Sealing device and method for manufacturing sealing device

Abstract

A sealing device (10) is provided for sealing an internal space (72) between two components (50, 52, 70) rotatably mounted relative to each other, particularly for sealing wheel bearings. The sealing device (10) includes a first support element (12) connectable to a first component (70) and a second support element (14) connectable to a second component (50, 52). A sealing element (16) is formed on at least one of the support elements (12, 14) and abuts against the corresponding other support element (12, 14) at at least one contact point (45, 46). At least one opening (13) is provided in the first support element (12) into which a ventilation element (30) is inserted. A receiving space (38) is provided formed on the ventilation element (30), defined by a collar (39) on the base (32) of the ventilation element (30), wherein a breathable membrane (31) or a porous body (47) is arranged in the receiving space (38).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing device for axles or wheel bearings of motor vehicles, in particular for axle bearings of motor vehicles, according to the preamble of the independent claim, and a method for manufacturing such a sealing device. Background Technology

[0002] Sealing devices for rolling bearings are suitable for many different applications to rotatably support rotating components (especially shafts) and prevent dirt or liquids from penetrating into the bearing area. Furthermore, sealing devices for axles on which rotating components are rotatably mounted are known. Bearing arrangements for components susceptible to harsh environments present a particular challenge, as dirt or liquids entering these bearing arrangements can lead to rolling bearing damage and subsequent failures.

[0003] For these applications, such as wheel bearings in motor vehicles, it is known to properly seal rolling bearings with a sealing device in front of the bearing, including a labyrinth seal and at least one sliding sealing lip, to prevent dirt and / or liquids from entering the internal region of the wheel bearing. Because the internal region of the rolling bearing is isolated from the environment by the seal, pressure balance between the internal region and the environment is impossible or may only be insufficient. This increases friction within the bearing, leading to further increases in temperature and pressure within the internal region of the rolling bearing.

[0004] According to existing technology, cassette seals are known as sealing systems for sealing wheel bearings. Here, a fixed housing seals relative to a rotating shaft, or a rotating housing seals relative to a fixed axle. Since the axle or wheel bearing may not have a suitable sealing surface for shaft sealing due to manufacturing or cost reasons, the sealing system in this cassette seal has a sealing surface that is part of the sealing system, unlike shaft seals.

[0005] The primary function of a sealing device is to protect the interior from external influences, such as the ingress of dirt and water. On the other hand, the sealing device also prevents lubricant from escaping from the rolling bearing. Negative pressure inside the wheel bearing forces the sealing lip to press more forcefully against the sealing surface. Similarly, greater external pressure increases the contact pressure of the sealing lip. In both cases, this increases the sealing effect, but it prevents pressure equalization. High radial preload increases friction between the sealing lip and the sealing surface, which also leads to undesirable higher wear and higher operating temperatures. The use of venting devices, such as diaphragms, vent holes, or notches in the sealing lip contact area, for pressure compensation in wheel bearings is known.

[0006] DE102013212073A1 describes a wheel bearing in which a wheel of a motor vehicle can be mounted on a wheel carrier, rotatably mounted relative to the motor vehicle via a double-row rolling bearing unit. The double-row rolling bearing is arranged on the hub of the wheel bearing, and includes a cavity between the first and second rows of rolling elements. Temperature fluctuations (e.g., due to heat generated during the operation of the wheel bearing) can cause a negative pressure condition in this cavity. In the case of a sealed rolling bearing, this negative pressure can lead to a significant increase in the coefficient of friction at the seal, and thus increase wear and tear on the motor vehicle. Furthermore, higher friction can cause the seals to wear out more quickly, allowing water to enter the rolling bearing and ultimately leading to bearing failure.

[0007] DE102015220367 discloses a sealed rolling bearing. This rolling bearing includes rolling elements guided within an internal bearing space between an outer bearing ring and an inner bearing ring, wherein the bearing rings are rotatable relative to each other. To seal the internal bearing space, the bearing rings axially enclose sealing elements associated with them, the resilient sealing lips of which are supported on the opposing bearing rings in an indirect or direct sealing manner. Furthermore, the rolling bearing includes a venting device for balancing the internal bearing pressure, wherein at least one slotted valve is formed in each sealing lip of the sealing element as a venting device. The slotted valve is formed by grooves introduced into the sealing lips of the sealing element in a cross-shaped configuration.

