Retaining system for bearing members

Abstract

A retention system (210) for a bearing member (208) includes a sleeve member (302) and a retention member (402). The retention system (210) includes an inner shoulder (312, 412) adapted to limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to a bore (206) in at least one of a first axial direction (D1) and a second axial direction (D2). The retention system (210) includes an outer shoulder (314, 414) adapted to limit movement of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (D1) and the second axial direction (D2). The retention system (210) includes a plurality of fasteners (520) adapted to limit movement of each of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (D1) and the second axial direction (D2). Each of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402) is adapted to limit contact of the bearing member (208) with the bore (206).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a retention system for a bearing component. More particularly, the present invention relates to a retention system for a bearing member disposed within a bore. BACKGROUND

[0002] Bearing members such as roller bearings, spherical bearings, and the like are retained within a bore using a snap ring. The snap ring engages with a groove disposed in the bore and a side surface of the bearing member in order to retain the bearing member in the bore. In many cases, the bearing member can be subjected to substantial axial loads. In such cases, the snap ring can be unable to withstand the axial loads and can fail, resulting in failure of the bearing member and / or the bore.

[0003] Furthermore, a gap can be provided between the snap ring and the bearing member and / or the bore. The gap can result in relative movement between the bearing, the snap ring, and the bore during operation of the bearing. In many cases, the relative movement can result in friction and wear of the mating surfaces, which in turn can result in failure of the snap ring, the bearing member, and / or the bore. Accordingly, there is a need for improved retention systems for bearing members for such applications.

[0004] European Patent No. 2,853,762 discloses a method for manufacturing a rolling bearing unit having a retainer plate. During assembly of an outer ring into the rolling bearing unit, a retainer plate provided with a large diameter portion at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of a support hole is used. With the small diameter stepped portion of the outer ring assembled within the support hole, a punch presses the circumferential edge of the large diameter portion axially of the retainer plate toward a step surface between the outer circumferential surface of the outer ring and an axial base portion of the small diameter stepped portion, and plastically deforms the circumferential edge of the large diameter portion radially inward to form an engagement protrusion. Furthermore, the engagement protrusion engages with an engagement groove formed around the outer peripheral surface of the small diameter stepped portion. SUMMARY

[0005] In one aspect of the application, a retention system for a bearing member disposed within a bore is provided. The retention system includes a sleeve member disposed between the bearing member and the bore. The sleeve member has a generally annular configuration defining an outer side, an inner side, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The retention system includes a retention member disposed between the bearing member and the bore. The retention member has a generally annular configuration defining an outer side, an inner side, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The inner side of the retention member is disposed proximate the inner side of the sleeve member. The retention system includes an inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member. The inner shoulder is adapted to engage the bearing member and limit movement of the bearing member relative to the bore in at least one of a first axial direction and a second axial direction. The retention system further includes an outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member. The outer shoulder is adapted to engage the bore and limit movement of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member relative to the bore in at least one of the first axial direction and the second axial direction. The retention system further includes a plurality of fasteners that pass through each of the sleeve member and the retention member. Each of the plurality of fasteners is disposed spaced apart from one another. Each of the plurality of fasteners is adapted to limit movement of each of the sleeve member and the retention member relative to the bore in at least one of the first axial direction and the second axial direction. Each of the sleeve member and the retention member is adapted to limit contact of the bearing member with the bore.

[0006] In another aspect of the application, a machine is provided. The machine includes a chassis and a spindle carrier. The spindle carrier has a bore and is pivotally coupled to the chassis through the bore. The machine also includes a bearing member disposed within the bore between the chassis and the spindle carrier. The machine further includes a retention system disposed within the bore in association with the bearing member. The retention system includes a sleeve member disposed between the bearing member and the bore. The sleeve member has a generally annular configuration defining an outer side, an inner side, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The retention system includes a retention member disposed between the bearing member and the bore. The retention member has a generally annular configuration defining an outer side, an inner side, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The inner side of the retention member is disposed adjacent the inner side of the sleeve member. The retention system includes an inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member. The inner shoulder is adapted to engage the bearing member and limit movement of the bearing member relative to the bore in at least one of a first axial direction and a second axial direction. The retention system also includes an outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member. The outer shoulder is adapted to engage the bore and limit movement of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member relative to the bore in at least one of the first axial direction and the second axial direction. The retention system further includes a plurality of fasteners that pass through each of the sleeve member and the retention member. Each of the plurality of fasteners is disposed spaced apart from one another. Each of the plurality of fasteners is adapted to limit movement of each of the sleeve member and the retention member relative to the bore in at least one of the first axial direction and the second axial direction. Each of the sleeve member and the retention member is adapted to limit contact of the bearing member with the bore.

