Sleeves, their uses, bearing housings, and their applications.

Abstract

This invention relates to sleeves, uses of sleeves, bearing housings, and uses of bearing housings. The bearing housing (1) includes: a bearing body (2) for holding a bearing (3); and a cover (4) forming a shaft insertion portion (6) for inserting a shaft into the bearing housing (1), the cover (4) having a spherical outer surface (4a) movable to contact the bearing housing body (2), and the cover (3) resting on the bearing (3) when installed in the bearing housing body (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a bearing housing for use in environments where environmental hygiene is of paramount importance. In particular, this invention relates to a waterproof bearing housing for use in environments where environmental hygiene is of paramount importance, wherein increased angular movement can be provided when a shaft is inserted into the bearing housing without compromising the waterproofing effect, thereby reducing maintenance and limiting or even preventing the deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens on, inside, or around the bearing housing. Background Technology

[0002] Over the past decade, the number of food and beverage products requiring recalls has increased significantly due to contamination by microorganisms, allergens, or dirt that are not expected to be present in food products.

[0003] In this regard, bacterial contamination and undeclared allergens combined account for approximately 75% of the main reasons for unit-based FDA food recalls.

[0004] Many companies provide strict safety practice guidelines and measures in their production areas to protect food products. These may include measures such as posting signs that encourage handwashing or purchasing hygienically designed "food-grade" machines.

[0005] With the increase in recalls, proactive food safety has become a top concern for food and beverage operators, who are employing various methods to reduce or avoid contaminated food products.

[0006] One approach is to inspect or monitor food products and production lines, which is highly undesirable for manufacturers because it is both time-consuming and expensive. The result of inspection or control may be a shutdown of the production line until equipment and facilities are properly cleaned. This obviously has a significant impact on a manufacturer's turnover in terms of downtime and no-product production.

[0007] Therefore, the alternative approach is to ensure proper cleaning of equipment and facilities to guarantee a clean and uncontaminated environment and to prioritize food safety.

[0008] One of the high-risk areas that are contaminated with dirt, microorganisms and allergens and have proven difficult to clean properly is the bearing housing and the area around it.

[0009] One problem with bearing housings offered today is that the waterproof seals can be challenging during installation. Misalignment exceeding 1.5 degrees can cause angular movement of the shaft into the bearing and put pressure on the seal, potentially deforming it and creating a gap that allows water to enter the bearing housing. This results in inadequate waterproofing, as well as bearing corrosion and additional wear. Furthermore, dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens can hide, deposit, or accumulate in the bearing housing, making cleaning difficult and potentially contaminating the manufactured products.

[0010] To maintain the water-repellent properties of bearing housings, large amounts of lubricant or lubricating oil are typically used to keep water on the outside of the housing. This lubrication has a significant negative impact on hygiene because bearing lubrication, especially excessive lubricant, can provide a safe place for contaminants to hide and accumulate.

[0011] Therefore, improved bearing housings, especially waterproof bearing housings, are advantageous – even with increased angular movement during misalignment during installation, flushing and cleaning may be more effective and / or reliable, thus limiting or even preventing the deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens on, inside, or around the bearing housing – even when misaligned. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Therefore, the object of the present invention relates to a bearing housing for use in environments where environmental hygiene is of paramount importance.

[0013] In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a waterproof bearing housing that allows increased angular movement of the shaft when it is inserted into the bearing housing, for example, when misaligned during installation, without compromising the waterproof effect, thereby reducing maintenance and allowing for more efficient and / or more reliable flushing and cleaning compared to prior art bearing housings, thus solving the aforementioned lubrication problems of the prior art, and reducing or even preventing the deposition and accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material or allergens on, inside or around the bearing housing.

[0014] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention relates to a bearing housing comprising: a bearing body for holding a bearing; and a shroud forming a shaft insertion portion for inserting a shaft into the bearing housing, the shroud having a spherical outer surface movable to contact the bearing housing body, and the shroud resting on the bearing when mounted in the bearing housing body.

[0015] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of a bearing housing according to the invention in environments with high hygiene and cleanliness requirements, and / or in environments subject to low (or no) deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material and / or allergens.

[0016] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of bearing housings according to the invention in the food production industry, feed production industry and / or pharmaceutical industry.

[0017] Another aspect of the invention relates to a sleeve comprising a circular front end portion and a circular rear end portion, and a circular opening passing through the central portion of the circular front end portion and the circular rear end portion, wherein the rear end portion is connected to the front end portion by a spherical structure.

[0018] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of a sleeve containing polymer material as a seal and as a sliding bearing.

[0019] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of the sleeve according to the invention in a bearing housing according to the invention.

[0020] Another aspect of the invention relates to devices comprising bearing housings according to the invention, preferably to sanitary devices. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1

[0022] Figure 1 A sanitary bearing housing 1 is shown, comprising: a bearing body 2 for holding a bearing 3; and a shroud 4, the shroud forming a shaft insertion portion 6 for inserting a shaft into the bearing housing 1. The shroud 4 has a spherical outer surface 4a that is movable to contact the bearing housing body 2, and the shroud 4 rests on the bearing 3 when installed in the bearing housing body 2. The shroud 4 includes a seal 9a located between the bearing housing body 2 and the shroud 4.

[0023] The spherical structure on the outer surface of the cover can contact a removable flat cover 2c, which is attached to the fixed bearing housing body 2a. When the bearing 3 is installed in the bearing housing body 2, the removable flat cover 2c presses the cover 4 against the bearing 3. The removable flat cover 2c contacts the cover 4, and a seal 9a is provided between the removable flat cover 2c (or the bearing housing body 2) and the cover 4. The removable flat cover 2c also includes a seal 9c located between the removable flat cover 2c and the fixed bearing housing body 2a.

[0024] On the opposite side of the removable flat cover 2c, the removable bearing housing cover 2b is attached to the fixed bearing housing body 2a. A seal 9b is provided between the fixed bearing housing body 2a and the removable bearing housing cover 2b.

[0025] Figure 1 A bearing housing 1 with a closed end is shown, the bearing housing having a bearing housing cover 2b. However, if a shaft passes through the bearing housing, the shield structure according to the invention, as described above, can be arranged on each side of the bearing housing body 2a.

[0026] Preferably, one or more seals 9 introduced into the bearing housing 1 are configured with a profile adapted to the surface of the bearing housing, and thus the profile substantially ensures a continuous surface. Preferably, one or more seals 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 9e and / or 9f are configured with a profile adapted to the surface of the bearing housing, and thus the profile substantially ensures a continuous surface of the bearing housing 1.

[0027] The protective cover 4 rests on the bearing 3. The combined bearing 3 and protective cover 4 can form a spherical structure, such as a spherical seal, or a sphere or hemisphere with the same center. The combined bearing 3 and protective cover 4 can move to contact the bearing housing body 2, and the shaft 11 can perform angular motion. Around the center of the sphere of the protective cover 4, the motion follows a tapered structure originating from the center. In addition to the angular motion when the shaft 11 is inserted into the bearing housing 1, the shaft 11 can also perform rotational motion. Rotational motion can be performed from the center of the sphere about the longitudinal direction of the shaft or about the centerline of the shaft.

[0028] Misalignment that could cause angular movement of shaft 11, housing 4 and / or bearing 3 may be caused by angular misalignment of connected bearing housings and / or parallel misalignment of connected bearing housings.

[0029] exist Figure 1 In the configuration shown, shaft 11 (and shroud 4 and / or shroud 4 and bearing 3) is capable of angular movement of 3.5 degrees or greater; this angular movement, within the range of 3.5 degrees to 17 degrees, does not stress the bearing or cause undesirable deformation of the seals, thereby keeping the bearing and bearing housing waterproof.

[0030] The bearing housing body 2 includes two or more bearing housing legs 7 for attaching the bearing housing 1 to the base 5 using attachment devices 8 such as bolts and nuts. The bearing housing is attached to the base by bolts and nuts, and a seal 9e is provided at the joint between the bolt and the leg and between the nut and the leg. Each bearing housing leg 7 extends from the bearing housing body 2 by an arm 10.

[0031] Figure 2

[0032] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a sanitary bearing housing 1 according to the present invention is shown. The sanitary bearing housing 1 includes: a bearing body 2 for holding a bearing 3; and a cover 4 forming a shaft insertion portion 6 for inserting a shaft into the bearing housing 1. The bearing housing 1 is provided with two bearing housing legs 7, which extend from the bearing housing body 2 via arms 10. The bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body 2a, a removable bearing housing cover 2b, and a removable flat bearing housing cover 2c.

[0033] When the removable bearing housing flat cover 2c is connected to the fixed bearing housing body 2a, the removable bearing housing flat cover presses the cover 4 against the bearing 3. The cover 4 and the bearing 3 combine to form a spherical structure, the two-dimensional structure of which has already been described. Figure 2 It is represented by a solid circle.