[0008] DE102018121469A1 discloses a sealing device for sealing wheel bearings of motor vehicles. The sealing device includes a reinforcing plate connected to one of two bearing components, wherein an elastic element is provided on the reinforcing plate. The elastic element includes at least one sealing lip. A cavity is formed between a first bearing component and a second bearing component of the sealing device, the cavity being defined by means of the reinforcing plate and / or the elastic element. The sealing device includes a venting device for balancing the pressure in the cavity. For this purpose, an opening is provided on the reinforcing plate, in which a rivet carrying a ventilation membrane is fixed.

[0009] However, the drawbacks of known solutions are that the sealing elements are subject to corresponding wear or require complex retention structures, which makes the sealing devices complex and expensive, or the ventilation elements are not optimally secured. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The objective of this invention is to provide a sealing element that can provide a functionally reliable seal for rolling bearings and can compensate for pressure between the internal region of the rolling bearing and the environment.

[0011] According to the invention, this task is accomplished by a sealing device for sealing the internal space between two components rotatably mounted relative to each other, particularly for sealing wheel bearings. The sealing device includes a first support element connectable to a first component and a second support element connectable to a second component. A sealing element is formed on at least one of the support elements and abuts against the corresponding other support element at at least one contact point. At least one opening is incorporated into the first support element, into which a ventilation element is inserted.

[0012] A receiving space is provided formed on the ventilation element, defined by a collar on the base or housing of the ventilation element, wherein a breathable membrane or porous body is arranged in the receiving space. Ventilation of the interior space is achieved through an opening in the first supporting element. In this case, the ventilation element is arranged in the first supporting element such that the ventilation element completely covers the opening in the first supporting element and prevents further penetration of moisture or dirt into the interior space in an operationally reliable manner.

[0013] Due to the porosity of the membrane or porous body, limited gas exchange between the environment and the internal space is possible, but the porous body inhibits the passage of liquid or contaminant particles. Preferably, the porous body is formed of a breathable polymer, especially breathable polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Alternatively, the breathable body can be formed as a metal foam or other breathable foam. Compared to the prior art, the arrangement of the porous body in the ventilation element allows for simplified assembly of the sealing device because the porous body or membrane is not attached to one of the carrier elements, but is inserted into the ventilation element. This enables simple automated assembly, in which the porous body or membrane is inserted into the ventilation element and the ventilation element is inserted into an opening in the carrier element. This prevents the porous component or membrane from moving during manufacturing and causing leakage at the sealing device.

[0014] Advantageous further developments and improvements to the sealing device according to the invention are provided by the features set forth in the dependent claims.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one web is formed on the base or housing of the ventilation element, advantageously two webs, which are received in an opening of a first support element, wherein the at least two webs are optionally separated from each other by recesses. By means of one or more flexible webs, the base can be inserted particularly easily into the opening of the first support element and then connected to it.

[0016] Particularly preferred is that a latching lug is formed on one end portion of one or more webs, wherein the latching lug connects the ventilation element to the first support element in a form-fit manner. The latching lug allows the ventilation element to be secured in an opening in the first support element in a simple manner.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the ventilation element, a receiving space enclosed by a cover is provided on the side opposite to the first supporting element. The cover allows for a simple way to prevent the membrane from falling out of the receiving space. Preferably, the cover includes a central opening and is connected to the base of the ventilation element in a form-fit, material-fit, or force-fit manner. In this embodiment, the housing includes the base and the cover.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a membrane or porous body is provided that is locked to the material of the ventilation element. By means of the material locking connection between the membrane or porous body and the substrate of the ventilation element, reliable operational fixation of the membrane can be achieved. Here, the simple geometry of the substrate facilitates assembly.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a contact surface is provided formed on the substrate or housing of the ventilation element, against which the membrane or porous body abuts. This contact surface allows for the formation of a smooth sealing profile between the membrane and the substrate of the ventilation element. This improves the sealing effect within the ventilation element.

[0020] Particularly preferred is that at least one dome is formed on the contact surface. Preferably, two or three domes are formed to ensure uniform contact between the membrane or porous body. The domes increase the surface pressure acting on the membrane. Therefore, the seal between the contact surface in the substrate and the membrane can be improved.