[0007] In yet another aspect of the application, a method for protecting a bore disposed within a component is provided. The bore is adapted to removably receive a bearing member. The method includes removably providing a sleeve member between the bearing member and the bore. The method includes removably providing a retention member between the bearing member and the bore and adjacent the sleeve member. The method includes limiting movement of the bearing member relative to the bore in at least one of a first axial direction and a second axial direction by an inner shoulder. The method includes limiting movement of at least one of the sleeve member and the retention member relative to the bore in at least one of the first axial direction and the second axial direction by an outer shoulder. The method also includes limiting movement of each of the sleeve member and the retention member relative to the bore in at least one of the first axial direction and the second axial direction by a plurality of fasteners. The method further includes limiting contact of the bearing member with the bore by each of the sleeve member and the retention member.

[0008] Other features and aspects of the application will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary machine according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0010] Figure 2A and Figure 2B are different perspective views of a pedestal of a machine according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0011] Figure 3A and Figure 3B are different perspective views of a portion of a retention system for a bearing member according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0012] Figure 4A and Figure 4B are different perspective views of another portion of a retention system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0013] Figure 5 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the retention system in an assembled position according to an embodiment of the present application; and

[0014] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method of protecting a borehole disposed within a component according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in all drawings to refer to the same or like parts. Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows an exemplary machine 100. In the illustrated embodiment, machine 100 is an off-highway truck. Machine 100 is adapted to transport material, such as ore, earth, rock, etc., from one location to another. In other embodiments, machine 100 can be any other machine, such as a mining truck, articulated truck, haul truck, bulldozer, wheel loader, locomotive, etc. Machine 100 can be any machine associated with an industry, including but not limited to construction, transportation, mining, material handling, aviation, marine, and waste management. Figure 1 Machine 100 includes a chassis 102. Chassis 102 is adapted to support various components of machine 100. Machine 100 includes a housing 104 disposed on chassis 102. Housing 104 is adapted to house a power source (not shown) of machine 100. The power source is adapted to provide power to machine 100 to meet operational and mobility requirements. The power source can be any power source known in the art, such as an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, a battery, etc. Additionally, housing 104 can also include various components and systems (not shown) of machine 100, such as an engine system, a transmission system, an electric drive system, a drive control system, a lubrication system, an engine control system, a cooling system, an air supply system, etc.

[0016]

[0017] ​The machine 100 includes an operator's cab 106 mounted on the chassis 102. The operator's cab 106 is adapted to house one or more controls (not shown), such as steering, pedals, levers, consoles, buttons, knobs, audio-visual systems, alarm systems, etc. The controls are adapted to operate and control the machine 100 on the ground. The machine 100 includes a load bed 108 disposed on the chassis 102. The load bed 108 is adapted to load and unload material therefrom in order to transport the material from one location to another. The machine 100 also includes one or more hydraulic cylinders 110 coupled between the chassis 102 and the load bed 108. The hydraulic cylinders 110 are adapted to tilt the load bed 108 during unloading of the material. The machine 100 further includes a set of wheels 112 mounted to the chassis 102 by a wheel carrier 114. The wheels 112 are adapted to support the machine 100 on the ground and provide mobility to the machine 100.

[0018] Referring to Figure 2A and Figure 2B different perspective views of the wheel carrier 114 are shown. The wheel carrier 114 includes a main body portion 202. The main body portion 202 is adapted to rotatably house the set of wheels 112. The wheel carrier 114 also includes a nose cone portion 204. The nose cone portion 204 extends away from the main body portion 202 and includes a bore 206. The bore 206 defines a central axis X-X'. The nose cone portion 204 is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the chassis 102 of the machine 100 by the bore 206. More particularly, a portion of the chassis 102 passes through the bore 206 in order to pivotally couple the nose cone portion 204 to the chassis 102. Thus, the wheel carrier 114 is adapted to rotatably couple the set of wheels 112 to the chassis 102.

[0019] The wheel carrier 114 also includes a bearing member 208. The bearing member 208 is hereinafter referred to interchangeably as "bearing 208". The bearing 208 is removably disposed within the bore 206 and is axially aligned along the central axis X-X' between the chassis 102 and the wheel carrier 114. The bearing 208 is adapted to provide a bearing surface between the bore 206 and the chassis 102 for pivotal movement of the chassis 102 relative to the nose cone portion 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing 208 is a spherical bearing element. In other embodiments, the bearing 208 can be any other type of bearing, such as a roller-type bearing element, etc.