[0034] When the protective cover 4 rests on the bearing 3, a spherical structure, such as a ball or hemispherical structure, can be formed with the same center—center c. Shaft ( Figure 2 (Not shown) When inserted into the bearing housing 1, it can perform angular motion around the center c of the ball. The angular motion around the center c can start from the center c and proceed in the longitudinal direction around the axis or in the conical direction around the center line of the axis, starting from the center c and leaving the bearing housing 1.

[0035] The shaft (as well as the cover 4 and the bearing 3) is capable of angular movement of 3.5 degrees or greater; preferably, this angular movement is in the range of 3.5 degrees to 17 degrees, which will not stress the bearing or cause undesirable deformation of the seal, thereby keeping the bearing 2 and the bearing housing body 2 waterproof.

[0036] Figures 3 to 5

[0037] Figures 3 to 5 illustrate the effects achieved by the bearing housing 1 according to the present invention. The bearing housing 1 shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5 is compared with... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The same applies to the figures shown, where the angular motion around the center c of the sphere has already been shown. Figure 3 does not show the angular motion (0°), Figure 4 shows the angular motion of 5 degrees (5°), and Figure 5 shows the angular motion of 10 degrees (10°).

[0038] Figure 6

[0039] Figure 6 shows the result of Figure 6a , Figure 6b , Figure 6c and Figure 6dRear views of four different variations of the sanitary bearing housing 1 according to the invention. The bearing housing 1 includes a bearing housing body 2 for receiving a rotating shaft (not shown in FIG. 6), and two or more bearing housing legs 7 for attaching the bearing housing 1 to a base. Each of the two or more bearing housing legs 7 extends from the bearing housing body 2 via an arm 10.

[0040] Figure 6a A bearing housing 1 including two bearing housing legs 7 is shown. The two bearing housing legs 7 are oriented in the longitudinal direction relative to the direction of the rotation axis to be inserted into the bearing housing 1. Figure 6b A bearing housing 1 including four bearing housing legs 7 is shown. The four bearing housing legs 7 are oriented in the longitudinal direction relative to the direction of the rotation axis to be inserted into the bearing housing 1. Figure 6c A bearing housing 1 including two bearing housing legs 7 is shown. The two bearing housing legs 7 are oriented in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis to be inserted into the bearing housing 1. Figure 6d A bearing housing 1 including three bearing housing legs 7 is shown. The three bearing housing legs 7 are oriented in the longitudinal direction relative to the direction of the rotation axis to be inserted into the bearing housing 1.

[0041] Figure 6a , Figure 6b and Figure 6c The bearing housing legs 7 are shown symmetrically distributed around the base 2 of the bearing housing. Figure 6d A bearing housing 1 is shown, comprising three bearing housing legs 7, wherein the three bearing housing legs 7 are asymmetrically distributed around a bearing housing base 2, and one bearing housing leg 7 is attached to the bearing housing body 2 via one or more other bearing housing legs 7. Preferably, an annular connection of the bearing housing legs 7 can be provided, see... Figure 6d .

[0042] Figure 6 shows that the length of the bearing housing leg 7 (defined from the top 7a of the bearing housing leg to the base end 7b of the bearing housing leg) is greater than the height of the arm 10. In fact, the bearing housing leg 7 is the only part of the bearing housing that contacts the base when the bearing housing 1 is attached to it. Since the bearing housing base 2 and the arm 10 do not contact the base when attached, the open space created between the bearing housing body 2 (and the arm 10) and the base (when attached to the base) allows for easy access for cleaning the bearing housing from various angles.

[0043] The bearing housing body 2 includes: a fixed bearing housing body 2a, which is connected to two bearing housing legs 7 via an arm 10. Figure 6a and Figure 6c ), connected to the three bearing housing legs 7 ( Figure 6d ) or connected to the four bearing housing legs 7 ( Figure 6bThe bearing housing body 2a includes a removable bearing housing cover 2b attached to a fixed bearing housing body 2a. A removable flat cover 2c is provided on the fixed bearing housing body 2a, opposite to the removable bearing housing cover 2b. The removable flat cover 2c includes a shaft insertion portion (not shown).

[0044] Seals (9c and 9b, respectively) are inserted between the fixed bearing housing body 2a and the removable flat cover 2c, and between the fixed bearing housing body 2a and the removable bearing housing cover 2b, to ensure that water does not enter the bearing housing 1 at these joints. The seal 9 is configured to have a profile adapted to the structure of the connected surfaces or the connected elements, and thus substantially ensures a continuous or substantially continuous surface at the joints between the connected surfaces or elements, thereby preventing or hindering the hiding and / or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material (e.g., bacteria or fungi), or other contaminants (e.g., allergens).

[0045] A seal 9f is also provided at the base end of each of the bearing housing legs 7b to prevent the accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material or other contaminants at the joint between the bearing housing body 2 and the base.

[0046] Seal 9 can be made of non-conductive soft silicone material. RAL 5010 is blue and provides visual inspection of improved hygiene levels and / or cleanliness.

[0047] The seal 9 according to the invention helps provide a waterproof bearing housing by preventing the entry of water, dirt and microbial substances.

[0048] The bearing housing support 7 includes attachment means 8 for attaching the bearing housing 1 to the base, such as bolts and nuts.

[0049] The bearing housing 1 may be made of a robust polypropylene material, and the surface of the bearing housing 1 is made smooth to allow water to drain from the surface. The surface roughness of the bearing housing 1 is below Ra 2.0 μm; for example, Ra 1.8 μm; for example, Ra 1.6 μm; for example, Ra 1.4 μm; for example, Ra 1.2 μm; for example, Ra 1.0 μm; for example, Ra 0.8 μm; for example, Ra 0.6 μm; for example, Ra 0.4 μm.

[0050] A bearing for receiving the rotating shaft is installed inside the bearing housing 1. The bearing can be a ceramic bearing or a stainless steel bearing.

[0051] Figure 7

[0052] Figure 7A front view of a sanitary bearing housing 1 according to the present invention is shown. The bearing housing 1 includes a bearing housing body 2 for receiving a rotating shaft (not shown) and four bearing housing legs 7 for attaching the bearing housing 1 to a base. Each of the bearing housing legs 7 extends from the bearing housing body 2 via an arm 10.

[0053] A seal 9f is provided at the base end 7b of the bearing support leg, which is the only part of the bearing housing 1 that contacts the base when the bearing housing 1 is attached to the base.

[0054] The bearing housing body 2 includes:

[0055] - A fixed bearing housing body 2a, which is connected via arm 10 to

[0056] The two bearing housing supports 7 are connected; and

[0057] - A removable flat cover 2c, which includes a shaft insertion portion 6.

[0058] A bearing is installed inside the bearing housing base 2 to accommodate a rotating shaft, and a seal 9d is provided inside the bearing housing base, which contacts the shaft when the shaft is inserted into the bearing housing body 2. The seal 9d and the spherical outer surface 4 can be made of the same material and are preferably integral, or they can be made of different materials. Preferably, the seal 9d and the spherical outer surface 4 can be made of the same material and are preferably integral.

[0059] Arm 10 is formed as a polyhedron, specifically as a triangular prism. The first end of each of the two triangular portions is attached to the bearing housing body 2, and the second end of each of the two triangular portions is attached to one of the two bearing housing legs 7. The first triangular portion has a curved end with a radius related to the radius of the bearing housing body 2, and this radius is greater than the radius of the curved end attached to each of the bearing housing legs 7.

[0060] The arm 10 has: a length l, which determines how far each of the bearing housing legs 7 extends from the bearing housing body 2; a height h, which is determined in the direction from the bearing housing 1 to the base; and a width w, which is determined in the direction perpendicular to the direction from the bearing housing 1 to the base.

[0061] During molding, arm 10 is formed as an integral part of fixed bearing housing body 2a and two bearing housing legs 7.

[0062] When the bearing housing 1 is attached to the base, the arm 10 does not contact the base.

[0063] The tip 12 of the arm 10, which is formed as a polyhedron, particularly as a triangular prism, points towards the base. The structure of the arm 10 improves the cleaning around the bearing housing by providing an improved inlet for cleaning from all sides and angles of the bearing housing and by improving the drainage method.

[0064] Figure 8

[0065] Figure 8 A sanitary bearing housing 1 according to the present invention is shown. The bearing housing 1 includes a bearing housing body 2 for receiving a rotating shaft 11 and four bearing housing legs 7 for attaching the bearing housing 1 to a base. Each of the four bearing housing legs 7 extends from the bearing housing body 2 via an arm 10.