[0021] In another preferred embodiment of the ventilation element, a collar including a deformable region is provided, the deformable region being shaped to form a retaining portion for the membrane or porous body. In this way, the membrane or porous body can be easily and form-fittedly secured within the receiving space of the ventilation element.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the sealing device, a protrusion is provided on the sealing element that extends beyond the end face of the first supporting element, wherein the collar of the ventilation element is surrounded in the protrusion or at least partially covered by the protrusion. By means of the covering or surrounding of the ventilation element, centrifugal forces acting on the ventilation element can be absorbed, and the seal in the radial direction can be improved. Therefore, the sealing effect of the sealing element can be improved.

[0023] Preferably, a collar is formed on the protrusion, the collar including an undercut for form-fitting placement of the ventilation element. Further form-fitting connection between the sealing element and the ventilation element can be achieved by means of the undercut on the collar, thereby enabling particularly stable fixation and sealing of the ventilation element within the first carrier element.

[0024] In a further improvement of the invention, a release groove is provided on the sealing element formed in the receiving area for the ventilation element. This makes it possible to reduce the force when the ventilation element is pressed into the first support element and to reduce the mechanical load on the connection between the ventilation element and the first support element.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, at least one opening is provided as a drilled hole, or punched or cut into the first support element. During the manufacture of the first support element, one or more holes can be easily and inexpensively manufactured in the first support element. In a preferred manufacture of the first support element as a stamped and bent component, at least one opening can be easily and inexpensively introduced into the first support element by means of a stamping or precision blanking process. Preferably, a plurality of openings are provided, which are preferably evenly distributed over the entire circumference of the support element, and each opening can be closed by a ventilation element.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one opening is formed in a portion of the first support element extending substantially perpendicular to the surface of the component. The two components, capable of rotating relative to each other, comprise two parallel surfaces in cross-section, and a rolling bearing can be arranged between these parallel surfaces to allow the first component to rotate relative to the second component. The portion extending in a substantially vertical direction should be understood as extending perpendicular to the two parallel surfaces in cross-section and across the space between the first and second components. The opening in the vertical portion of the first support element facilitates ventilation of the internal space particularly easily.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, a porous disc is proposed, preferably designed as a disc made of a breathable polymer material, particularly breathable, open-cell polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Because the receiving space within the ventilation element is designed as an annular space, the disc can be arranged particularly easily within this space. By being arranged within the receiving space, the disc is exceptionally well protected during assembly and operation, preventing damage to the disc and increasing the durability of the sealing device.

[0028] Due to its hydrophobic properties, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is particularly suitable for preventing water from entering internal spaces protected by sealing devices and / or preventing lubricants from escaping from internal spaces. Furthermore, due to its material properties, PTFE is particularly suitable for manufacturing porous, gas-permeable structures using a relatively simple and cost-effective sintering process.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment of the sealing device, a sealing gap is formed between the first and second bearing elements. The sealing gap on the inlet side prevents dirt or liquid from entering the bearing assembly. This prevents damage to the ventilation elements or impairment of their function.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the sealing device, a first carrier element and / or a second carrier element are provided, which are at least partially coated with a sealing material. By coating the carrier elements, a seal can be formed particularly simply and cost-effectively. In addition to material bonding, a form-fit connection can also be formed, thereby allowing the sealing element to be formed on the corresponding carrier element in a particularly stable manner.

[0031] Preferably, the sealing lip is formed on the first carrier element or on a sealing element connected to the first carrier element, defining a sealing space between the first carrier element and the second carrier element. The sealing lip can be used to easily prevent liquids or contaminants from penetrating into the internal area of ​​the sealing device.

[0032] Particularly preferred is that the sealing lip abuts against the opposing surface of a portion of the second carrier element that extends substantially parallel to the surfaces of the two components. One or more sealing lips may be formed between the first and second carrier elements. Preferably, the sealing lip has one or more protective lips in front of it, which prevent dirt or splashed water from entering the sealing area in the axial direction, and which abut against a contact point on the vertical portion of the second carrier element.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, a protective lip is advantageously provided, formed on the first carrier element or on the sealing material connected to the first carrier element, the lip being positioned at a contact point on a portion of the second carrier element extending perpendicular to the surface of the component. Furthermore, a second protective lip is provided, abutting against a portion of the second carrier element extending parallel to the surface of the second component or against a shaft, and protecting the sealing area in the radial direction.