[0020] The wheel carrier 114 also includes a retention system 210. The retention system 210 is hereinafter referred to interchangeably as "system 210". The system 210 is disposed within the bore 206 associated with the bearing 208. The system 210 is adapted to limit movement of the bearing 208 along the central axis X-X' relative to the bore 206. The system 210 includes a sleeve member 302. Referring to Figure 3A and Figure 3BFIG. 3 shows different perspective views of the sleeve member 302. The sleeve member 302 can be interchangeably referred to hereinafter as "sleeve 302."

[0021] The sleeve 302 has a generally annular configuration defining a sleeve axis S-S'. Thus, the sleeve 302 defines an outer side 304 and an inner side 306. The inner side 306 is disposed opposite the outer side 304 along the sleeve axis S-S'. The sleeve 302 also defines an outer surface 308 and an inner surface 310. The inner surface 310 is disposed opposite the outer surface 308 about the sleeve axis S-S'. Furthermore, each of the outer surface 308 and the inner surface 310 extends between the outer side 304 and the inner side 306 of the sleeve 302. The sleeve 302 is adapted to be disposed between the bearing 208 and the bore 206 that is axially aligned along the central axis X-X'.

[0022] The sleeve 302 also includes a first inner shoulder 312. The first inner shoulder 312 is disposed on the inner surface 310 and adjacent the outer side 304 of the sleeve 302. In other embodiments, the first inner shoulder 312 can be disposed spaced apart from the outer side 304 of the sleeve 302. The first inner shoulder 312 extends from the inner surface 310 of the sleeve 302 substantially perpendicular to the sleeve axis S-S'. In other embodiments, the first inner shoulder 312 can be disposed at any angle relative to the sleeve axis S-S'. The first inner shoulder 312 is adapted to engage the bearing 208 and limit movement of the bearing member 208 relative to the bore 206 in a first axial direction "Dl" (shown in FIG. 3), as will be explained in greater detail later. Figure 5

[0023] The sleeve 302 also includes a first outer shoulder 314. The first outer shoulder 314 is disposed on the outer surface 308 and adjacent the outer side 304 of the sleeve 302. In other embodiments, the first outer shoulder 314 can be disposed spaced apart from the outer side 304 of the sleeve 302. The first outer shoulder 314 extends from the outer surface 308 of the sleeve 302 substantially perpendicular to the sleeve axis S-S'. In other embodiments, the first outer shoulder 314 can be disposed at any angle relative to the sleeve axis S-S'. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the first outer shoulder 314 is aligned relative to the first inner shoulder 312. In other embodiments, the first outer shoulder 314 can be offset relative to the first inner shoulder 312. The first outer shoulder 314 is adapted to engage the bore 206 and limit movement of the sleeve 302 relative to the bore 206 in a second axial direction "D2" (shown in FIG. 3), as will be explained in greater detail later. Figure 5

[0024] ​​The sleeve 302 further includes a recess 316. The recess 316 has a generally circular configuration. The recess 316 is disposed on the inner side 306 of the sleeve member 302, concentrically aligned with respect to the sleeve axis S-S'. The sleeve 302 further includes a plurality of first holes 318. Each of the first holes 318 is disposed adjacent to one another. Further, each of the first holes 318 extends between the outer side 304 and the inner side 306 of the sleeve 302. More particularly, each of the first holes 318 extends between the outer side 304 of the sleeve 302 and the recess 316. Further, each of the first holes 318 is disposed substantially parallel with respect to the sleeve axis S-S'. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first holes 318 is partially threaded. In other embodiments, each of the first holes 318 can be a fully threaded hole or can be a non-threaded hole, based on application requirements.

[0025] The sleeve 302 further includes an inner circumferential groove 320 disposed on the inner surface 310. Additionally, the sleeve 302 includes an outer circumferential groove 322 disposed on the outer surface 308. Each of the inner circumferential groove 320 and the outer circumferential groove 322 is concentrically aligned with respect to the sleeve axis S-S'. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the inner circumferential groove 320 and the outer circumferential groove 322 is aligned with respect to one another. In other embodiments, each of the inner circumferential groove 320 and the outer circumferential groove 322 can be offset with respect to one another.

[0026] Further, the sleeve 302 includes one or more channels 324 disposed in fluid communication with each of the inner circumferential groove 320 and the outer circumferential groove 322. As such, each of the channels 324 extends between the outer surface 308 and the inner surface 310 of the sleeve 302. The sleeve 302 can be made of any material, such as high-strength steel, any other high-strength alloy or metal, and the like, depending on application requirements. The sleeve 302 can be manufactured using any process, such as casting, forging, manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and the like, depending on application requirements.

