Tilted radial lip seal assembly

Abstract

A seal assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat includes an annular housing couplable with the seat or the shaft, and an annular seal member having a sealing surface centered about a centerline. In certain constructions, a coupling is configured to connect the seal member with the housing or to connect the housing with the seat such that, when the seal assembly is mounted about the shaft, the seal member is positioned with the centerline of the sealing surface intersecting or skewed relative to a central axis. In other constructions, the seal member has a skewed end that provides a skewed sealing surface. Thereby, the centerline of the sealing surface and the central axis define an angle having a value of at least one degree, and the sealing surface engages an outer surface of the shaft to define an elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to sealing assemblies, and more particularly to radial lip sealing assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] Radial lip seal assemblies (also known as "oil seals") essentially consist of an annular rigid housing and an annular elastomeric seal member connected to the housing and providing a circular sealing lip. Such seal assemblies are mounted about a shaft and are used to seal the annular space between the shaft and an outer housing member, providing an inward seal against the shaft or an outward seal against the housing member. While known radial lip seals provide adequate sealing in most applications, it is desirable to optimize sealing efficiency and extend the life of the seal product. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, the invention is a sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a housing, the shaft or housing being rotatable about a central axis extending through the shaft, the shaft having an outer circumferential surface and the housing having an inner circumferential surface. The sealing assembly includes: an annular case for coupling to the housing or shaft; and an annular sealing member coupled to the case and having a circular sealing surface with a centerline. The sealing surface may engage with the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the housing such that when the sealing assembly is mounted about the shaft, the centerline of the sealing surface is angled or skewed relative to the central axis.

[0004] On the other hand, the present invention is still a sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft being rotatable about a central axis. The sealing assembly includes: an outer annular housing, connectable to the seat; and an inner annular sealing member having a centerline and an inner circumferential sealing surface centered on the centerline. A component positions the sealing member such that, when the sealing assembly is mounted about the shaft, the centerline of the sealing member intersects or deviates relative to the central axis; said component is preferably a coupler or a bore in the seat. Thus, the centerline of the sealing member defines an angle relative to the central axis, said angle having a value of at least one degree, and the sealing surface engages the outer surface of the shaft to define a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis.

[0005] In other respects, the invention is again a sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft or seat being rotatable about a central axis extending through the shaft. The sealing assembly includes: an annular housing, connectable to the seat or shaft; and an annular sealing member having a centerline and a circumferential sealing surface centered on the centerline. The coupling is configured to connect the sealing member to the housing or shaft, or the housing to the seat, such that when the sealing assembly is mounted about the shaft, the sealing member is positioned such that its centerline intersects or deviates from the central axis. Thus, the centerline of the sealing member defines an angle relative to the central axis, the angle having a value of at least one degree, and the sealing surface engages the outer surface of the shaft to define a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis.

[0006] In another aspect, the invention also provides a sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft or seat being rotatable about a central axis extending through the shaft. The sealing assembly includes: an annular housing, connectable to the seat or shaft; and an annular sealing member having a centerline and having an axially inner end connected to the housing, an axially outer end providing a circular sealing surface, and a central portion extending between the axially inner and axially outer ends. The axial length of the central portion of the sealing member varies from a maximum value at a first angular position about the centerline to a minimum value at a second angular position about the centerline, the second angular position being spaced 180 degrees from the first angular position. Thus, when the sealing assembly is arranged about the shaft, the sealing surface is arranged in an angled plane, the centerline and central axis of the body not extending perpendicular to the angled plane. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The foregoing description of the invention and its preferred embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, illustrative embodiments that are currently preferred are shown in the drawings. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise configurations and implementations shown. In the drawings:

[0008] Figure 1 This is an axial cross-sectional view of a sealing assembly according to the first inward sealing structure of the present invention, shown as mounted about an axis and installed in a seat;

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of the upper part;

[0010] Figure 3 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the sealing assembly of the first structure;

[0011] Figure 4 It is an axial cross-sectional view of the combined housing and connecting parts of the sealing assembly of the first structure;

[0012] Figure 5 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the sealing assembly of the second outward sealing structure, shown as mounted about the shaft and installed in the housing;

[0013] Figure 6 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the combined housing and connecting parts of the sealing assembly of the second structure;

[0014] Figure 7 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the sealing assembly of the third construction, shown as mounted about the shaft and installed in the seat;

[0015] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An enlarged view of the upper part;

[0016] Figure 9 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the connecting part of the sealing assembly of the third structure;

[0017] Figure 10 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the sealing assembly of the fourth inward sealing structure, shown as mounted about the shaft and installed in the seat;