[0034] In an advantageous embodiment of the sealing device, an opening in the first carrier element fluidly connects the internal space to one of the sealed spaces. In this case, the first sealed space is defined by the first carrier element, the second carrier element, and the first sealing lip. Furthermore, the second sealed space is defined by the first protective lip, the sealing lip, and the second carrier element. Thus, the first sealed space is connected to the environment via a sealing gap, allowing for simple gas exchange between the first sealed space and the environment. The opening connects the first sealed space to the sealed internal space, but the opening is protected by the sealing gap from infiltration contamination. Therefore, the operational reliability and lifespan of the sealing device can be increased.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the sealing device, the first carrier element is designed to be free of sealing material in the opening region. It is advantageous that the first carrier element is not covered with sealing material in this region in order to facilitate easy insertion of the opening into the first carrier element. Furthermore, it is also advantageous in operation that this region is free of sealing material in order to allow the ventilation element to engage stably in the opening of the first carrier element.

[0036] According to the present invention, a method for manufacturing a sealing device according to the invention is provided, wherein an opening is formed in a first supporting element, and a ventilation element is inserted into the opening to achieve pressure balance between the internal space sealed by the sealing device and the environment. This method enables the sealing device to be manufactured in a simple manner, allowing pressure balance to be achieved between the sealed internal space and the environment. The manufacturing process is simplified because the ventilation element can be optionally purchased and then only needs to be inserted, for example, by clamping, at the manufacturer of the sealing device. Alternatively, the ventilation element can also be manufactured by the manufacturer of the sealing device.

[0037] In an advantageous embodiment of this process, at least one opening is formed in the first support element by means of a punching or cutting process. Preferably, since the first support element is manufactured as a stamped bend, the opening can be introduced substantially cost-neutrally during the manufacture of the first support element, which enables particularly cost-effective manufacturing.

[0038] Alternatively, it is advantageously proposed that at least one opening be introduced into the second carrier element by means of a drilling, milling, or etching process. In this case, the opening is formed in the second carrier element before the sealing element is covered by the second carrier element or before the sealing element is applied to the carrier element in an injection molding or vulcanization process. In an advantageous embodiment of this process, it is proposed that a recess be formed in the edge region around the opening in the carrier element during the application of the sealing element. This allows the latching hook of the ventilation element to latch onto the material of the carrier element, which is dimensionally stable, facilitates latching, and makes the connection between the ventilation element and the carrier element more stable compared to the sealing element.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of this method, it is envisioned that the membrane or porous body (especially a breathable disc) is connected to the substrate of the ventilation element by material bonding and / or form fitting. A permanent, stable, and reliable connection between the ventilation element and the membrane or porous body can be achieved through material bonding, particularly by bonding the membrane or porous body to the contact surface of the ventilation element. Additional form fitting through a shoulder on the porous body and / or the first support element enables an additional connection to fix the porous body in place.

[0040] The present invention will now be described with reference to the preferred embodiments in the accompanying drawings. Identical components or components having the same function are labeled with the same reference numerals in the various figures. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The following are shown:

[0042] Figure 1 An embodiment of a sealing device for sealing a shaft or axle, using a wheel bearing as an example, is shown;

[0043] Figure 2 An embodiment of the sealing device is shown in cross-sectional view;

[0044] Figure 3 A preferred embodiment of the ventilation element for such a sealing device is shown;

[0045] Figure 4 Another preferred embodiment of the ventilation element for this sealing device is shown;

[0046] Figure 5 Another preferred embodiment of the ventilation element for this sealing device is shown;

[0047] Figure 6 Another preferred embodiment of the ventilation element for this sealing device is shown;

[0048] Figure 7 Another preferred embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention is shown in cross-sectional view; and

[0049] Figure 8 Another preferred embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention is shown in cross-sectional view.

[0050] Figure 9 Another preferred embodiment of the sealing device according to the invention is shown in cross-sectional view. Detailed Implementation

[0051] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of an advantageous sealing device 10 for sealing an intermediate space 72 between two components 50, 52, and 70, the two components being rotatable relative to each other, particularly for wheel bearings. The sealing device 10 includes a first carrier element 12, which is connectable to the first component 70, particularly to a housing. The sealing device 10 also includes a second carrier element 14, which is connectable to the second components 50, 52 (particularly axle 50 or axle 52), wherein the first component 70 and the second components 50, 52 are rotatable relative to each other. The sealing device 10 seals the internal space 72 relative to the environment. Thus, a sealing gap 28 is formed between the first carrier element 12 and the second carrier element 14 in a simplified labyrinthine seal manner.