[0066] The bearing housing body 2 includes: a fixed bearing housing body 2a; a removable bearing housing cover 2b; and a removable flat cover 2c, which includes a shaft insertion portion for inserting the shaft 11.

[0067] In embodiments of the invention, the bearing housing body 2 may include a fixed bearing housing body 2a, a removable bearing housing cover 2b, and a removable flat cover 2c, wherein the removable flat cover 2c includes a shaft insertion portion for inserting a shaft 11, and wherein the removable bearing housing cover 2b includes a shaft insertion portion 6 for inserting a shaft 11. This configuration of the bearing housing according to the invention can be provided for bearing housings in which a shaft passes through the bearing housing and therefore two shaft insertion portions 6 are required, one for allowing the shaft 11 to enter the bearing housing 1, and one for allowing the shaft 11 to exit the bearing housing 1.

[0068] According to the present invention, the bearing housing 1 is attached to the base 5 at the base end 7b of the bearing leg using an attachment device 8, such as a bolt. The base end of the bearing leg is the only part of the bearing housing that contacts the base 5 when the bearing housing 1 is attached to the base. A seal 9f is provided at the base end of the bearing leg.

[0069] The bearing housing body 2 includes:

[0070] - A fixed bearing housing body 2a, which is connected via arm 10 to

[0071] The two bearing housing supports 7 are connected; and

[0072] - A removable flat cover 2c, which includes a shaft insert.

[0073] Figure 9

[0074] Figure 9A sanitary bearing housing 1 according to the present invention is shown. The bearing housing 1 includes: a bearing housing body 2 for holding a rotating shaft 11; and four bearing housing legs 7 for attaching the bearing housing 1 to a base. Each of the four bearing housing legs 7 extends from the bearing housing body 2 via an arm 10.

[0075] The bearing housing body 2 may include a fixed bearing housing body 2a, a removable bearing housing cover 2b, and a removable flat cover 2c, wherein the removable flat cover 2c includes a shaft insertion portion for inserting the shaft 11, and wherein the removable bearing housing cover 2b includes a shaft insertion portion 6 for inserting the shaft 11.

[0076] The bearing housing according to the invention can be provided as follows. Figure 9 The bearing housing 1 shown is constructed such that the shaft passes through the bearing housing and thus the bearing housing is provided with two shaft insertion parts 6, one shaft insertion part 6 for allowing the shaft 11 to enter the bearing housing 1, and the other shaft insertion part for allowing the shaft 11 to exit the bearing housing 1.

[0077] Figure 10

[0078] Figure 10 A side view of a sleeve 40 according to the invention is shown. The sleeve 40 includes a circular front end portion 41 and a circular rear end portion 42, and a circular opening 6 passing through the central portion of the circular front end portion 41 and the circular rear end portion 42, wherein the circular rear end portion 42 is connected to the circular front end portion 41 by a spherical structure 44. The circular opening 6 allows passage from the circular front end portion 41 through the sleeve 40 to the circular rear end portion 42.

[0079] Sleeve 40 may be a sliding bearing and / or a seal, such as a ball seal. Sleeve 40 may be supplied as a single piece of material.

[0080] The diameter of the circular front end portion 41 of the sleeve 40 may be smaller than the diameter of the circular rear end portion 42.

[0081] The circular front end 41 may have a circular opening 45, and the circular rear end 42 may have a circular opening 46, wherein the diameter of the circular opening 45 may be smaller than the diameter of the circular opening 46.

[0082] The front circular opening 45 may be provided with a lip seal 47. The lip seal 47 may have a negative curvature or neutral curvature configuration 48 relative to the sleeve 40. The negative curvature or neutral curvature configuration 48 provided by the lip seal 47 may be negative curvature relative to the spherical structure 44. When the shaft is inserted into the circular opening 49, the negative curvature or neutral curvature configuration 48 forms parallel or substantially parallel to the shaft (11, Figure 11The longitudinal lip seal 47 (or Figure 12) serves as a shaft insertion part 6 for inserting the shaft into the bearing housing 1.

[0083] Figure 11

[0084] Figure 11 As shown Figure 10 The sleeve 40 is shown as a front view. The sleeve 40 includes a circular front end portion 41 and a circular rear end portion 42, and a circular opening 49 passing through the central portion of the circular front end portion 41 and the circular rear end portion 42, wherein the circular rear end portion 42 is connected to the circular front end portion 41 by a spherical structure 44. The circular opening 49 allows passage from the circular front end portion 41 through the sleeve 40 to the circular rear end portion 42.

[0085] The circular front end 41 may have a circular opening 45, while the circular rear end 42 may have a circular opening 46, wherein the diameter of the circular opening 45 may be smaller than the diameter of the circular opening 46.

[0086] Figure 12

[0087] Figure 12 illustrates the interaction between the sleeve 40, the shaft 11, and the bearing 3. The sleeve 40 includes a circular front end 41 and a circular rear end 42, and a circular opening 49 passing through the central portion of the circular front end 41 and the circular rear end 42, wherein the circular rear end 42 is connected to the circular front end 41 by a spherical structure 44. The circular opening 49 allows passage from the circular front end 41 through the sleeve 40 to the circular rear end 42, and the shaft 11 is inserted into the circular opening. Figure 11 The sleeve 40 is shown resting on the bearing 3, and the sleeve 40 and the bearing 3 together can form a spherical or hemispherical shape with a common center.

[0088] Figure 13

[0089] Figure 13 shows an exploded view of a sanitary bearing housing 1 according to the present invention, which includes a sleeve 40.

[0090] The sanitary bearing housing 1 includes: a bearing body 2 for holding a bearing 3; and a sleeve 40, which forms a shaft insertion portion 6 (provided by a circular opening 49) for inserting a shaft 11 into the bearing housing 1. The sleeve 40 has a circular front end and a circular rear end. The circular front end has a front circular opening 45, and the circular rear end has a rear circular opening 46, thereby forming a circular opening 49 passing through the center of the circular front end and the circular rear end. The diameter of the front circular opening 45 may be smaller than the diameter of the rear circular opening 46. The sleeve 40 is movable to contact the bearing housing body 2, and when the sleeve 40 is installed in the bearing housing body 2, the sleeve rests on the bearing 3. The sleeve 40 can be a seal located between the bearing housing body 2 and the shaft 11, and a sliding bearing abutting against the shaft 11.

[0091] The spherical structure 44 on the outer surface of the sleeve 40 can contact the removable flat cover 2c attached to the fixed bearing housing body 2a. When the bearing 3 is installed in the bearing housing body 2, the removable flat cover 2c presses the sleeve 40 against the bearing 3.

[0092] The sleeve 40 rests on the bearing 3, and the combined bearing 3 and sleeve 40 can form a spherical structure, such as a spherical or hemispherical structure with the same center. The combined bearing 3 and sleeve 40 can move to contact the bearing housing body 2, and the shaft 11 can perform angular motion. The motion follows a tapered structure originating from the center of the sphere around the center of the sphere. In addition to the angular motion of the shaft 11 when inserted into the bearing housing 1, the shaft 11 can also perform rotational motion. Rotational motion can be performed from the center of the sphere about the longitudinal direction of the shaft or about the centerline of the shaft.

[0093] According to the invention, the bearing housing 1 is attached to a base 5 at the base end of the bearing leg 7b using an attachment device 8 such as a bolt. The bearing leg is the only part of the bearing housing that contacts the base 5 when the bearing housing 1 is attached to the base 5.

[0094] The invention will now be described in more detail below. Detailed Implementation

[0095] Bearing housings are typically located in hygienic environments, such as food production sites, feed production sites, or pharmaceutical sites, where dirt, grime, microbial material (e.g., bacteria or fungi) or other contaminants such as allergens may hide and accumulate, resulting in contaminated products with undesirable components.

[0096] Therefore, the inventors of this invention have surprisingly discovered that even with increased angular movement due to misalignment during installation, by simplifying and rebuilding the bearing housing by ensuring it is waterproof, cleaning the bearing housing and the area around it becomes much easier, and the deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens on, inside, or around the bearing housing can be significantly reduced or even avoided, without compromising the strength, stiffness, or stability of the bearing housing.

[0097] Therefore, a preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a bearing housing, the bearing housing comprising: a bearing body for holding a bearing; and a cover forming a shaft insertion portion for inserting a shaft into the bearing housing, the cover having a spherical outer surface movable to contact the bearing housing body, and the cover resting on the bearing when installed in the bearing housing body.

[0098] The spherical shape of the shield can surround the shaft insertion part.

[0099] In embodiments of the present invention, the protective cover may include a sleeve according to the present invention.