[0018] Figure 11 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the sealing member of the fourth-structure sealing assembly; and

[0019] Figure 12 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the sealing assembly of the fifth construction, shown as mounted around the axis and installed within the housing. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Certain terms used in the following description are for convenience only and not for limitation. The words “inner,” “inward,” and “outer,” “outward,” respectively refer to directions toward and away from the designated centerline or geometric center of the described element, and their particular meanings are self-evident from the context of the specification. Furthermore, as used herein, the words “connection” and “linkage” are each intended to include: a direct connection between two components without any other component between them; and an indirect connection between components, wherein one or more other components are between them. Terms include those specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and terms with similar meanings.

[0021] Now referring in detail to the accompanying drawings (in which the same reference numerals are always used to denote the same elements), in Figures 1 to 12 The image shows a sealing assembly 10 for sealing the annular space between a shaft 1 and a housing 2. The shaft 1 has a circumferential outer surface 1a, and the housing 2 has a circumferential inner surface 2a defining a bore 3. The shaft 1 can be housed within the housing 2 about a central axis A extending through the rotatable shaft 1. C Rotation, or seat 2 can be rotated around the central axis A extending through the fixed shaft 1. C Rotation. The sealing assembly 10 mainly includes: an annular housing (case) 12 having a centerline 13; and an annular sealing member 14, connected to the housing 12, and having a centerline CL. S A circular sealing surface 15. The sealing surface 15 can engage with the outer surface 1a of the shaft or the inner surface 2a of the seat, such that when the sealing assembly 10 is mounted about the shaft 1, the centerline CL of the sealing surface 15 is... S Relative to central axis A C Inclined (at an angle) or skewed; that is, the centerline CL S Not with axis A C Coaxial or not parallel to axis A C The sealing member 14 is preferably "fixed" to a non-rotatable seat 2 or shaft 1 and seals against a rotating member 1 or 2, but it can also be fixed to a rotatable shaft 1 or seat 2 and seals against a fixed seat 2 or shaft 1.

[0022] exist Figures 1 to 9 and Figure 12 In some of the depicted configurations, the sealing assembly 10 includes a conventional annular sealing member 14 positioned such that the centerline CL... S Relative to central axis A C The intersecting or skewed component or device 16 preferably includes a coupler 18 as described below. In such cases... Figure 10 and Figure 11 In other configurations shown, the sealing assembly 10 forms a generally standard housing 12, and the sealing member 14 includes an annular body 60 having an inclined outer end 60a providing a circular sealing surface 15 oriented such that the surface centerline CL S Relative to central axis A C Tilt / skew. In any case, the centerline CL of the sealing surface 15. S Relative to central axis A C Limited by angle θ S Angle θ S It has a value of at least one degree (1°), and preferably between two and a half degrees (2.5°) and five degrees (5°) or even greater (e.g., >5°), for the following reasons.

[0023] Furthermore, the housing 12 is formed of a rigid material, preferably a metallic material (e.g., aluminum, low-carbon steel, etc.), but may also be formed of a rigid polymer, ceramic, etc., and can be directly or via a coupling 18 or another intermediate component (not shown) connected to the seat 2, or mounted on the shaft 1. The housing 12 has a centerline 13 and includes an axial portion 20 having opposing axial ends 20a, 20b and a radial flange 22 extending from the axial portion 20. The annular sealing member 14 is preferably formed of an elastomeric material (such as natural or synthetic rubber, thermoplastic, etc.) and is connected to the flange 22 of the housing. The sealing member 14 has a circular circumferential inner surface 17 (e.g., ...). Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figures 7 to 12 The outer circumference of the depicted or circular surface 19 (as shown) Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown), each surface 17, 19 is aligned with the center line CL. S Centered on and provided with a sealing surface 15. As described in detail below, the sealing surface 15 may sealably engage with the outer surface 1a of the shaft (or the outer surface of an assembly arranged around the shaft 1, such as a sleeve) or with the inner surface 2a of the seat (or the inner surface of an assembly arranged within the bore 3 of the seat).