[0052] A first carrier element 12 supports a sealing element 16, which is preferably attached to the first carrier element 12 by a material-locking method, preferably by an injection molding process. A first protective lip 18 is formed on the sealing element 16, abutting at a contact point 46 against a portion 53 of the second carrier element 14, the portion extending substantially perpendicular to the surfaces of the first and second components 50, 52, 70. Furthermore, a sealing lip 20 is formed on the sealing element 16, abutting at a contact point 45 against an opposing surface 26 of the second carrier element 14, the opposing surface being parallel to the surfaces of the second components 50, 52.

[0053] The first support element 12, the second support element 14, and the first sealing lip 20 define a first sealing space 15, which is connected to the environment through a sealing gap 28 between the first support element 12 and the second support element 14, and achieves pressure balance between the first sealing space 15 and the environment. Furthermore, a second sealing space 17 is formed between the first protective lip 18, the second support element 14, and the sealing lip 20, which protects the sealing lip 20 and prevents dirt or liquid from further penetrating into the internal space 72.

[0054] Preferably, the first sealing element 16 is made of a polymer material, particularly an elastomer, and is material-fitted to the first carrier element 12. Furthermore, a trapping bag can be formed on the sealing element 16, which, when the components 50, 52, 70 rotate due to centrifugal force, traps dirt or liquid that has permeated into the first sealed space 15 through the sealing gap 28 and discharges it through the sealing gap 28. Additionally, a second protective lip 24 is formed on the sealing element 16, which protects the sealing lip 20 from lubricant escaping from the internal space 72 and abuts against the opposing surface 26 of the shaft 50, axle 52, or the second carrier element 14.

[0055] A rolling bearing 60 is disposed between a first component 70 and second components 50, 52 to allow relative rotation of the first component 70 relative to the second components 50, 52. The rolling bearing 60 includes an inner ring 62 that contacts the second components 50, 52 and an outer ring 64 that contacts the first component 70. A plurality of rolling elements 66 are disposed between the inner ring 62 and the outer ring 64 to allow low-friction rotation of the inner ring 62 relative to the outer ring 64.

[0056] Figure 2An example of a sealing device 10 according to the invention is shown, and the previous description is largely applicable to this example and will not be repeated here. Preferably, the sealing device 10 is designed as a box seal 11. The sealing device 10 includes a first support element 12 that can be connected to a first component 70. Another protective lip 24 is also formed on the first support element 12, which protects the sealing lip 20 from grease or oil escaping from the bearing. The sealing device 10 also includes a spring 22, by which the sealing device 10 can be preloaded into a container.

[0057] The first support element 12 includes a first portion abutting the surface of the first component 70 and a second portion 49 extending substantially perpendicularly thereto. At least one opening 13 is formed in the second portion 49 of the first support element 12. Preferably, the first support element 12 is designed as a sheet metal and manufactured as a stamped and bent component, wherein at least one opening 13 is introduced into the support element 12 during the stamping of the sheet metal component, and can be implemented in a substantially cost-neutral manner without additional manufacturing steps. Alternatively, at least one opening 13, in particular a hole, can also be subsequently introduced into the first support element 12 by drilling, milling, or etching.

[0058] A ventilation element 30 is inserted into the opening 13. The ventilation element 30 includes a base 32 on which a collar 39 is formed, defining a receiving space 38. A membrane 31 is disposed within the receiving space 38, enabling air exchange between the interior space 72 and the environment. The ventilation element also includes a plurality of webs 36, each end of which a latch hook 34 is formed to secure the ventilation element 30 in the opening 13. Furthermore, a cover 33 may be provided on the ventilation element 30 to secure the membrane 31 in the receiving space 38.

[0059] exist Figure 3 The diagram shows a ventilation element 30 for a sealing device 10 according to the invention. The ventilation element 30 includes a base 32 on which a plurality of resilient webs 36 are formed, the webs being separated from each other by recesses 35. A latching lug 34 is formed at the end of each web 36. The base 32 also surrounds a collar 39, which defines a receiving space 38 for a breathable membrane 31. A contact surface 37 is also formed on the base 32, against which the membrane 31 abuts. The base 32 can be closed by a cover 33 with a preferably centrally located opening 55 to secure the membrane 31 in the receiving space 38. Alternatively, a porous body 47, particularly a porous disc 48, can also be arranged in the receiving space 38 as an alternative to the membrane 31.