[0100] In another embodiment of the invention, the shroud and / or sleeve form a housing surrounding the shaft. Preferably, the housing according to the invention is a hollow housing. The hollow housing according to the invention preferably provides an empty space between the shroud and / or sleeve and the shaft. In embodiments of the invention, the housing, particularly the hollow housing, does not include a solid construction (where space has already been reserved solely for the shaft to be introduced).

[0101] The inventors of this invention have discovered that by applying a shield and / or sleeve in the form of a hollow outer shell, particularly at the contact point between the shield and / or sleeve and the shaft, and more specifically at the contact point between the edge of the shield and / or sleeve and the shaft, a resilient effect can be provided for the shield and / or sleeve. This resilient effect provides improved hygiene for the shield and / or sleeve, as well as the bearing housing including the shield and / or sleeve.

[0102] Furthermore, the use of hollow shields and / or sleeves as described in this invention allows the shaft to pass through the bearing housing and / or allows the user to change the longitudinal orientation of the bearing and shaft (approximately 180°).

[0103] In embodiments of the invention, the radius of the front end of the circle is smaller than the radius of the rear end of the circle. Preferably, the radius of the rear end of the circle is at least 10% larger than the front end of the circle; for example, the radius of the rear end of the circle is at least 20% larger than the front end of the circle; for example, the radius of the rear end of the circle is at least 30% larger than the front end of the circle; for example, the radius of the rear end of the circle is at least 40% larger than the front end of the circle; for example, the radius of the rear end of the circle is at least 50% larger than the front end of the circle; for example, the radius of the rear end of the circle is at least 60% larger than the front end of the circle.

[0104] A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a sleeve comprising a circular front end and a circular rear end, and a circular opening passing through the central portion of the circular front end and the circular rear end, wherein the rear end is connected to the front end by a spherical structure.

[0105] This invention relates to the use of sleeves containing polymer materials as seals and as sliding bearings. Preferably, the seal can be a sleeve according to the invention.

[0106] In embodiments of the present invention, the sleeve may be a sliding bearing.

[0107] In another embodiment of the invention, the protective cover and / or sleeve according to the invention may preferably be stationary relative to the axis of rotation. This means that the protective cover and / or sleeve may not rotate with the axis of rotation, and in particular, the protective cover and / or sleeve may not rotate at all.

[0108] In another embodiment of the invention, the sleeve may be a sealing element, preferably a spherical sleeve.

[0109] In embodiments of the present invention, the sleeve may be a seal, preferably a spherical sleeve or a sliding bearing.

[0110] The sleeve according to the invention can preferably be provided as a one-piece material.

[0111] The circular opening can preferably extend from the front end of the circle through the sleeve to the rear end of the circle.

[0112] In an embodiment of the present invention, the diameter of the circular front end portion of the sleeve may be smaller than the diameter of the circular rear end portion.

[0113] In embodiments of the present invention, the diameter of the front end of the circle may be at least 10% smaller than the diameter of the rear end of the circle; for example, at least 25% smaller; for example, at least 30% smaller; for example, at least 40% smaller; for example, at least 45% smaller; for example, at least 50% smaller; for example, at least 55% smaller; for example, at least 60% smaller; for example, at least 70% smaller; for example, at least 80% smaller; for example, in the range of 10-80% smaller; for example, in the range of 25-70% smaller; for example, in the range of 40-60% smaller; for example, in the range of 45-55% smaller.

[0114] The front end of the circle may have a circular opening, and the rear end of the circle may have a circular opening, wherein the diameter of the circular opening at the front end may be smaller than the diameter of the circular opening at the rear end.

[0115] In an embodiment of the present invention, a lip-shaped seal is provided at the front circular opening.

[0116] The lip seal according to the invention can preferably provide elastic contact with the rotating shaft.

[0117] Lip seals can have a negative curvature or a neutral curvature configuration relative to the sleeve.

[0118] Preferably, the negative curvature or neutral curvature construction forms a lip seal from the end of the spherical structure, and when inserted into the circular opening, the lip seal is parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the axis.

[0119] In embodiments of the present invention, the sleeve may include an organic compound.

[0120] In another embodiment of the invention, the organic compound may include an inert organic compound.

[0121] The organic compound can be a polymer material. Preferably, the polymer material comprises an olefin compound. The olefin compound can be formed like a fibrous compound. Preferably, the olefin compound can comprise polypropylene, polyethylene, or a combination of polypropylene and polyethylene.

[0122] Preferably, the sleeve contains at least 10% organic compound; for example, at least 20% organic compound; for example, at least 30% organic compound; for example, at least 40% organic compound; for example, at least 50% organic compound; for example, at least 75% organic compound; for example, at least 80% organic compound; for example, at least 90% organic compound; for example, at least 95% organic compound.

[0123] The sleeve contains less than 30% organic material; less than 20% organic material; less than 10% organic material; less than 5% organic material; less than 3% organic material; less than 1% organic material.

[0124] Inorganic materials can include metals such as steel, iron, silicates, or ceramics.

[0125] In embodiments of the present invention, the Young's modulus (or tensile modulus) of the sleeve can be in the range of 1000-1500 GPa; for example, in the range of 1050-1400 GPa; for example, in the range of 1100-1200 GPa; for example, in the range of 1130-1170 GPa; for example, in the range of 1140-1160 GPa.

[0126] If the Young's modulus (or tensile modulus) becomes too low, for example below 1000 GPa, it may be difficult to maintain the shape of the sleeve. If the Young's modulus (or tensile modulus) becomes too high, for example above 1500 GPa, the sleeve may lose its required elasticity.

[0127] Young's modulus (or tensile modulus) may be related to a material's ability to withstand changes in length when stretched or compressed longitudinally.

[0128] In embodiments of the present invention, the sleeve may include a size less than 20 × 10 -5 K -1 The coefficient of thermal expansion; the sleeve may include, for example, 15 × 10 -5 K -1 or a coefficient of thermal expansion below; for example, below 13 × 10⁻⁶. -5 K -1 The sleeve may include, for example, 11×10 -5 K -1 or the following coefficients of thermal expansion; for example, below 10 × 10 -5 K -1 The sleeve may include, for example, 8×10 -5 K -1 or the following coefficient of thermal expansion; for example, below 6 × 10⁻⁶. -5 K -1 The sleeve may include, for example, 2×10 -5 K -1 -20×10 -5 K -1 The coefficient of thermal expansion in the range of 5 × 10⁻⁶; for example, in the range of 5 × 10⁻⁶. -5 K -1 -18×10 -5 K -1 Within the range; the sleeve may include, for example, 5×10 -5 K -1 -15×10 -5 K -1 The coefficient of thermal expansion in the range of 10 × 10⁻⁶; for example, in the range of 10 × 10⁻⁶. -5 K-1 -12×10 -5 K -1 Within the range.

[0129] The coefficient of thermal expansion describes how the dimensions of an object change with temperature. Specifically, the coefficient of thermal expansion measures the fraction of size change per degree of temperature change at constant pressure; therefore, a lower coefficient indicates a smaller tendency for size change.

[0130] In this embodiment, the sleeve has a hygroscopicity of less than 1% (w / w); for example, less than 0.9%.

[0131] Moisture absorption (w / w); for example, less than 0.8% (w / w); for example, less than 0.7% (w / w); for example, less than 0.6% (w / w); for example, less than 0.5% (w / w); for example, less than 0.4% (w / w); for example, less than 0.3% (w / w); for example, less than 0.2% (w / w); for example, less than 0.1% (w / w).

[0132] The hygroscopicity used in this paper refers to the sleeve's ability to absorb moisture from its environment. The absorbed moisture has been shown to act as a plasticizer, thereby lowering the glass transition temperature and strength of the plastic—a reversible effect.

[0133] In embodiments of the invention, the sleeve 40 includes a moisture absorption rate in the range of 0.01-1% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.02-0.9% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.03-0.8% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.04-0.7% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.05-0.6% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.06-0.5% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.07-0.4% (w / w); for example, in the range of 0.08-0.3%.

[0134] Moisture absorption in the range of (w / w); for example, less than 0.09-0.2% (w / w); for example, about 0.1% (w / w).

[0135] In another embodiment of the invention, the sleeve includes at least 1% of the maximum strain; for example, at least 2% of the maximum strain; for example, at least 3% of the maximum strain; for example, at least 4% of the maximum strain; for example, at least 5% of the maximum strain.

[0136] The maximum strain of the sleeve may be related to the maximum stress necessary to provide permanent or irreversible deformation of the sleeve.

[0137] In embodiments of the invention, when subjected to a constant stress at 20°C resulting in a 2% strain for up to 6 hours, the sleeve can provide up to 50% elongation relative to the 2% strain, for example, up to 30% elongation; for example, up to 25% elongation; for example, up to 20% elongation. Preferably, the sleeve can recover from the applied stress to an elongation of up to 1% relative to the 2% strain within 7 days, for example, up to 0.75% elongation; for example, up to 0.5% elongation; for example, up to 0.25% elongation.