[0024] Preferably, the annular sealing member 14 is formed as a radial lip seal having a cantilever body 24, the cantilever body 24 having a fixed axial inner end 24a connected to the housing 12, an opposing free axial outer end 24b, and a wedge-shaped section 24c adjacent to the free end 24b, the wedge-shaped section 24c providing a sealing surface 15. Preferably, as Figure 3 and Figure 11 As shown, the wedge-shaped portion 24c of the sealing body 24 includes an annular lip 26, a sealing surface 15 formed on the annular lip 26, and the annular lip 26 has a front face 27A and an opposing rear face 27B. The front face 27A and the rear face 27B intersect at the sealing surface 15 to create a front contact angle α between each face 27A, 27B and the shaft 1 or seat 2, respectively. F and the rear contact angle α R (like Figure 2 (As shown). Preferably, the sealing assembly 10 is used such that the front end 27A is positioned on the higher pressure or "oil side" OS of the sealing assembly 10, and the rear end 27B is positioned on the lower pressure or "air side" AS of the assembly 10. Furthermore, the cantilever body 24 preferably also includes an annular groove 25, and an annular helical spring (or self-tightening spring) 29 is arranged within the groove 25 and configured to cause the sealing body 24 to be radially inward ( Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 as well as Figures 10 to 12 Or radially outward ( Figure 5 The lip 26 is biased to create contact pressure between the outer surface 1a of the shaft or the inner surface 2a of the seat. However, the sealing member 14 can be formed and / or used in any other suitable manner.

[0025] CL at the centerline of the sealing surface S Relative to central axis A C In the aforementioned orientation, the sealing surface 15 engages the outer surface 1a of the shaft or the inner surface 2a of the seat to define the area around the central axis A. C The roughly elliptical sealing interface SI extending circumferentially (e.g.) Figure 1 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 and Figure 12 (As shown). The sealing interface SI has two axial endpoints P1 and P2, which are located around the central axis A. C They are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart in the circumferential direction, and along the central axis A. C Axially spaced by an axial distance D A Furthermore, the two endpoints P1 and P2 axially define (limit) the contact band BC of the outer surface 1a of the shaft, and the width of the contact band BC is equal to the axial distance D. A The width of the contact band BC is preferably at least one millimeter (1 mm) and most preferably at least four millimeters (4 mm).

[0026] For existing known sealing assemblies, the shaft surface in contact with the sealing lip is a narrow, circular band (typically with a width between about one-tenth of a millimeter (0.1 mm) and about five-tenths of a millimeter (0.5 mm)) located directly below the compression lip, which remains engaged with the lip throughout the shaft's rotation. However, by increasing the contact area of ​​the sealing surface 15 by tilting the sealing interface SI axially across the outer surface 1a of the shaft, only a portion of the shaft surface area within the contact band BC engages with the sealing lip 26 at any given moment during shaft rotation. That is, as the shaft 1 rotates, a portion of the shaft's contact band BC passes beneath the sealing surface 15 of the lip 26, while the remainder of the contact band is exposed to air or oil (or other fluids retained, such as grease, water, etc.). This increases heat dissipation from the uncovered portion of the contact band BC via convection and / or conduction, thereby reducing heat transfer through the elastomeric sealing member 14. Therefore, compared to previously known sealing assemblies, the material degradation rate of sealing member 14 is significantly reduced, and the lifespan of sealing assembly 10 is correspondingly extended (or increased). Similarly, although typically formed of a material relatively harder than sealing member 14, the material degradation of shaft 1 or seat 2 (i.e., either of which is abutted and sealed) is also reduced due to the increased size of contact zone BC.

[0027] Furthermore, the sealing member 14 is oriented such that one of the two axial endpoints P1, P2 of the sealing interface SI is the "front" endpoint P1, at which the sealing face 27A is positioned at the farthest ( / deepest) position entering the oil side OS, and the other of the two axial endpoints P1, P2 is the "rear" endpoint P2, at which the sealing face 27A is positioned at a smaller distance (or a larger distance) from the oil side OS. In this configuration, the sealing lip 26 utilizes the contact angle α between the sealing surfaces 27A, 27B and the shaft 1 or seat 2. F α RThe contact pressure generated by the deformation of the sealing member 14 on the shaft 1 or seat 2 varies between a maximum value at one of the two axial endpoints P1 or P2 (preferably the front end P1) and a minimum value at the other of the two axial endpoints P2 or P1 (preferably the rear end P2). Under the varying contact pressure, the inclined sealing member 14 provides a "pumping effect," thereby helping to prevent fluid leakage from the oil side OS of the sealing assembly 10 out of the sealing lip 26 by "pushing" the fluid away from the lip 26, and in some applications, circulating the fluid back towards the lubricated device (such as a bearing). The basic structure and function have been described above; these and other elements of the sealing assembly 10 are described in more detail below.