[0027] The system 210 further includes a retaining member 402. Referring to Figure 4A and Figure 4B different perspective views of the retaining member 402 are shown. The retaining member 402 is hereinafter referred to interchangeably as "retainer 402". The retainer 402 has a generally annular configuration defining a retainer axis R-R'. Accordingly, the retainer 402 defines an outer side 404 and an inner side 406. The inner side 406 is disposed opposite the outer side 404 along the retainer axis R-R'. The retainer 402 further defines an outer surface 408 and an inner surface 410. The inner surface 410 is disposed opposite the outer surface 408 about the retainer axis R-R'. Further, each of the outer surface 408 and the inner surface 410 extends between the outer side 404 and the inner side 406 of the retainer 402. The retainer 402 is adapted to be disposed between the bearing 208 and the bore 206 axially aligned along the central axis X-X'.

[0028] The retainer 402 also includes a second inner shoulder 412. The second inner shoulder 412 is disposed on the inner surface 410 and adjacent the outer side 404 of the retainer 402. In other embodiments, the second inner shoulder 412 can be disposed spaced apart from the outer side 404 of the retainer 402. The second inner shoulder 412 extends away from the inner surface 410 of the retainer 402 substantially perpendicular to the retainer axis R-R'. In other embodiments, the second inner shoulder 412 can be disposed at any angle relative to the retainer axis R-R'. The second inner shoulder 412 is adapted to engage the bearing 208 and limit movement of the bearing member 208 relative to the bore 206 in a second axial direction "D2", as will be explained in greater detail later.

[0029] The retainer 402 also includes a second outer shoulder 414. The second outer shoulder 414 is disposed on the outer surface 408 and adjacent the outer side 404 of the retainer 402. In other embodiments, the second outer shoulder 414 can be disposed spaced apart from the outer side 404 of the retainer 402. The second outer shoulder 414 extends away from the outer surface 408 of the retainer 402 substantially perpendicular to the retainer axis R-R'. In other embodiments, the second outer shoulder 414 can be disposed at any angle relative to the retainer axis R-R'. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the second outer shoulder 414 is aligned relative to the second inner shoulder 412. In other embodiments, the second outer shoulder 414 can be offset relative to the second inner shoulder 412. The second outer shoulder 414 is adapted to engage the bore 206 and limit movement of the retainer 402 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction "D1", as will be explained in greater detail later.

[0030] The retainer 402 also includes a protrusion 416. The protrusion 416 has a generally circular configuration. The protrusion 416 is disposed on the inner side 406 of the retainer 402 concentrically aligned relative to the retainer axis R-R'. The retainer 402 also includes a plurality of second holes 418. Each of the second holes 418 is disposed adjacent one another. Further, each of the second holes 418 extends between the outer side 404 and the inner side 406 of the retainer 402. More specifically, each of the second holes 418 extends between the outer side 404 and the protrusion 416 of the retainer 402. Further, each of the second holes 418 is disposed substantially parallel relative to the retainer axis R-R'. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the second holes 418 is a non-threaded hole. In other embodiments, each of the second holes 418 can be partially or fully threaded based on application requirements.

[0031] The retainer 402 also includes a plurality of recesses 420. Each recess 420 is disposed on the outer side 404 of the retainer member 402 and is spaced apart from one another. Moreover, each recess 420 is axially aligned with respect to each second bore 418, respectively. Additionally, the retainer 402 includes one or more auxiliary bores 422. In the illustrated embodiment, each auxiliary bore 422 extends between the outer side 404 and the inner side 406 of the retainer 402. In other embodiments, each auxiliary bore 422 can be disposed on the outer side 404 and can extend at least partially to the inner side 406 of the retainer 402.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, each auxiliary bore 422 is a threaded bore. In other embodiments, each auxiliary bore 422 can be a non-threaded bore, depending on application requirements. The retainer 402 can be made of any material, such as high-strength steel, any other high-strength alloy or metal, etc., depending on application requirements. The retainer 402 can be manufactured using any process, such as casting, forging, machining, additive manufacturing, etc., depending on application requirements.

[0033] Referring to Figure 5 , a perspective cross-sectional view of the system 210 is shown along the cross-section Y-Y Figure 2A In the assembled position of the system 210, the sleeve 302 is disposed between the bearing 208 and the bore 206. More specifically, the outer surface 308 of the sleeve 302 is disposed in contact with the inner surface 510 of the bore 206. Additionally, the inner surface 310 of the sleeve 302 is disposed in contact with the outer surface 508 of the bearing 208. In this manner, the sleeve 302 can be retained in the bore 206 using an interference fit between the bore 206 and the bearing 208.

