents an alternative embodiment which differs substantially from the previously described one, in that the elastic hook 72 of the coupling mechanism 50 is integrated with the cage 25 and the groove 71 and with the maneuvering member 40 .

[0168] Fig.16A , 16BThe embodiment shown in 16C represents an alternative embodiment, which differs from the previous embodiment in that the coupling mechanism 50 comprises internal and external elastic hooks 72 in an alternating manner on the periphery to ensure the connection of the internal and external elastic hooks 72 respectively located in the internal groove and the external groove of the socket 250. In this way, the elastic hooks 72 are alternately engaged from the inside and then from the outside. The recess 73 here radially passes through the wall of the bearing cage 25, so that the rotational connection can be achieved without distinguishing between one of the internal or external elastic hooks 72.

[0169] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B The illustrated embodiment represents a reference Fig.15A and Fig. 15B The described embodiment is a substantially different alternative, since the coupling of the resilient hooks 72 in the grooves enables snap-fitting from the inside.

[0170] Of course, the present invention has been described above as an example. It should be appreciated that those skilled in the art can implement different alternative embodiments of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0171] For example, the coupling mechanism 50 described in the first embodiment by the cooperation of the coupling device 47 of the operating member 40 including the dog clutch leg 470, and the coupling interface 27 including the groove of the bearing retainer, can have different structures to ensure the same function. For example, a ferromagnetic coupling device can also be used as a replacement or supplement. Other coupling devices according to embodiments can also include splines. In both cases, the coupling device 47 of the operating member 40 and the coupling interface 27 of the retainer 25 can be coupled by a simple translation along the reference axis X.

[0172] The chamfer 712 , which enables promoting elastic attachment by forming a surface for guiding the elastic hooks during coupling of the coupling mechanism 50 , may have another shape, such as a surface of the connector spoke of a circular or oval profile.

[0173] The hydraulic jack consisting of an operating member constituting a piston and a variable volume chamber in a stepped chamber 5 constituting a propeller boss 12 may, if applicable, be replaced by any other type of actuator (whose energy source may be hydraulic, pneumatic or electric), such as an endless screw electric actuator.

Claims

1. A bearing retainer for a bearing, the bearing comprising a first ring having a first bearing race, a second ring having a second bearing race, and rolling bodies, the rolling bodies being positioned in an annular rolling roll between the first bearing race and the second bearing race so that the first ring and the second ring are relatively rotatable about a reference axis of the bearing; the bearing retainer comprising: - each unit is intended to accommodate one of the associated rolling elements, and a coupling interface for coupling the bearing holder with the operating member, the coupling interface being configured to ensure a detachable coupling such that the bearing holder can be rotationally driven by the operating member in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis when the operating member is engaged with the coupling interface; This drive makes it possible to place each unit of the bearing cage in turn facing the access channel in order to insert the rolling elements into the annular rolling coil.

2. The bearing retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the units is configured to cover an associated one of the rolling elements in order to axially hold the associated one of the rolling elements and the bearing cage in the operating position during the operating phase.

3. The bearing retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The unit is shaped such that the rolling bodies are not radially retained, at least in a radial centrifugal direction, so that the rolling bodies can radially escape from the unit under the effect of gravity.

4. The bearing retainer according to claim 1 further comprising - an annular sleeve, the spaces of which extend axially from said annular sleeve to define the cell, and - An opening formed on the front side of the bearing cage opposite the annular sleeve.

5. The bearing retainer according to claim 4, wherein: The annular sleeve has an axial end axially opposite the front face, the axial end comprising a rotation profile configured to ensure centering of the maneuvering member.

6. The bearing retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each unit has a contact surface which is configured to be locally complementary to the associated rolling element.

7. The bearing retainer according to claim 6, wherein: The contact surface extends onto the spherical housing portion.

8. The bearing retainer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The coupling interface comprises at least one of two coupling interfaces, one of which is constituted by an elastic hook and the other by at least one groove, and the first of the two coupling interfaces is configured to engage with the second of the two coupling interfaces carried by the operating member through an elastic attachment.

9. The bearing retainer according to claim 8, characterized in that: The groove receives the elastic hook on one side during coupling via a radial protrusion, and the radial protrusion includes a guide wall for guiding the elastic hook.

10. The bearing retainer according to claim 9, wherein: The guide wall is configured to guide the manipulation member toward a centered position relative to the bearing cage.

11. The bearing retainer according to claim 4, wherein: The front face of the bearing retainer includes at least one chamfer, and the chamfer is located radially inward.