[0138] Properly adjusting the maximum stress can significantly affect and improve the durability of the sleeve.

[0139] In embodiments of the invention, the sleeve may include a coefficient of friction in the range of 0.005-0.4 (determined for steel), for example, a coefficient of friction in the range of 0.01-0.3 (determined for steel); for example, a coefficient of friction in the range of 0.05-0.25; for example, a coefficient of friction in the range of 0.075-0.2; for example, a coefficient of friction in the range of 0.09-0.19.

[0140] Preferably, the sleeve has a coefficient of friction (determined for steel) of less than 0.4; for example less than 0.3; for example less than 0.25; for example less than 0.2; for example less than 0.19.

[0141] In the context of this invention, the term "coefficient of friction" depends on the material that may generate friction. Preferably, the "coefficient of friction" according to the invention can be determined for steel.

[0142] The coefficient of friction can be defined by the friction between the sleeve and the shaft, preferably a steel shaft, when inserted into the circular opening. The coefficient of friction can also be a ratio defining the force that resists the movement of one body relative to another body in contact with it. This ratio may depend on material properties and may have a value between 0 and 1.

[0143] In embodiments of the present invention, the sleeve may be a sleeve. Preferably, the sleeve may be a self-supporting sleeve.

[0144] In the context of this invention, the term "self-supporting" refers to a sleeve that is not secured or held in place by an external device. Therefore, in embodiments of this invention, the sleeve does not include external devices such as belts or metal strips. Thus, the sleeve can be a self-supporting ball seal or a sliding bearing.

[0145] In embodiments of the invention, the sleeve can provide a seal toward the shaft when the shaft can be inserted into it. Furthermore, the sleeve can provide a seal toward the flat cover.

[0146] In an embodiment of the present invention, the bearing includes a spherical outer surface of the outer ring.

[0147] The radius of the spherical outer surface of the bearing outer ring may be the same as or substantially the same as the radius of the spherical structure of the sleeve and / or the shroud according to the invention.

[0148] In this document, the term "substantially identical" refers to a deviation of 10% or less, such as 5% or less, 2% or less; or less than 1%.

[0149] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing (when mounted in a bearing housing) includes a spherical outer surface of the outer ring. Preferably, the spherical structure of the outer surface of the bearing outer ring can improve the contact between the bearing and the shroud in a spherical or partially spherical configuration.

[0150] In another embodiment of the invention, the cover rests on the bearing, and the cover and the bearing together can form a spherical sphere or a spherical hemisphere having a common center.

[0151] In some embodiments, the bearing housing can be described as a bearing mounted within a bearing housing body. The description of other embodiments of the invention provides for cases where the bearing is not mounted within a bearing housing body, and considers whether the bearing is mounted within a bearing housing body, or how it can be constructed if the bearing is subsequently mounted within a bearing housing body.

[0152] If the bearing housing body does not (directly) describe the combination of the bearing housing body and the bearing mounted in the bearing housing body, the bearing can then be subsequently mounted in the bearing housing body. The mounting of the bearing in the bearing housing body can be performed at any time after obtaining the bearing housing and after the bearing housing is attached to the base.

[0153] In embodiments of the present invention, the bearing housing according to the present invention may include a bearing installed in the bearing housing body.

[0154] The bearing installed in the bearing housing can be a ball bearing, a ceramic bearing, a sliding bearing, or a roller bearing.

[0155] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing according to the invention may include a bearing that can be installed in the bearing housing body and that is immovable or substantially immovable relative to the housing.

[0156] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing (when mounted in the bearing housing body) and / or the protective cover may be movable to contact the bearing housing body.

[0157] In embodiments of the present invention, the protective cover may be a spherical seal.

[0158] In another embodiment of the invention, the shield and / or sleeve do not include a separate seal, such as an O-ring, between the shield and / or sleeve and the shaft.

[0159] The protective cover and / or sleeve according to the invention may include an anti-rotation device. An anti-rotation device according to the invention may be provided to ensure that the spherical seal of the protective cover and / or sleeve does not rotate with the rotation of the shaft when inserted into the bearing housing.

[0160] In embodiments of the invention, the protective cover and / or sleeve according to the invention may include an anti-rotation device. In another embodiment of the invention, the anti-rotation device ensures that the protective cover and / or sleeve do not rotate with the rotation of the shaft, but instead allows the bearing and protective cover and / or sleeve according to the invention to perform angular movement.

[0161] Anti-rotation devices can fix or substantially fix the rotation of the cover and / or sleeve relative to the removable flat cover, bearing housing body and / or bearing housing cover.

[0162] In an embodiment of the present invention, the anti-rotation device includes a complementary combination of a recess and a protrusion.

[0163] The recess may appear in one of the following:

[0164] - Shield and / or sleeve; or

[0165] – Removable flat cover and / or bearing housing cover; and

[0166] The protrusion may appear in one of the following:

[0167] - Shield and / or sleeve; or

[0168] - Removable flat cover and / or bearing housing cover.

[0169] The bearing (when mounted in the bearing housing body) and / or the cover can be moved to contact a removable flat cover.

[0170] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing (when mounted in the bearing housing body) is movable to contact the bearing housing body. The protective cover is movable to contact the bearing housing body. Preferably, both the bearing and the protective cover are movable to contact the bearing housing body.

[0171] In another embodiment of the invention, the shield may be immovable or substantially immovable relative to the shaft when inserted into the bearing housing, and / or the shield may be immovable or substantially immovable relative to the shaft when inserted into the bearing via the shaft insertion portion.

[0172] In the context of this invention, the terms "shaft" and "rotating shaft" are used interchangeably and refer to a shaft that is inserted into or will be inserted into a bearing housing and bearing via a shaft insertion portion.

[0173] In embodiments of the present invention, the protective cover may include a sliding bearing. Preferably, the sliding bearing of the protective cover is rotatable toward the shaft when inserted into the bearing housing via the shaft insertion portion and inserted into the bearing.

[0174] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing according to the invention may include a bearing that can be mounted in the bearing housing body, and the bearing may be immovable relative to the shaft when the shaft is inserted into the bearing housing. Preferably, the shaft is fixed to the bearing when the shaft is inserted into the bearing housing through the shaft insertion portion.

[0175] The term "when the shaft is inserted into the bearing housing" may refer to the structure of a bearing housing without the bearing installed, but the bearing housing will be the same when the gear can be installed in the bearing housing body.

[0176] In embodiments of the present invention, the protective cover may include a seal between the bearing housing body and the protective cover.

[0177] The cover may include a first circular opening facing the outside of the bearing housing. The first circular opening may preferably contact the shaft when the bearing housing is inserted through the shaft insertion portion and the bearing is inserted.

[0178] The shield may include the radius of a first circular opening that can tightly surround the shaft when the bearing housing is inserted through the shaft insertion part and the bearing is inserted.

[0179] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first circular opening of the protective cover may be provided with a sealing element.

[0180] The inventors of this invention unexpectedly discovered that by constructing a bearing housing with a spherical outer surface and a shroud resting on a bearing having an outer spherical outer surface, increased angular movement can be provided for the shroud (and / or the bearing mounted in the bearing housing body and / or the shaft inserted into the bearing housing body and the bearing).

[0181] This construction of the bearing housing according to the invention can result in less stress on the bearing and / or avoid undesirable deformation of the seals. This significantly improves the water resistance of the bearing housing and the durability of the bearing, and can significantly reduce bearing maintenance and eliminate the need for lubrication.

[0182] Therefore, in embodiments of the present invention, the shield and / or the shield and bearing are capable of angular movement.

[0183] Angular motion can be motion around a central portion, such as the central portion of a spherical shield.

[0184] In an embodiment of the present invention, the central portion of the shield may be the central portion of a sphere, and the shield forms a specific part from the sphere.

[0185] Angular motion can preferably be motion about the centerline of the cone. The centerline of the cone can extend from the center of the sphere, which can be partially formed by a combination of a shield when resting on the bearing and a axial direction in which it leaves the bearing housing body through the shaft insertion.

[0186] In addition to the angular motion of the shaft when it is inserted into the bearing housing, the shaft can also rotate. It can rotate about the longitudinal direction of the shaft, that is, about the center line of the shaft.

[0187] Existing bearing housings allow for small angular movements or minor misalignments relative to the shaft in the bearing housing. However, to maintain the waterproof and hygienic structure of the bearing housing, existing bearing housings can tolerate a maximum angular movement or approximately 1.5 degrees of misalignment without compromising sealing performance or causing leakage that would allow water to enter the bearing and increase the risk of dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergen deposition or buildup within the bearing housing. This limitation on misalignment may be due to the structure of the bearing housing and / or the stationary or fixed position of the bearing within the housing.