[0034] Additionally, the first outer shoulder 314 of the sleeve 302 is engaged with the first groove 512 disposed within the bore 206. Accordingly, the first outer shoulder 314 restricts movement of the sleeve 302 relative to the bore 206 in the second axial direction “D2”. In some embodiments, the first groove 512 within the bore 206 can be omitted. In this case, the first outer shoulder 314 can contact the side surface 516 of the bore 206. Moreover, the first inner shoulder 312 is engaged with the first side surface 504 of the bearing 208. Accordingly, the first inner shoulder 312 restricts movement of the bearing 208 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction “D1”.

[0035] Moreover, in the assembled position of the system 210, the retainer 402 is disposed between the bearing 208 and the bore 206. More specifically, the inner side 406 of the retainer 402 is disposed adjacent the inner side 306 of the sleeve 302. Furthermore, the recess 316 of the sleeve 302 removably receives the protrusion 416 of the retainer 402. In this manner, the retainer 402 is retained in the bore 206 with an interference fit between the protrusion 416 and the recess 316. Additionally, the second outer shoulder 414 of the retainer 402 engages the second groove 514 disposed within the bore 206. Accordingly, the second outer shoulder 414 limits movement of the retainer 402 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction "Dl".

[0036] In some embodiments, the second groove 514 within the bore 206 can be omitted. In this case, the second outer shoulder 414 can contact the side surface 518 of the bore 206. Furthermore, the second inner shoulder 412 engages the second side surface 506 of the bearing 208. Accordingly, the second inner shoulder 412 limits movement of the bearing 208 relative to the bore 206 in the second axial direction "D2". Additionally, the sleeve 302 and the retainer 402 limit contact of the bearing 208 with the bore 206. In this manner, the sleeve 302 and the retainer 402 provide sacrificial surfaces between the bore 206 and the bearing 208, thereby limiting damage to the bore 206.

[0037] Additionally, the system 210 includes a plurality of fasteners 520. Each of the fasteners 520 is disposed through each of the sleeve 302 and the retainer 402, respectively. More specifically, each of the fasteners 520 is disposed through each of the first holes 318 and each of the second holes 418, respectively. Accordingly, each of the fasteners 520 is disposed spaced apart from one another. Each of the fasteners 520 is adapted to limit movement of each of the sleeve 302 and the retainer 402 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction "Dl" and / or the second axial direction "D2". In the illustrated embodiment, each of the fasteners 520 is a hexagonal bolt. In this manner, a head 522 of each of the fasteners 520 is received in each of the counterbores 420, respectively. In other embodiments, one or more of the fasteners 520 can be any fastening element, such as a multi-point bolt, a screw fastener, a nut and bolt set, etc., as required by the application.

[0038] Industrial Applicability

[0039] The present disclosure relates to a retention system 210 for a bearing 208 and a method 600 for protecting a bore 206 disposed within a component. In the illustrated embodiment, the component is the nose cone portion 204 of the pedestal 114. In other embodiments, the component can be any other component associated with the machine 100 or any other machine, such as a vehicle, heavy machinery, manufacturing equipment, etc., as required by the application. Reference is made to Figure 6FIG. 6 shows a flowchart of the method 600. The method 600 will now be explained in conjunction with FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 5, and 6. Figure 3A 3B The method 600 will now be explained in conjunction with FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 5, and 6.

[0040] At step 602, the sleeve 302 is detachably disposed between the bearing 208 and the bore 206. The sleeve 302 can be retained in the bore 206 with an interference fit between the inner surface 510 of the bore 206 and the outer surface 308 of the sleeve 302, and an interference fit between the inner surface 310 of the sleeve 302 and the outer surface 508 of the bearing 208. At step 604, the retainer 402 is detachably disposed between the bearing 208 and the bore 206, and adjacent to the sleeve 302. More specifically, the inner side 406 of the retainer 402 is adjacent to the inner side 306 of the sleeve 302, such that the protrusion 416 of the retainer 402 is received in the recess 316 of the sleeve 302. In this way, the retainer 402 is retained in the bore 206 with an interference fit between the protrusion 416 and the recess 316.

[0041] At step 606, movement of the bearing 208 relative to the bore 206 in at least one of the first axial direction “D1” and the second axial direction “D2” is limited by the inner shoulder. More specifically, the first inner shoulder 312 disposed on the sleeve 302 contacts the first side surface 504 of the bearing 208. Accordingly, movement of the bearing 208 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction “D1” is limited by the first inner shoulder 312 disposed on the sleeve 302. Further, the second inner shoulder 412 disposed on the retainer 402 contacts the second side surface 506 of the bearing 208. Accordingly, movement of the bearing 208 relative to the bore 206 in the second axial direction “D2” is limited by the second inner shoulder 412 disposed on the retainer 402.