[0060] Figure 4 Another ventilation element for use in the sealing device 10 according to the invention is shown. Figure 3The structures shown are essentially the same. In this example, a deformable region 43 is provided on the collar 39, which forms a flange so that the membrane 31 or the porous body 47 is form-fittedly fixed in the receiving space 38. Furthermore, a dome 41 is formed on the contact surface 37, which receives the membrane 31 or the porous body 47 or penetrates into them to create a form fit. This allows for pre-stretching of the membrane 31 in the region of the dome 41, thereby improving the seal at these points.

[0061] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the ventilation element 30 for the advantageous sealing device 10 is shown. (Compared to...) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The structures shown are essentially the same. In this embodiment, the membrane 31 is connected to the contact surface 37 on the substrate 32 of the ventilation element 30 by means of material bonding. For this purpose, the dome 41 is melted by means of a welding process, especially by means of an ultrasonic welding process, and the melt 42 is bonded to the membrane 31 by material bonding. In this way, the membrane 31 is contained in the receiving space 38.

[0062] Figure 6 Another embodiment of the ventilation element 30 for the advantageous sealing device 10 is shown. (Compared to...) Figure 5 The structures described are basically the same. In this embodiment, the membrane 31 is fixed to the contact surface 37 on the substrate 32 of the ventilation element 30 by means of an adhesive connection 40.

[0063] Figure 7 An example of an alternative embodiment for the advantageous sealing device 10 is shown. (Compared to...) Figure 2 The described structures are essentially the same. In this embodiment example, the sealing element 16 includes an annular protrusion 19 that protrudes beyond the end face 21 of the first support element 12 and surrounds the collar 39 of the ventilation element 30. In this respect, the ventilation element 30 is inserted into the protrusion 19. A flexible web 36 with a latch lug 34 is guided through an opening 13 in the first support element 12 until the latch lug 34 hooks onto the first support element 12, thereby forming a form-fit connection with the first support element 12. The annular protrusion 19 serves to absorb centrifugal force and to provide a radial seal between the ventilation element 30 and the sealing element 16. Alternatively, as... Figure 9 As shown, the first carrier element 12 can also be exposed from the sealing material of the sealing element 16 in the region of the opening 13, so that the latch lug 34 can be more easily and directly engaged in the base of the first carrier element 12.

[0064] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the advantageous sealing device 10 is shown. (Compared to...) Figure 7The structures described are essentially the same. In this embodiment, the protrusion 19 includes an elastic collar 25 on which an undercut 27 is formed. Therefore, after the ventilation element 30 is fully inserted into the opening 13, another form-fit connection can be formed in the clamping area 29, thereby achieving a particularly stable fixation of the ventilation element 30 in the opening 13. This structure is designed so that the ventilation element 30 can be removed from the opening 13 reversibly without damage by pressing the webs 36 together and bending the collar 25 open. A release groove 23 is formed on the sealing element 16, which allows for material displacement of the sealing material of the sealing element 16, especially when the ventilation element 30 is pressed into the first support element 12, and thus facilitates the pressing of the ventilation element 30 into the first support element 12. In the pressed-in end position of the ventilation element 30, the undercut 27 can cover the ventilation element 30 and additionally secure it in place. As an alternative to clamping connection, the ventilation element 30 can also be fixed in the opening 13 of the first bearing element 12 by means of a thermal riveting process.

[0065] To achieve pressure balance between the interior space 72 and the environment, an opening 13 is formed in the first bearing element 12, allowing for fluid connection between the interior space 72 and the first sealed space 15. In this configuration, air flows through the ventilation element 30 for pressure balance, enabling gas exchange between the interior space 72 and the first sealed space 15 of the sealing device 10, but preventing droplets from penetrating the ventilation element 30 and thus reaching the interior space 72. The first sealed space 15 is ventilated and vented through the sealing gap 28, ensuring that the pressure present in the first sealed space 15 is essentially ambient. Alternatively, the interior space 72 can also vent to the second sealed space 17, where, in this case, additional venting from the second sealed space 17 to the first sealed space 15 is preferably provided. This can be accomplished, in particular, by means of a groove or opening in the first protective lip 18. Alternatively, as Figure 9 As shown, the first carrier element 12 can also be exposed from the sealing material of the sealing element 16 in the region of the opening 13, so that the latch hook 34 can be more easily and directly engaged in the base of the first carrier element 12.