[0028] Reference Figures 1 to 9 In some of the configurations described above, the sealing member 14 is formed with a conventional circular cylindrical body, the cylindrical body having a centerline CL with the sealing surface. S The centerline CL of the coaxial body B Furthermore, the sealing assembly 10 also includes a coupler 18. The coupler 18 is configured to connect the sealing member 14 to the housing 12 or the housing 12 to the seat 1, such that when the sealing assembly 10 is mounted about the shaft 1, the sealing member 14 is positioned with respect to its centerline CL. B and the centerline CL of the sealing surface 15 S Relative to central axis A C Positioning can be done in a cross or skewed manner. Furthermore, as described in detail below, the connector 18 can be integrally formed with the housing 12, or it can be provided by a discrete component attached to the housing 12.

[0029] Now refer to Figures 1 to 4In the first configuration, the housing 12 is connected to the seat 2, and the sealing member 14 is configured to seal radially inward against the outer surface 1a of the shaft. Specifically, the axial portion 20 of the housing is arranged against the inner surface 2a of the seat, and the connecting member 18 is formed as a radial flange 22 integral with the axial portion 20, and includes an outer radial portion 30, a central axial portion 32, and an inner radial portion 34. The outer radial portion 30 extends inward from the axial end 20a of the axial portion 20 of the housing and has a radially outer end 30a and a radially inner end 30b. The central axial portion 32 of the flange 22 has a first end 32a and an opposing second axial end 32b, the first end 32a being integrally formed with the inner end 30b of the outer radial portion 30, and the axial portion 32 extending axially inward toward the opposing end 20b of the axial portion 20 of the housing. Furthermore, the inner radial portion 34 of the flange extends inward from the second axial end 32b of the central axial portion 32 and has a radially outer end 34a and an inner end 34b, the inner end 34b defining a circular hole 35 with a centerline 37 (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown). The inner end 24a of the body 24 of the sealing member is connected to the inner radial portion 34 of the flange 22, and is preferably molded to the inner radial portion 34 of the flange 22.

[0030] like Figure 4 As shown, the central axial portion 32 of the flange 22 has an axial length L defined between the first end 32a and the second end 32b. F The axial length L of the axial portion 32 of the flange F The maximum value L at the first corner position F1 of the centerline 13 about the housing 12 FG The minimum value L is located at the second corner position F2 about the centerline 13 of the shell. FL The second angular position F2 is approximately 180° apart from the first angular position F1. Thus, when the sealing assembly 10 is arranged around axis 1, the inner radial portion 34 of the flange 22 and the inner end portion 24a of the sealing body 24 are both arranged within the inclined plane AP1, with the central axis A... C It extends not perpendicular to the inclined plane AP1. Therefore, it has a varying axial length L. F The structure of the central axial portion 32 and the inclined inner radial portion 34 of the flange 22 of the housing provides an integrated coupling 18, which positions the sealing member 14 in the desired angular orientation as described above.

[0031] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6In the second configuration, the housing 12 can be arranged on the shaft 1, and the sealing member 14 is configured to seal radially outward against the inner surface 2a of the seat. This sealing assembly 10 is particularly suitable for wheel end assemblies, in which the seat 2 is a rotatable outer hub (not depicted) and the shaft 1 is positioned relative to the central axis A. C Fixed. In this application, the axial portion 20 of the housing has a circumferential inner surface 21B defining a central bore 23 that receives the shaft 1, and the coupling 18 is again formed as a radial flange 22 integral with the axial portion 20 of the housing 12. The radial flange 22 includes an inner radial portion 40, a central axial portion 42, and an outer radial portion 44. The inner radial portion 40 extends outward from the axial end 20a of the axial portion 20 of the housing and has a radially inner end 40a and a radially outer end 40b. The central axial portion 42 of the flange 22 has a first axial end 42a and an opposing second axial end 42b, extending axially toward the opposing end 20b of the axial portion 20 of the housing and having a varying length L. F (As discussed below), the first axial end portion 42a is integrally formed with the outer end portion 40b of the inner radial portion 40.

[0032] Furthermore, the outer radial portion 44 of the flange is generally S-shaped and extends outward from the second axial end 42b of the central axial portion 42 at an inclination relative to the axis 13 of the housing, and has a radially inner end 44a and an outer end 44b. Specifically, the outer radial portion 44 of the flange has: a first radial segment 45a extending radially from the central axial portion 42 and providing an inner end 44a; an axial segment 45b; and a second radial segment 45c extending outward from the central segment 45b and providing an outer end 44b. Furthermore, the axially inner end 24a of the body 24 of the sealing member is connected to the outer radial portion 44 of the flange 22, and is preferably formed to the outer radial portion 44 of the flange 22.