[0042] At step 608, movement of at least one of the sleeve 302 and the retainer 402 relative to the bore 206 in at least one of the first axial direction “D1” and the second axial direction “D2” is limited by the outer shoulder. More specifically, the first outer shoulder 314 disposed on the sleeve 302 engages the first groove 512 within the bore 206. Accordingly, movement of the sleeve 302 relative to the bore 206 in the second axial direction “D2” is limited by the first outer shoulder 314. Further, the second outer shoulder 414 disposed on the retainer 402 engages the second groove 514 within the bore 206. Accordingly, movement of the retainer 402 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction “D1” is limited by the second outer shoulder 414.

[0043] ​At step 610, movement of each of the sleeves 302 and retainers 402 relative to the bore 206 in at least one of the first axial direction "Dl" and the second axial direction "D2" is limited by the plurality of fasteners 520. More specifically, each fastener 520 passes through each of the first holes 318 in the sleeves 302, the second holes 418 in the retainers 402, and the counterbores 420 in the retainers 402, respectively, so as to retain each of the sleeves 302 and retainers 402 between the bearing 208 and the bore 206 and limit movement of each of the sleeves 302 and retainers 402 relative to the bore 206 in the first axial direction "Dl" and / or the second axial direction "D2". In this way, each of the sleeves 302 and retainers 402 provide a sacrificial surface between the bearing 208 and the bore 206. Accordingly, at step 612, each of the sleeves 302 and retainers 402 limit contact of the bearing 208 with the bore 206.

[0044] In this way, the sleeves 302 and / or retainers 402 provide a replaceable component between the bore 206 and the bearing 208. For example, during failure of the bearing 208, the sleeves 302 and / or retainers 402 limit contact of the bearing 208 with the bore 206, which in turn reduces damage to the bore 206. Further, the sleeves 302 and retainers 402 are disposed in the bore 206 with limited movement relative to the bore 206 and the bearing 208, which in turn reduces damage to the bore 206 due to friction and wear. Further, the combination of each of the sleeves 302, retainers 402, and fasteners 520 provides improved radial load and axial load carrying capacity within the bore 206.

[0045] Additionally, the sleeves 302 have a relatively higher thickness, which provides improved resistance of each of the first holes 318 to bending moments. Also, the sleeves 302 are made of a higher strength material, which provides improved stress carrying capacity between the inner surface 310 of the sleeves 302 and each of the first holes 318. Further, due to the relatively higher thickness, each of the first holes 318 are disposed relatively closer to one another, which provides improved resistance to bending moments. Further, the interference fit between the protrusions 416 of the retainers 402 and the recesses 316 of the sleeves 302 limit bending and deformation of the system 210 along the central axis X-X', which in turn reduces failure of one or more of the fasteners 520, the bearing 208, the sleeves 302, the retainers 402, and / or the bore 206.

[0046] Each of the inner circumferential groove 320, the outer circumferential groove 322, and the channel 324 provides a lubricant (e.g., grease) to flow from a lubricant passage (not shown) of the nose cone portion 204 to the bearing 208 via the sleeve 302. As such, each of the inner circumferential groove 320, the outer circumferential groove 322, and the channel 324 can allow the lubricant to flow from the nose cone portion 204 toward the bearing 208 in the event that the lubricant passage is misaligned with respect to the sleeve 302 and / or the bearing 208.

[0047] During assembly of the retainer 402 within the bore 206, each of the fasteners 520 can be twisted such that the retainer 402 can be pushed in the first axial direction "Dl" toward the sleeve 302. As such, the protrusion 416 of the retainer 402 can be pressed into the recess 316 of the sleeve 302 so as to form an interference fit between the protrusion 416 and the recess 316. As a result, the retainer 402 does not need to be chilled during assembly, thereby reducing process steps, limiting the use of specialized refrigeration / cryogenic equipment, reducing costs, etc.

[0048] Each of the auxiliary holes 422 disposed in the retainer 402 can be used during disassembly of the retainer 402 from the sleeve 302 with respect to the bore 206. In one instance, a coupling element (not shown), such as an eyelet, can be threadably disposed in one or more of the auxiliary holes 422. The retainer 402 can then be separated from the sleeve 302 by forcing the retainer 402 away from the sleeve 302 in the second axial direction "D2" using the coupling element. Moreover, the retainer 402 can be lifted and transported from one location to another using the coupling element.