[0066] Figure 9 Another embodiment of the advantageous sealing device 10 is shown. (Compared to...) Figure 2The structures shown are essentially the same. In this embodiment, the first support element 12 is exposed from the sealing material of the sealing element 16 in the region of the opening 13. This allows the latch hook 34 to directly hook into the first support element 12, and the latch hook has higher strength and bending stiffness compared to the sealing material of the sealing element 16. This facilitates the engagement of the latch hook 34 of the ventilation element 30. Furthermore, it increases the strength of the latch connection and reduces the risk of the ventilation element 30 being undesirably released from the opening 13.

Claims

1. A sealing device (10) for sealing an inner space (72) between two components (50, 52, 70) rotatably mounted relative to each other, the sealing device comprising a first carrier element (12) connectable to a first component (70) and a second carrier element (14) connectable to a second component (50, 52), wherein, A sealing element (16) is formed on at least one of the carrier elements (12, 14), which sealing element (16) bears against the respective other carrier element (12, 14) at at least one contact point (45, 46), and wherein at least one opening (13) is incorporated into the first carrier element (12), into which opening a ventilation element (30) is inserted, characterized in that a receiving space (38) is formed on the ventilation element (30), which receiving space is delimited by a collar (39) on the base body (32) of the ventilation element (30), wherein a gas-permeable membrane (31) or a porous body (47) is arranged in the receiving space (38); At least two webs (36) accommodated in the opening (13) are formed on the base body (32), wherein the at least two webs (36) are separated from one another by recesses (35).

2. The sealing device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that A latching element (34) is formed on one web (36) or one end portion of a plurality of webs (36), respectively, wherein the latching lug (34) connects the ventilation element (30) to the first carrier element (12) in a form-fit manner.

3. The sealing device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that The second carrier element (12) is designed to be free of sealing material in the region of the opening (13).

4. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The receiving space (38) is closed on the side facing away from the first carrier element (12) by a cover (33).

5. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The membrane (31) or the porous body (47) is connected to the ventilation element (30) by material bonding.

6. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that A contact surface (37) is formed on the base body (32) of the ventilation element (30), against which the membrane (31) or the porous body (47) bears.

7. The sealing device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that At least one dome (41) is formed on the contact surface (37).

8. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The collar (39) comprises a deformed region (43) which is deformed such that a holding portion (44) for the membrane (31) or the porous body (47) is formed.

9. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that A protrusion (19) is formed on the sealing element (16), which protrudes beyond an end face (21) of the first carrier element (12), wherein the collar (39) of the ventilation element (30) is enclosed in the protrusion (19) or is at least partially covered by the protrusion (19).

10. The sealing device (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that A collar (25) is formed on the protrusion (19), which collar comprises an undercut (27) for form-fit placement of the ventilation element (30).

11. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that A release groove (23) is formed on the sealing element (16) in a receiving region for the ventilation element (30).

12. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The at least one opening (30) is formed in a portion (49) of the first carrier element (12) which extends substantially perpendicularly to a component (50, 52, 70).

13. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The membrane (31) or the porous body (47) is made of a polymeric material.

14. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that A sealing gap (28) is formed between the first carrier element (12) and the second carrier element (14).

15. The sealing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The first carrier element (12) and / or the second carrier element (14) is / are at least partially coated with a sealing material.

16. The sealing device (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that A sealing lip (20) is formed on the first carrier element (12), which delimits a sealing space (15, 17) between the first carrier element (12) and the second carrier element (14).

17. The sealing device (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that The sealing lip (22) abuts against an opposite surface (26) on a portion (53) of the second carrier element (14) extending substantially perpendicular to the two components (50, 52, 70).

18. The sealing device (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that An opening (13) in the first carrier element (12) fluidically connects the interior space (72) with one of the sealing spaces (15, 17).

19. The sealing device (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that The polymeric material is polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

20. A method for manufacturing a sealing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, An opening (13) is formed in the first carrier element (12), wherein a venting element (30) is inserted into the opening (13) to enable pressure compensation between an interior space (72) sealed by the sealing device (10) and the environment.

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