[0033] like Figure 6 As shown, the central axial portion 42 of the flange 22 has an axial length L defined between the first end 42a and the second end 42b. F The axial length L of the axial portion 42 of the flange. F The maximum value L at the first corner position F1 of the centerline 13 about the housing 12 FG The minimum value L is located at the second corner position F2 about the centerline 13 of the shell. FL The second angular position F2 is spaced approximately 180 degrees from the first angular position F1. Thus, when the sealing assembly 10 is arranged about axis 1, at least the second radial segment 45c of the outer radial portion 44 of the flange 22 and the inner end portion 24a of the sealing body 24 are arranged within the inclined plane AP2, with the central axis A...C It extends not perpendicular to the inclined plane AP2. Therefore, it has a varying axial length L. F The structure of the central axial portion 42 and the inclined outer radial portion 44 of the flange 22 of the housing provides an integrated coupling 18, which positions the sealing member 14 at the desired angular orientation as described above.

[0034] Now refer to Figures 7 to 9 In the third configuration, the connector 18 is formed as a separate component configured to connect the housing 12 to the seat 2 and position the sealing member 14 in the angular orientation described above. Specifically, the connector 18 includes an annular body 50 having a centerline 51, a circular cylindrical outer circumferential surface 52A, and a circular cylindrical inner surface 52B. When the sealing assembly 10 is mounted about the shaft 1, the centerline 51 is aligned with the central axis A. C Collinear. The outer circumferential surface 52A of the connector 18 can engage (preferably frictionally) with the inner surface 2a of the seat to axially hold the connector 18 and the sealing assembly 10 within the seat 2, centered on the centerline 51 of the body. Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface 52B of the connector 18 defines a circular hole 54, centered on an axis 55 that intersects or deviates from the centerline 51 of the body.

[0035] In this configuration, when the housing 12 of the sealing assembly 10 is arranged within the hole 54 of the annular body 50, the coupling 18 is configured to position the housing 12 and the sealing member 14 such that the centerline CL of the sealing surface 15 is aligned. S The axis 55 of the hole in the connecting piece is collinear with the axis of the hole. Thus, the centerline CL of the sealing surface... S This also causes it to intersect or deviate from the centerline 51 of the main body of the connecting component, so when the sealing assembly 10 is installed around the shaft 1, it is also relative to the central axis A. C Crossing or skewing. Preferably, the annular body 50 of the third-constructed connector 18 includes a radially outer cylindrical portion 56 and a radially inner cylindrical portion 58, the radially inner cylindrical portion 58 being arranged within and connected to the outer cylindrical portion 56.

[0036] Specifically, the outer cylindrical portion 56 has opposing axial ends 56a, 56b and an outer surface 56c providing an outer surface 52A for the connection. Each axial end 56a, 56b of the outer portion 56 has radial end surfaces 57A, 57B, respectively, which are arranged in separate planes OCP1, OCP2. The two end surfaces 57A, 57B are substantially parallel to each other, and the centerline 51 of the body extends at least substantially perpendicular to each of the two planes OCP1 and OCP2.

[0037] Furthermore, the inner cylindrical portion 58 is preferably integrally formed with the outer cylindrical portion 56, and has opposing axial ends 58a, 58b and a circumferential inner surface 52B providing a connecting member and a circumferential inner surface 58c providing a hole 54. Each axial end 58a, 58b of the inner portion 58 has radial end surfaces 59A, 59B, respectively, which are arranged in separate planes ICP1, ICP2. The two end surfaces 59A, 59B of the inner portion 58 of the body are parallel to each other, and the centerline 51 of the body does not extend perpendicularly to each of the two planes ICP1, ICP2, such that the end surfaces 59A, 59B are each tilted or inclined relative to the end surfaces 57A, 57B of the outer portion 56 of the body.

[0038] The assembly of the sealing housing 12 (and the attached sealing member 14) into the hole 54 of the connector is completed by positioning one axial end 20a or 20b of the axial portion 20 of the housing in alignment with one of the end surfaces 59B or 59A of the inner cylindrical portion 58, respectively. Then, the housing 12 is inserted into the hole 54 such that the circular outer circumferential surface 21 of the housing 12 slides against the circular inner circumferential surface 52B of the body 50 of the connector and shifts along the axis 55 of the hole until it is fully positioned within the hole. After this, the centerline CL of the sealing surface 15... S At least parallel to the axis 55 of the hole and preferably collinear with the axis 55 of the hole, such that the sealing surface 15 and the sealing member 14 are relative to the central axis A. C Oriented in the desired angle of relationship (as described above).