[0049] In another instance, a fastening element, such as a bolt or screw, can be threadably disposed in one or more of the auxiliary holes 422. The fastening element can then be continuously twisted such that the fastening element can push against the second groove 514 of the bore 206 or the sleeve 302 so as to force the retainer 402 away from the sleeve 302 in the second axial direction "D2". As such, the auxiliary holes 422 push out the retainer 402 with less force, less time, and without damaging the surrounding surfaces / elements.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the first outer shoulder 314 of the sleeve 302 is disposed in the first recess 512 of the bore 206. As such, the extension of the sleeve 302 away from the bore 206 in the first axial direction "Dl" is reduced, thereby limiting the contact area and interference of the sleeve 302 with any adjacent components (not shown). Likewise, the second outer shoulder 414 of the retainer 402 is disposed in the second recess 514 of the bore 206. As such, the extension of the retainer 402 away from the bore 206 in the second axial direction "D2" is reduced, thereby limiting the contact area and interference of the retainer 402 with any adjacent components (not shown). Further, the head 522 of each fastener 520 is disposed in the counterbore 420 of the retainer 402, respectively. As such, the extension of each fastener 520 away from the bore 206 in the second axial direction "D2" is reduced, thereby limiting the contact area and interference of each fastener 520 with any adjacent components (not shown).

[0051] The system 210 provides a simple, effective, and cost-efficient method of retaining the bearing 208 within the bore 206 and further limiting the contact of the bearing 208 with the bore 206. As such, the system 210 can protect the bore 206 from damage due to failure of the bearing 208, friction and wear due to relative motion between surfaces, and the like. Further, in the event of damage to the system 210, one or more components of the system 210 can be easily replaced, thereby reducing the need for repair of the bore 206, reducing labor, reducing machine downtime, reducing costs, and the like. The system 210 can be retrofitted on any bearing / bore with little or no modification to existing systems, thereby providing flexibility and compatibility.

[0052] While aspects of the present application have been particularly shown and described with reference to the embodiments disclosed herein, it would be understood by those skilled in the art that various other changes in the form and details can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the application. Such embodiments should be understood as falling within the scope of the application as determined by the appended claims and any equivalents thereto.

Claims

1. A retention system (210) for a bearing member (208) disposed within a bore (206), the retention system (210) comprising: a sleeve member (302) disposed between the bearing member (208) and the bore (206), the sleeve member (302) having a generally annular arrangement defining an outer side (304), an inner side (306), an outer surface (308), and an inner surface (310); a retention member (402) disposed between the bearing member (208) and the bore (206), the retention member (402) having a generally annular arrangement defining an outer side (404), an inner side (406), an outer surface (408), and an inner surface (410), the inner side (406) of the retention member (402) disposed proximate the inner side (306) of the sleeve member (302); an inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface (310, 410) of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402), the inner shoulder adapted to engage the bearing member (208) and limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of a first axial direction (Dl) and a second axial direction (D2); an outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface (308, 408) of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402), the outer shoulder adapted to engage the bore (206) and limit movement of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (Dl) and the second axial direction (D2); and a plurality of fasteners (520) disposed through each of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402), each of the plurality of fasteners (520) disposed spaced apart from one another, each of the plurality of fasteners (520) adapted to limit movement of each of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (Dl) and the second axial direction (D2), wherein each of the sleeve member (302) and the retention member (402) is adapted to limit contact of the bearing member (208) with the bore (206). the inner shoulder further comprises a first inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface (310) of the sleeve member (302), the first inner shoulder adapted to engage a first side surface (504) of the bearing member (208) and limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in the first axial direction (Dl).

2. The holding system (210) according to claim 1, wherein ​ 3. The holding system (210) according to claim 2, wherein The inner shoulder further includes a second inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface (410) of the retaining member (402), the second inner shoulder adapted to engage a second side surface (506) of the bearing member (208) and limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in the second axial direction (D2).

4. The holding system (210) according to claim 1, wherein The outer shoulder further includes a first outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface (308) of the sleeve member (302), the first outer shoulder adapted to engage a first groove disposed within the bore (206) and limit movement of the sleeve member (302) relative to the bore (206) in the second axial direction (D2).

5. The holding system (210) according to claim 4, wherein The outer shoulder further includes a second outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface (408) of the retaining member (402), the second outer shoulder adapted to engage a second groove disposed within the bore (206) and limit movement of the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in the first axial direction (Dl).

6. The retention system (210) of claim 1, further comprising: a protrusion (416) disposed on the inner side (406) of the retaining member (402); and a recess (316) disposed on the inner side (306) of the sleeve member (302), the recess (316) adapted to removably receive the protrusion (416) of the retaining member (402).