[0188] Misalignment of the shaft's angular movement when it is inserted into the bearing housing may be caused by angular misalignment and / or parallel misalignment of the connected bearing housings.

[0189] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of more than 1.5 degrees without impairing the sealing performance; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 1.75 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 2 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 2.5 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 3 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 3.5 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 4 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 4.5 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 5 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 6 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield and bearing can perform an angular movement of, for example, 7 degrees or greater; the shield and / or the shield... The housing and / or the housing and bearing are capable of angular movements of, for example, 8 degrees or greater; the housing and / or the housing and bearing are capable of angular movements of, for example, 9 degrees or greater; the housing and / or the housing and bearing are capable of angular movements of, for example, 10 degrees or greater; the housing and / or the housing and bearing are capable of angular movements of, for example, within the range of 1.75-20 degrees; the housing and / or the housing and bearing are capable of angular movements of, for example, within the range of 2-18 degrees; the housing and / or the housing and bearing are capable of angular movements of, for example, within the range of 3-17 degrees. The angular motion within the enclosure; the enclosure and / or the enclosure and bearing are capable of angular motion in, for example, the range of 4-16 degrees; the enclosure and / or the enclosure and bearing are capable of angular motion in, for example, the range of 5-15 degrees; the enclosure and / or the enclosure and bearing are capable of angular motion in, for example, the range of 6-14 degrees; the enclosure and / or the enclosure and bearing are capable of angular motion in, for example, the range of 7-13 degrees; the enclosure and / or the enclosure and bearing are capable of angular motion in, for example, the range of 8-12 degrees.

[0190] In the context of this invention, the term "sealing performance" refers to the bearing housing's ability to remain waterproof and prevent water from entering the bearing housing and to prevent dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens from entering and proliferating within the bearing. Maintaining sealing performance can also result in less stress on the bearing and / or prevent undesirable deformation of the seal between the bearing housing body and the shroud and / or the seal disposed at the first circular opening (between the shroud and the shaft, when the bearing housing body is inserted). In this way, the bearing housing can remain waterproof and the bearing's durability can be significantly improved, and / or maintenance can be significantly reduced.

[0191] If the bearing housing leaks and water enters, and / or if dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens enter the bearing housing, additional lubrication is required to prevent water ingress. Thorough, large-scale cleaning is also necessary to prevent the deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens in the bearing housing, potentially significantly increasing the risk of environmental contamination. Furthermore, in addition to treating water seeping into the bearing housing with lubrication to prevent water ingress, lubrication may also cause additional bearing maintenance and wear, in addition to increasing the risk of deposits or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material, or allergens in the bearing housing. This results in increased production line downtime and higher material and labor costs.

[0192] In an embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body and a removable bearing housing cover attached to the fixed bearing housing body. Preferably, the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body connected to the two or more bearing housing legs via the arm, and a removable bearing housing cover mounted on the fixed bearing housing body.

[0193] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body and a removable flat cover that contacts the protective cover and includes a shaft insertion portion. Preferably, the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body connected to the two or more bearing housing legs via the arm, and a removable flat cover that contacts the protective cover and includes the shaft insertion portion.

[0194] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body and a removable bearing housing cover attached to the fixed bearing housing body, wherein the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body and a removable flat cover that contacts the guard and includes a shaft insertion portion. Preferably, the bearing housing body includes a fixed bearing housing body connected to the two or more bearing housing legs via the arm, a removable bearing housing cover attached to the fixed bearing housing body, and a removable flat cover that contacts the guard and includes a shaft insertion portion.

[0195] The removable flat cover can be attached to the fixed bearing housing body, located on the opposite side of the fixed bearing housing body relative to the removable bearing housing cover.

[0196] In embodiments of the invention, the bearing housing body may include a fixed bearing housing body, a removable bearing housing cover, and a removable flat cover, wherein the removable flat cover includes a shaft insertion portion for inserting a shaft, and wherein the removable bearing housing cover includes a shaft insertion portion for inserting a shaft. This structure of the bearing housing according to the invention can be provided for bearing housings in which a shaft passes through the bearing housing, thus requiring two shaft insertion portions, one for inserting the shaft into the bearing housing and one for removing the shaft from the bearing housing.

[0197] The circular structure on the outer surface of the shroud can contact a removable flat cover attached to a fixed bearing housing body. When the bearing is installed in the bearing housing body, the removable flat cover presses the shroud against the bearing. The removable flat cover can contact the shroud and a seal is provided between the removable flat cover and the shroud. The removable flat cover may also include a seal located between the removable flat cover and the fixed bearing housing body. Preferably, the seal between the removable flat cover and the fixed bearing housing body may have a profile adapted to the surfaces of the removable flat cover and the fixed bearing housing body, such that the profile substantially ensures surface continuity between the fixed bearing housing body and the removable flat cover.

[0198] When the bearing housing can be provided with a fixed bearing housing body and a flat cover, a seal can be provided between the fixed bearing housing body and the flat cover.

[0199] When the bearing housing can be provided with a fixed bearing housing body and a removable bearing housing cover, a seal can be provided between the fixed bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover. Preferably, the seal between the fixed bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover can be provided with a contour adapted to the surfaces of the fixed bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover, so that the contour substantially ensures the surface continuity of the fixed bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover.

[0200] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bearing can be installed within a bearing housing. The bearing installed within the bearing housing can be a ball bearing; a ceramic bearing; a sliding bearing; or a roller bearing.

[0201] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bearing housing may be a sanitary bearing housing.

[0202] In embodiments of the present invention, the bearing housing body may include at least one attachment device for attaching the bearing housing to the base. Preferably, the bearing housing body may include at least two attachment devices for attaching the bearing housing to the base.

[0203] Preferably, at least one, and preferably at least two, attachment devices for attaching the bearing housing to the base can be one or more bearing housing legs for attaching the bearing housing to the base, preferably two or more bearing housing legs. Each of the one or more, preferably two or more, bearing housing legs can extend from the bearing housing body via an arm.

[0204] In addition to the unique structure of the bearing housing of the present invention solving the misalignment problem of the corresponding bearing housing by allowing greater angular movement, the inventors of the present invention have also discovered that by simplifying and modifying the bearing housing, cleaning in, on and around the bearing housing can be easier, and the incidence of deposits or accumulations of dirt, grime, microbial material or allergens in or around the bearing housing can be significantly reduced or even avoided, without compromising the strength, robustness or stability of the bearing housing.

[0205] Therefore, a preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a bearing housing comprising a bearing housing body for receiving a rotating shaft, and one or more, preferably two or more, bearing housing legs for attaching the bearing housing to a base, each of the one or more, preferably two or more, bearing housing legs extending from the bearing housing body via an arm.

[0206] In the context of this invention, the term "attachment" refers to securing one element to another. In embodiments of this invention, the term "attaching a bearing housing to a base" refers to securing a bearing housing to a base, thereby fixing or substantially fixing it.

[0207] Depending on the application and / or location of the bearing housing, the bearing housing can be mounted to the base in a vertical or horizontal position.

[0208] One of the distinctive features of the bearing housing according to the invention is that one or more bearing housing legs protrude close to the bearing housing body by introducing an arm between each of one or more bearing housing legs and the bearing housing body. In this context, the term "extends from" refers to one or more bearing housing legs extending from the bearing housing body. Preferably, one or more bearing housing legs extend or protrude from the bearing housing and are separated by the arm.

[0209] In one embodiment of the invention, the arm can be used to extend the bearing housing leg from the bearing housing body and between one or more bearing housing legs. If three or more, or four or more, bearing housing legs are interconnected, one or more bearing housing legs can be attached to the bearing housing body via another bearing housing leg.

[0210] In this document, the term "arm" refers to a piece of material used to create or maintain space between two elements, particularly between each of one or more, preferably two or more, bearing housing legs and the bearing housing body and / or between the individual bearing housing legs. Arms according to the invention can be configured to improve and / or facilitate cleaning within, on, or around the bearing housing, while simultaneously providing strength and stability to the bearing housing.

[0211] In one embodiment of the invention, the arm may be made of the same material as that used in one or more bearing housing legs and / or bearing housing body.

[0212] In another embodiment of the invention, the arm may be made of a material different from the material used in one or more bearing housing legs and / or bearing housing body.

[0213] In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing includes one or more bearing housing legs, such as two or more bearing housing legs, such as three or more bearing housing legs, such as four or more bearing housing legs, such as five or more bearing housing legs, such as six or more bearing housing legs, such as eight or more bearing housing legs, each bearing housing leg extending from the bearing housing body by an arm.

[0214] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing includes two to four bearing housing legs, each bearing housing leg extending from the bearing housing body via an arm.