[0039] Although the above-described structure provides a separate coupling 18 for positioning the standard seal in the desired tilt orientation, as an alternative, the annular body 50 can be formed in any other suitable manner to provide: a circumferential outer surface 52A that engages with the inner surface 2a of the seat and is centered on axis A. C Centered on; and with the inner circumferential surface 52B, which can engage with the sealing housing 12 and relative to the central axis A C The axis 55 is the center, which is either intersecting or skewed. Alternatively, the individual connector 18 can be formed as a generally annular inner body (not shown) having a cylindrical inner circumferential surface that can be arranged about axis 1 and an inclined outer circumferential surface for receiving a standard inner shell member having a standard outwardly sealing circular lip that can engage with the inner surface 2a of the seat to form an elliptical sealing interface SI.

[0040] Now refer to Figures 10 to 11In the fourth configuration, the sealing assembly 10 is formed without any connecting pieces or components for positioning the conventional standard sealing member 14 in a desired inclined orientation, but instead includes a sealing member 14 having a "non-conventional" cantilevered annular body 60 with an inclined outer end portion 60a having an inclined circular lip 62 providing a sealing surface 15 (as described above). More specifically, the housing 12 includes an axial portion 20 having opposing axial ends 20a, 20b, and a radial flange 22 extending radially inward (as depicted) or outward from the axial portion 20. The radial flange 22 is circumferentially uniform or symmetrical about the centerline 13 of the housing and includes an inner end portion 22a for receiving the sealing member 14. The annular body 60 of the sealing member has a centerline 61 and includes an axial inner end 60b, an opposing outer end 60a, and a central portion 60c. The axial inner end 60b connects to the inner end 22a of the flange portion 22 of the housing, and the outer end 60a provides a sealing surface 15. The axial inner end 60b of the body is circular and is arranged in a plane (not depicted) substantially perpendicular to any plane containing the centerline 61 of the body, and therefore also perpendicular to the central axis A when mounted on the shaft 1. C .

[0041] Furthermore, the central portion 60c of the main body extends axially between the inner end 60b and the outer end 60a, and has an axial length BL, the axial length BL being at its maximum value at a first angular position PA1 about the centerline 61 of the main body. G The minimum value BL at the second corner position PA2 about the center line L The second angular position PA2 is spaced 180° from the first angular position PA1. In the case of the central portion 61c with this varying axial length BL, the outer end portion 60a is positioned in an inclined orientation such that the circular sealing lip 62 is arranged within the inclined plane AP3, and thus the sealing surface 15 is arranged within the inclined plane AP3, with the sealing surface 15 having a centerline CL perpendicular to the plane AP3. S The centerline 61 of the main body does not extend perpendicularly to the inclined plane AP3, such that when the sealing assembly 10 is arranged about axis 1, the central axis A... C Similarly, it is not perpendicular to plane AP3. Therefore, the sealing surface 15 is positioned in an inclined orientation (i.e., the centerline CL of the sealing surface). S With central axis A C (Oblique or crossed) to provide an elliptical sealing interface SI when engaging with the outer surface 1a (as depicted) of the shaft or the inner surface 2a (not depicted) of the seat, as described in detail above.

[0042] Specific reference Figure 12Although the connecting member 18 is used as described above relative to the central axis A C A preferred component 16 for positioning the sealing member 14, however, another feasible structure or device for tilting the sealing member 14 is to provide an inclined hole 70 in the seat 2. The inclined hole 70 is defined by a circumferential inner surface 72 and has a centerline 74, which is relative to the central axis A of any shaft 1 mounted in the hole 70. C Inclined (i.e., skewed or crossed). Thus, any conventional sealing assembly 10 installed within the bore 70 will position the sealing member 14 in an inclined orientation as described in detail above.

[0043] Representative, non-limiting examples of the invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. This detailed description is intended only to teach those skilled in the art further details of the preferred aspects for practicing these teachings, and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, each of the additional features and teachings disclosed above may be used alone or in combination with other features and teachings to provide an improved sealing assembly.

[0044] Furthermore, the combinations of features and steps disclosed in the detailed description above may not be necessary for practicing the invention in the broadest sense, but are merely taught to specifically describe representative examples of the invention. Moreover, the various features of the above representative examples, as well as the various independent and dependent claims below, can be combined in ways not specifically and explicitly enumerated to provide other useful embodiments of this teaching.