7. The retention system (210) of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of counterbores (420) disposed on the outer side (404) of the retaining member (402), each of the plurality of counterbores (420) being spaced apart from one another.

8. The retention system (210) of claim 1, further comprising a circumferential groove disposed on each of the inner surface (310) and the outer surface (308) of the sleeve member (302).

9. A machine, comprising: a chassis (102); a pedestal (114) having a bore (206) and pivotally coupled to the chassis (102) through the bore (206); a bearing member (208) disposed within the bore (206) between the chassis (102) and the pedestal (114); and a retention system (210) disposed within the bore (206) in association with the bearing member (208), the retention system (210) comprising: a sleeve member (302) disposed between the bearing member (208) and the bore (206), the sleeve member (302) having a generally annular arrangement defining an outer side (304), an inner side (306), an outer surface (308), and an inner surface (310); a retaining member (402) disposed between the bearing member (208) and the bore (206), the retaining member (402) having a generally annular arrangement defining an outer side (404), an inner side (406), an outer surface (408), and an inner surface (410), the inner side (406) of the retaining member (402) disposed adjacent the inner side (306) of the sleeve member (302); an inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface (310, 410) of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402), the inner shoulder adapted to engage the bearing member (208) and limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of a first axial direction (Dl) and a second axial direction (D2); an outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface (308, 408) of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402), the outer shoulder adapted to engage the bore (206) and limit movement of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (Dl) and the second axial direction (D2); and a plurality of fasteners (520) disposed through each of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402), each of the plurality of fasteners (520) disposed spaced apart from one another, each of the plurality of fasteners (520) adapted to limit movement of each of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (Dl) and the second axial direction (D2), wherein each of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402) is adapted to limit contact of the bearing member (208) with the bore (206).

10. The machine of claim 9, wherein the inner shoulder further comprises a first inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface (310) of the sleeve member (302), the first inner shoulder adapted to engage a first side surface (504) of the bearing member (208) and limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in the first axial direction (Dl).

11. The machine of claim 10, wherein the inner shoulder further comprises a second inner shoulder disposed on the inner surface (410) of the retaining member (402), the second inner shoulder adapted to engage a second side surface (506) of the bearing member (208) and limit movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in the second axial direction (D2).

12. The machine of claim 9, wherein the outer shoulder further comprises a first outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface (308) of the sleeve member (302), the first outer shoulder adapted to engage with a first groove disposed within the bore (206) and limit movement of the sleeve member (302) relative to the bore (206) in the second axial direction (D2).

13. The machine of claim 12, wherein the outer shoulder further comprises a second outer shoulder disposed on the outer surface (408) of the retaining member (402), the second outer shoulder adapted to engage with a second groove disposed within the bore (206) and limit movement of the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in the first axial direction (Dl).

14. The machine of claim 9, further comprising: a protrusion (416) disposed on the inner side (406) of the retaining member (402); and a recess (316) disposed on the inner side (306) of the sleeve member (302), the recess (316) adapted to removably receive the protrusion (416) of the retaining member (402).

15. The machine of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of counterbores (420) disposed on the outer side (404) of the retaining member (402), each of the plurality of counterbores (420) disposed spaced apart from one another.

16. A method (600) for protecting a bore (206) disposed within a component, the bore (206) adapted to removably receive a bearing member (208), the method (600) comprising: removably providing a sleeve member (302) between the bearing member (208) and the bore (206); removably providing a retaining member (402) between the bearing member (208) and the bore (206) and adjacent to the sleeve member (302); limiting movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of a first axial direction (Dl) and a second axial direction (D2) by an inner shoulder; limiting movement of at least one of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (Dl) and the second axial direction (D2) by an outer shoulder; limiting movement of each of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in at least one of the first axial direction (Dl) and the second axial direction (D2) by a plurality of fasteners (520); and limiting contact of the bearing member (208) with the bore (206) by each of the sleeve member (302) and the retaining member (402). ​ ​ 17. The method (600) of claim 16, further comprising limiting movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in the first axial direction (Dl) by a first inner shoulder provided on the sleeve member (302).

18. The method (600) of claim 17, further comprising limiting movement of the bearing member (208) relative to the bore (206) in the second axial direction (D2) by a second inner shoulder provided on the retaining member (402).

19. The method (600) of claim 16, further comprising limiting movement of the sleeve member (302) relative to the bore (206) in the second axial direction (D2) by a first outer shoulder provided on the sleeve member (302).

20. The method (600) of claim 19, further comprising limiting movement of the retaining member (402) relative to the bore (206) in the first axial direction (Dl) by a second outer shoulder provided on the retaining member (402).

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