[0215] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing support may include a flange.

[0216] The bearing housing foot or flange may be fitted with an attachment device. The attachment device may include a nut and a bolt, wherein the bolt passes through the bearing housing foot or flange, preferably along a longitudinal direction relating to the orientation of the bearing housing foot or flange, and through the base.

[0217] In one embodiment of the invention, each of one or more bearing housing legs may include an attachment means for attaching the bearing housing to the base.

[0218] In another embodiment of the invention, the base may be part of a machine, equipment, facility, etc.

[0219] The inventors of this invention unexpectedly discovered that by reducing the amount of material in contact with the base, areas or points where dirt, grime, microbial material, and / or other contaminants can hide and accumulate can be significantly reduced, and / or by reconstructing the bearing housing, making it easier to clean the inside, on, and around the bearing housing using easy access for cleaning from all angles of the bearing housing. This improved construction unexpectedly makes rinsing and cleaning more efficient and / or reliable, resulting in the aforementioned reductions.

[0220] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more bearing housing legs may be the only part of the bearing housing that contacts the base.

[0221] In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing body and / or arm do not contact the base.

[0222] In this case, one or more bearing housing legs may be the only part of the bearing housing that contacts the base, and / or the bearing housing body and / or arm do not contact the base, leaving an open space between the uncontacted parts of the bearing housing (such as the bearing housing body and / or arm) and the base. Preferably, the open space between the bearing housing body and the base and / or the open space between the arm and the base is greater than 1 mm, for example, greater than 3 mm, greater than 5 mm, for example, greater than 1 cm, for example, greater than 1.5 mm, for example, greater than 2.5 mm, for example, in the range of 0.1-5 cm; in the range of 0.2-3 cm; in the range of 0.3-3 cm; in the range of 0.5-2.75 cm; in the range of 0.75-2.54 cm.

[0223] In embodiments of the present invention, the bearing housing body may include at least two contact points with the base. These contact points are preferably visual contact points. Preferably, the contact points between the bearing housing and the base may be provided by at least two legs.

[0224] In one embodiment of the invention, the length of one or more bearing housing legs may be substantially longitudinal in the direction of the opening for receiving the rotating shaft.

[0225] In another embodiment of the invention, the length of one or more bearing housing legs may be in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the base on which the bearing housing can be mounted.

[0226] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more bearing housing legs may be further extended to create additional distance between the bearing housing body and the base. This further extension of the bearing housing legs may be provided by introducing leg spacers into each of the one or more bearing housing legs until the desired length is reached. Preferably, a seal may be placed between each leg spacer and each of the one or more bearing housing legs. Preferably, the seal is placed between each leg spacer and the base.

[0227] In embodiments of the invention, one or more bearing housing legs may extend further to create additional distance between the bearing housing body and the base. Further extension of the one or more bearing housing legs can be provided by introducing leg spacers into each of the one or more bearing housing legs until the desired length is reached. Preferably, a seal may be placed between each leg spacer and each of the one or more bearing housing legs. Preferably, a seal may be placed between each leg spacer and the base.

[0228] Misalignment occurs between the corresponding bearing housings. Therefore, terms such as “generally vertical” and / or “generally longitudinal” for the bearing housing may have a deviation of 0-20°, but are still considered to be within the range covered in the generally longitudinal direction or the generally vertical direction without compromising health, strength, or stability; such deviations are, for example, between 2° and 17°, for example, between 3° and 15°, for example, between 4° and 12°, for example, between 5° and 11°, for example, between 6° and 10°.

[0229] The inventors of this invention have discovered that by reducing the amount of material used in constructing the bearing housing, it is easier and significantly more effective and / or more reliable to clean around the bearing housing and from various angles around the bearing housing, thereby resulting in limiting or even avoiding the deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material or allergens on, inside or around the bearing housing, which is advantageous.

[0230] The inventors of this invention have surprisingly discovered that the amount of material used, particularly in the portion used to construct the bearing housing body and the portion between two or more bearing housing legs, can be reduced. The inventors have also surprisingly discovered that this portion of the bearing housing (the portion between the bearing housing body and each of the two or more bearing housing legs) can be replaced with the arm according to the invention without compromising the strength, stiffness, or stability of the bearing housing.

[0231] The arm according to the invention may have:

[0232] - Length (l), which determines how far each of one or more bearing housing legs extends from the bearing housing body. Preferably, each arm may have the same length (l);

[0233] - Height (h), which is determined in the direction from the bearing housing to the base. Preferably, each arm may have the same height (h);

[0234] - Width (w), which is defined in a direction perpendicular to the direction from the bearing housing to the base.

[0235] Preferably, each arm can have the same height (h).

[0236] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more bearing housing legs may have a length (determined from the top to the base of the bearing leg) greater than the height of the arm.

[0237] By configuring the bearing housing such that the length of one or more bearing housing legs can be greater than the height of the arm, an open space can be provided between the arm and the base. This open space can improve and simplify cleaning inside, on, and around the bearing housing, and can also make cleaning easier from various angles of the bearing housing, the bearing housing body, the fixed bearing housing body, and / or one or more bearing housing legs.

[0238] In embodiments of the invention, the arm may be positioned relative to the base and / or one or more bearing housing legs to provide an open space between the arm and the base.

[0239] Preferably, the open space between the arm and the base is greater than 1 mm, for example greater than 3 mm, for example greater than 5 mm, for example greater than 1 cm, for example greater than 1.5 mm, for example greater than 2.5 mm; for example, in the range of 0.1-5 cm; for example, in the range of 0.2-3 cm; for example, in the range of 0.3-3 cm; for example, in the range of 0.5-2.75 cm; for example, in the range of 0.75-2.54 cm.

[0240] In embodiments of the present invention, the width of one or more bearing housing legs may be equal to or less than the width of two or more bearing housing legs.

[0241] Compared to the prior art construction of bearing housings, the construction of the bearing housing according to the present invention may include removing material around two or more bearing housing legs and / or removing material between two or more bearing housing legs and the bearing housing body, and the individual components (e.g., two or more bearing housing legs; bearing housing body; and / or arms) may be easily distinguishable.

[0242] In one embodiment of the invention, the arm can be easily distinguished from one or more bearing housing legs.

[0243] In another embodiment of the invention, the arm can be easily separated from the bearing housing body.

[0244] In another embodiment of the invention, two or more bearing housing legs can be easily distinguished from the bearing housing body.

[0245] In this document, the term "easily distinguishable" refers to obvious differences between components of a bearing housing, such as differences between the bearing housing body and one or more bearing housing legs; differences between one or more bearing housing legs and arms; and / or differences between the bearing housing body and arms. In embodiments of the invention, the differences may be visual differences.

[0246] In one embodiment of the invention, the fixed bearing housing body, arm and one or more bearing housing legs can be manufactured, for example by molding, preferably molded into a single piece.

[0247] As described above, the structure, design, and / or manufacture of the arm can contribute to improved cleaning, and the arm according to the invention can improve drainage, for example, by being able to self-drain liquids, such as aqueous suspensions, like aqueous cleaning solutions. By making cleaning easier and more efficient, and by introducing easily drainable or even self-draining surfaces in the bearing housing and particularly the arm, the incidence and / or risk of the hiding or accumulation of dirt, microbial material, or other contaminating materials can be reduced or even avoided.

[0248] In one embodiment of the invention, the arm can be formed as a polyhedron, such as a triangular prism, a tetraangular prism, a pentagonal prism, or a hexagonal prism. Preferably, the arm can be formed as a triangular prism.

[0249] In another embodiment of the invention, the polyhedron may be a truncated cone. In the context of the invention, the term "truncated cone" refers to a structure that is topologically identical to a prism, having trapezoidal lateral faces and top and bottom polygons of varying sizes.

[0250] In one embodiment of the invention, the arm includes a first curved end aligned with the radius of the bearing housing body and a second curved end aligned with the radius of the bearing housing support. Preferably, the radius of the first curved end is larger than the radius of the second curved end.

[0251] In one embodiment of the invention, the term "bent end" refers to an end that is aligned and adapted to the surface to which the end is attached.

[0252] A triangular prism may comprise three rectangular sections and two triangular ends, preferably with the two triangular ends having different dimensions. In one embodiment of the invention, the radius of the triangular end connected to the bearing housing is greater than the radius of the triangular end connected to one of two or more bearing housing legs.

[0253] In one embodiment of the invention, the first end of the two triangular ends may be attached to the bearing housing body, and the second end of the two triangular portions may be attached to one of two or more bearing housing legs.

[0254] The arms can take different forms depending on the shape of the polyhedron, such as a triangular prism, at least one edge of which can be straight, concave or convex.

[0255] At least one edge of a polyhedron, such as the edge of a triangular prism, may be concave, and at least one segment of the edge of the triangular prism may be convex.