[0045] All features disclosed in the specification and / or claims are intended to be disclosed separately and independently of each other for the purposes of the original written disclosure and for the purpose of limiting the claimed subject matter, and are unrelated to the combination of features in the embodiments and / or claims. Furthermore, all indications of value ranges or entity groups are intended to disclose every possible intermediate value or intermediate entity for the purposes of the original written disclosure and for the purpose of limiting the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft or the seat being rotatable about a central axis extending through the shaft, the shaft having a circumferential outer surface and the seat having a circumferential inner surface, the sealing assembly comprising: An annular housing that can be connected to the seat or the shaft; as well as An annular sealing member, coupled to the housing, has a circular sealing surface with a centerline, the sealing surface capable of engaging with the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the seat, such that when the sealing assembly is mounted about the shaft, the centerline of the sealing surface is inclined or deflected relative to the central axis. The sealing surface engages the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the seat, thereby defining a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis; the sealing interface has two axial endpoints that are circumferentially spaced about 180 degrees about the central axis and axially spaced by an axial distance along the central axis. The annular sealing member includes an annular lip that provides the sealing surface and has a front and a rear end that intersect at the sealing surface. The annular lip engages the shaft or the seat using contact pressure that varies between a maximum value at one of the two axial endpoints and a minimum value at the other of the two axial endpoints.

2. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The centerline of the sealing surface is defined at an angle relative to the central axis, the angle having a value of at least one degree.

3. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axial endpoint defines a contact band on the outer surface of the shaft or a contact band on the inner surface of the seat in the axial direction, and the width of the contact band is equal to the axial distance.

4. The sealing assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The width of the contact strip is at least one millimeter.

5. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the following: The sealing member has a centerline coaxial with the centerline of the sealing surface, and the sealing assembly further includes a coupling configured to connect the sealing member to the housing or the housing to the seat, such that when the sealing assembly is mounted about the axis, the sealing member is positioned such that the centerline of the sealing surface intersects or is oblique to the central axis; and The sealing member has an inner end portion connected to the housing, an outer end portion providing the sealing surface, and a central portion extending between the inner end portion and the outer end portion and having an axial length, the axial length of the central portion varying from a maximum value at a first angular position about the centerline to a minimum value at a second angular position about the centerline, wherein the second angular position is spaced 180 degrees from the first angular position, such that when the sealing assembly is arranged about the axis, the sealing surface is arranged in an inclined plane, and the central axis does not extend perpendicular to the inclined plane.

6. The sealing assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connector is integrally formed with the housing, or the connector is a separate component attached to the housing.

7. The sealing assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The housing has an outer axial portion, and the connecting member is formed as an integral flange of the housing, and includes: The outer radial portion extends inward from the axial portion of the housing and has an inner end; The central axial portion has a first axial end and an opposing second axial end, the first axial end being integrally formed with the inner end of the outer radial portion; and The inner radial portion extends inward from the second axial end of the central portion and has an inner end that defines a circular hole, the inner end of the sealing member being connected to the inner radial portion; The flange has a central axial portion with an axial length between the first axial end and the second axial end, the axial length varying from a maximum value at a first angular position about the centerline to a minimum value at a second angular position about the centerline, wherein the second angular position is spaced 180 degrees from the first angular position, such that when the sealing assembly is arranged about the axis, the inner radial portion of the flange and the inner end of the sealing member are both arranged in an inclined plane, and the central axis does not extend perpendicular to the inclined plane.

8. The sealing assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The housing has an inner axial portion that can be arranged on the shaft, and the connecting member is formed as an integral flange of the housing, and includes: The inner radial portion extends outward from the axial portion of the housing and has an outer end; The central axial portion has a first axial end and an opposing second axial end, the first axial end being integrally formed with the outer end of the inner radial portion; and The outer radial portion extends outward from the second axial end of the central portion and has a rounded outer end, the inner end of the sealing member being connected to the outer radial portion; The flange has a central axial portion having an axial length between the first axial end and the second axial end, the axial length varying from a maximum value at a first angular position about the centerline to a minimum value at a second angular position about the centerline, wherein the second angular position is spaced 180 degrees from the first angular position, such that when the sealing assembly is arranged about the axis, at least a portion of the outer radial portion of the flange and the inner end of the sealing member are each arranged in an inclined plane, the central axis extending not perpendicular to the inclined plane.

9. The sealing assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connector includes an annular body having: a centerline that is collinear with the central axis when the sealing assembly is mounted about the shaft; a circular cylindrical outer circumferential surface capable of engaging with the inner surface of the seat and centered on the centerline of the body; and a circular cylindrical inner circumferential surface defining a hole and centered on an axis that intersects or deviates from the centerline of the body, wherein the housing is disposed within the hole of the annular body such that the centerline of the sealing member is collinear with the axis of the hole.