12. A rolling bearing comprising - a first ring having a first bearing race, - a second ring having a second bearing race, - an annular rolling ring in which the rolling elements are positioned between the first bearing race and the second bearing race so as to enable relative rotation of the first ring and the second ring about a reference axis of the bearing, and - a bearing cage according to claim 1, comprising cells each for accommodating one of the associated rolling elements, and a coupling interface for coupling the bearing cage with a manipulation member, such that the bearing cage can be rotationally driven by the manipulation member in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis when the manipulation member engages with the coupling interface, The first ring is axially movable relative to the second ring between at least a rolling position of the rolling bodies on the first and second bearing races and a maintenance station in which the loads supported by the rolling bodies are relieved.

13. The rolling bearing according to claim 12, wherein: The rolling elements are balls.

14. A component comprising: - a first mechanical subassembly, - a second mechanical subassembly, - rolling bearing according to claim 12, comprising a first ring with a first bearing race, a second ring with a second bearing race, wherein the first ring is integral with a first mechanical subassembly and the second ring is integral with a second mechanical subassembly, the rolling bodies are located in an annular rolling roll between the first bearing race and the second bearing race so that the first ring and the second ring can rotate relative to each other around a reference axis of the bearing, and the bearing cage comprises a unit for accommodating the rolling bodies, wherein the bearing cage comprises a coupling interface, the first ring being movable relative to the second ring between a rolling position of the rolling bodies on the first bearing race and the second bearing race and a maintenance station in which the load supported by the rolling bodies is eliminated; a manipulation member which, in the coupled position of the assembly, engages with the coupling interface such that the bearing cage can be rotationally driven by the manipulation member in a predetermined direction relative to the reference axis, and An access channel connecting the external environment to the annular rolling body, the access channel having an inner portion allowing at least the rolling bodies to pass through.

15. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The first mechanical subassembly is axially movable relative to the second mechanical subassembly such that a distance between the first bearing race and the second bearing race can be varied.

16. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The manipulation member is configured to facilitate axial locking of the first mechanical subassembly in a rolling position relative to the second mechanical subassembly.

17. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The bearing holder and the operating member comprise a coupling mechanism movable between a coupled position and an uncoupled position, wherein in the coupled position a coupling interface of the operating member engages with a coupling interface of the bearing holder such that the operating member drives the displacement of the bearing holder with a rotational displacement in a predetermined direction relative to a reference axis, and wherein in the uncoupled position the uncoupled position enables the displacement of the operating member to axially lock the first ring relative to the second ring in a rolling position.

18. The assembly of claim 17, wherein: The coupling mechanism comprises a resilient hook configured to engage under elastic stress in at least one groove forming the coupling interface of the bearing cage.

19. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The manipulation member is accessible from outside the first and second mechanical subassemblies.

20. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The manipulation member has fastening means configured to receive, through a threaded hole, locking means which are held against the second mechanical subassembly in a rolled position to axially lock the second mechanical subassembly relative to the second mechanical subassembly.

21. The assembly of claim 14, wherein: The first mechanical subassembly is a rotating shaft, a first end of which is supported in a rolling position by the second mechanical subassembly.

22. The assembly of claim 21, wherein: The first mechanical subassembly is a blade root of a propeller having a variable pitch angle, and the second mechanical subassembly is a rotating boss of the propeller.

23. A method for installing an assembly according to claim 14, comprising the steps of: - placing the bearing cage and the operating member in a coupling position around the first mechanical subassembly; - placing the temporary assembly formed by the first mechanical subassembly, the bearing holder and the manipulating member in the appropriate position relative to the second mechanical subassembly, placing the bearing in the maintenance station; - opening the access channel in such a way that the rolling elements can enter or be positioned in the unit through the access channel while the bearing cage is rotating in a predetermined direction; - disengagement of the bearing cage and the operating member, displacement of the operating member and realization of a relative displacement of the first mechanical subassembly with respect to the second mechanical subassembly up to the rolling position of said assemblies; - axially locking the first mechanical subassembly relative to the second mechanical subassembly in a rolling position.

24. A method for disassembling or maintaining an assembly according to claim 14, comprising the steps of: - axially unlocking the first mechanical subassembly relative to the second mechanical subassembly; - moving the operating member to the bearing cage in the coupling position to engage the coupling interface of the bearing cage, thereby bringing the bearing into the maintenance station; - Rotate the bearing cage in a predetermined direction to direct the rolling elements toward the access channel.

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