10. The sealing assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The annular body of the connector includes: A radially outer cylindrical portion having opposing axial ends, each axial end having a radial end surface arranged in a separate plane, the two end surfaces being parallel, and the centerline of the body being perpendicular to each extension of the two planes; and A radially inner cylindrical portion is arranged within and connected to the outer cylindrical portion. The inner cylindrical portion has opposing axial ends, each axial end of the inner cylindrical portion having a radial end surface arranged in a separate plane. The two end surfaces of the inner cylindrical portion are parallel, and the centerline of the body extends not perpendicular to each plane containing one of the end surfaces of the inner cylindrical portion.

11. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The annular sealing member has: an inner end portion connected to the housing; an opposing free outer end portion; and an inner wedge-shaped portion adjacent to the free outer end portion and providing the sealing surface.

12. A sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft being rotatable about a central axis, the sealing assembly comprising: The outer annular housing can be connected to the seat; An inner annular sealing member has a centerline and an inner circumferential sealing surface centered on the centerline; as well as Components for positioning the sealing member such that, when the sealing assembly is mounted about the shaft, the centerline of the sealing member intersects or deviates relative to the central axis. The sealing surface engages the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the seat, thereby defining a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis; the sealing interface has two axial endpoints that are circumferentially spaced about 180 degrees about the central axis and axially spaced by an axial distance along the central axis. The inner annular sealing member includes an annular lip that provides the sealing surface and has a front and a rear end that intersect at the sealing surface. The annular lip engages the shaft or the seat using contact pressure that varies between a maximum value at one of the two axial endpoints and a minimum value at the other of the two axial endpoints.

13. The sealing assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The components used to position the sealing member include one of the following: The connecting member is configured to connect the sealing member to the housing or the housing to the seat; An angled hole extends through the seat.

14. A sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft or the seat being rotatable about a central axis extending through the shaft, the sealing assembly comprising: An annular housing that can be connected to the seat or the shaft; An annular sealing member having a centerline and a circular sealing surface centered on the centerline; as well as The connecting member is configured to connect the sealing member to the housing or the housing to the seat, such that when the sealing assembly is mounted about the axis, the sealing member is positioned such that its centerline intersects or is oblique to the central axis. The sealing surface engages the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the seat, thereby defining a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis; the sealing interface has two axial endpoints that are circumferentially spaced about 180 degrees about the central axis and axially spaced by an axial distance along the central axis. The annular sealing member includes an annular lip that provides the sealing surface and has a front and a rear end that intersect at the sealing surface. The annular lip engages the shaft or the seat using contact pressure that varies between a maximum value at one of the two axial endpoints and a minimum value at the other of the two axial endpoints.

15. The sealing assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The centerline of the sealing surface is defined at an angle relative to the central axis, the angle having a value of at least one degree.

16. The sealing assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The sealing surface engages the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the seat to define a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis. The sealing interface has two axial endpoints that are circumferentially spaced about 180 degrees about the central axis and axially spaced by an axial distance along the central axis. The axial endpoints axially define a contact band on the outer surface of the shaft or a contact band on the inner surface of the seat, the width of which is equal to the axial distance.

17. A sealing assembly for sealing an annular space between a shaft and a seat, the shaft or the seat being rotatable about a central axis extending through the shaft, the sealing assembly comprising: An annular housing that can be connected to the seat or the shaft; as well as An annular sealing member has a centerline and has an axially inner end connected to the housing, an axially outer end providing a circular sealing surface, and a central portion extending between the axially inner end and the axially outer end and having an axial length, the axial length of the central portion varying from a maximum value at a first angular position about the centerline to a minimum value at a second angular position about the centerline, wherein the second angular position is spaced 180 degrees from the first angular position, such that when the sealing assembly is arranged about the axis, the sealing surface is arranged in an inclined plane, and the central axis does not extend perpendicular to the inclined plane; The sealing surface engages with the outer surface of the shaft or the inner surface of the seat, thereby defining a generally elliptical sealing interface extending circumferentially about the central axis, the sealing interface having two axial endpoints. The annular sealing member includes an annular lip that provides the sealing surface and has a front and a rear end that intersect at the sealing surface. The annular lip engages the shaft or the seat using contact pressure that varies between a maximum value at one of the two axial endpoints and a minimum value at the other of the two axial endpoints.

18. The sealing assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that, The two axial endpoints are circumferentially spaced about 180 degrees around the central axis and axially spaced by an axial distance along the central axis. The axial endpoints define a contact band on the outer surface of the shaft or a contact band on the inner surface of the seat in the axial direction. The width of the contact band is equal to the axial distance.

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