[0256] In one embodiment of the invention, the tip of the polyhedron, such as the tip of a triangular prism, may point towards the base.

[0257] In one embodiment of the invention, the term "tip of a polyhedron" refers to an edge of a polyhedron, such as an edge of a triangular prism. Preferably, the edge of the polyhedron, such as an edge of a triangular prism, points towards the base, and more preferably directly towards the base.

[0258] With the aforementioned structure of the bearing housing, a limited amount of bearing housing contact with the base and / or surrounding the bearing housing can provide a large open space, thereby allowing for easier and more efficient and / or more reliable cleaning, thus limiting or even preventing the deposition or accumulation of dirt, grime, microbial material or allergens on, inside or around the bearing housing.

[0259] To improve the maintenance of the bearing housing, the bearings within the bearing housing during use, and / or to facilitate the installation of bearings and / or shafts in the bearing housing, the bearing housing body can be provided from different components that can be joined together to form the bearing housing body.

[0260] In one embodiment of the invention, the seal / sealing part according to the invention may preferably be configured to have a profile adapted to the structure of the connected surface or the connected element, thereby substantially ensuring a continuous or substantially continuous surface at the joint between the connected surfaces or elements, such as the joint between a fixed bearing housing body and a removable bearing housing cover, and / or the joint between two or more bearing housing legs and the base, and / or the joint between a fixed bearing housing body and a flat cover, the joint between a bearing seat and a shield, and / or the continuous or substantially continuous surface of a seal disposed on a first circular opening (in contact with the shaft when inserted into the bearing housing body).

[0261] By means of the seal / sealing part according to the invention, dirt, dust, microbial materials (e.g., bacteria or fungi) or other contaminants such as allergens can be prevented or prevented from entering the gaps or joints between connecting surfaces or components.

[0262] The seal or sealing portion according to the invention can be made of a non-conductive material. The seal, sealing portion, or conductive material can be silicone resin. Preferably, the seal or sealing portion can be made of soft silicone resin. Preferably, the seal is blue, preferably RAL 5010, providing improved visual inspection of hygiene levels and / or cleanliness quality.

[0263] In one embodiment of the invention, each of two or more bearing housing legs may include a seal between each of the two or more bearing housing legs and the base.

[0264] The bearing housing can be made of plastic, metal, or a combination of both. The plastic material can be selected from polypropylene. Preferably, the polypropylene material can be a robust polypropylene material. The metal material can be stainless steel.

[0265] In one embodiment of the invention, all exposed surfaces of the bearing housing can have a smooth finish, thereby removing dirt, grime, microbial material (e.g., bacteria or fungi) or other contaminants such as allergens from the surface.

[0266] Preferably, when the bearing housing according to the invention is installed on a machine and / or operates under specified load conditions, in its final manufactured form, the bearing housing may be free of seams, pits, wrinkles, cracks, fissures and other defects.

[0267] Preferably, the exposed surfaces of the bearing housing according to the invention do not include knurled surfaces.

[0268] All exposed surfaces of the bearing housing according to the invention are preferably cleanable.

[0269] All exposed surfaces of the bearing housing according to the invention are preferably inspectable.

[0270] In the context of this invention, the terms "surface" and "exposed surface" are used interchangeably and refer to any surface that may come into contact with dirt, grime, microbial material (e.g., bacteria or fungi) or other contaminating material such as allergens.

[0271] In one embodiment of the invention, all exposed surfaces of the bearing housing according to the invention may be self-draining. In another embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing does not include surfaces having one or more pouches that can retain liquid.

[0272] In the context of this invention, the term "self-draining" refers to a surface that is constructed, designed and / or manufactured to allow aqueous suspensions, such as aqueous cleaning suspensions like water, to flow out of and / or leave the surface.

[0273] In a preferred embodiment, the bearing housing can be cleaned manually. During manual cleaning, the removal of dirt, grime, microbial material, or other contaminants may be affected by aqueous suspensions, such as chemical and / or water rinsing, optionally using one or a combination of brushes, non-metallic scouring pads, and scrapers. Rinsing can be performed using high-pressure or low-pressure hoses and / or with manual cleaning aids.

[0274] To limit the accumulation and / or growth of dirt, grime, microbial material or other contaminants on the exposed surfaces of the bearing housing, and to improve the future drainage of aqueous suspensions such as water from the surface, the bearing housing surface may be a smooth surface.

[0275] In one embodiment of the invention, the surface of the bearing housing may be smooth. Preferably, the smooth surface of the bearing housing allows liquid to drain from the surface, preferably self-draining.

[0276] The smoothness of the exposed surface of the bearing housing according to the present invention can be determined by the "roughness average (Ra)". The roughness average, or Ra, is the arithmetic mean of the absolute values ​​of the deviations from the surface profile within a sampling length. In the context of the present invention, the roughness (Ra) of the bearing housing surface can be determined according to the ISO 4287:1997 standard.

[0277] Preferably, the surface of the bearing housing according to the invention may include all exposed surfaces of the bearing housing.

[0278] The surface roughness of the bearing housing can be below Ra 2.0 μm; for example Ra 1.8 μm; for example Ra 1.6 μm; for example Ra 1.4 μm; for example Ra 1.2 μm; for example Ra 1.0 μm; for example Ra 0.8 μm; for example Ra 0.6 μm; for example Ra 0.4 μm.

[0279] Preferably, the bearing housing according to the invention does not include horizontal exposed surfaces, protrusions, and / or edges.

[0280] In one embodiment of the invention, all exposed surfaces, protrusions, and / or edges of the bearing housing are curved or bent.

[0281] To ensure high drainage performance, at least one of the exposed surfaces, protrusions, and / or edges of the bearing housing, preferably all of them, may have an angle and may be constructed or have a curvature relative to the horizontal plane.

[0282] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one, preferably all, of the exposed surfaces, protrusions, and / or edges of the bearing housing may have a radius of 1 mm or more to improve water runoff from at least one exposed surface, preferably all exposed surfaces, protrusions, and / or edges of the bearing housing; such as a radius of 2 mm or more; for example, a radius of 3 mm or more, for example, a radius of 3.2 mm or more; for example, a radius of 3.5 mm or more; for example, a radius of 4 mm or more, for example, a radius of 5 mm or more.

[0283] Preferably, the exposed surfaces, protrusions and / or edges of the bearing housing have radii not less than 3.2 mm; such as less than 3 mm; such as less than 2.5 mm; such as less than 1 mm; such as less than 0.8 mm.

[0284] In one embodiment of the invention, all exposed surfaces, protrusions and / or edges of the bearing housing may have angles, may be constructed or have a curvature of at least 3 degrees relative to the horizontal; for example, a curvature of 3.2 degrees or more relative to the horizontal, such as a curvature of 3.5 degrees or more relative to the horizontal; for example, a curvature of 3.75 degrees or more relative to the horizontal; for example, a curvature of 4 degrees or more relative to the horizontal, such as a curvature of 5 degrees or more relative to the horizontal.

[0285] In one embodiment of the invention, the exposed surfaces, protrusions, and / or edges of the bearing housing may be constructed, designed, and / or manufactured in accordance with national standards and / or directives, such as one or more of the following:

[0286] EN 1672-2:2005 Food processing machinery / Basic design principles / Part 2: Hygiene requirements.

[0287] ·EN ISO 14 159 2004 Safety of machinery—Hygienic requirements for the design of machinery.

[0288] • Document 13 EHEDG Guidelines on Hygienic Design of Open Process Equipment

[0289] • EHEDG Class I: The hygienic design standard assessment report concludes that the design meets the Class I hygienic appliance standard, is suitable for components located in non-food areas, and can be easily cleaned without disassembly.

[0290] • 3-A hygiene standard for machine leveling feet and supports.

[0291] • USDA Guidelines for the Hygienic Design and Manufacturing of Dairy Processing Equipment, June 2001.

[0292] and / or other international standards, such as one or more of the following:

[0293] • 852 / 2004 concerning food hygiene.

[0294] • Specific hygiene rules 853 / 2004 for animal-derived foods.

[0295] • Specific rules for the official control and management of animal-derived products intended for human consumption, 854 / 2004.

[0296] • Materials and articles that come into contact with food 1935 / 2004.

[0297] The bearing housing according to the invention may be provided with a bearing. The bearing according to the invention may be a mechanical element that restricts relative motion to only the desired motion and reduces friction between moving parts, such as a shaft, and non-moving parts, such as the bearing housing. Preferably, the bearing housing may comprise a bearing adapted to receive a rotating shaft.

[0298] In one embodiment of the present invention, the bearing may be a ceramic bearing or a stainless steel bearing. Preferably, the bearing may be a ceramic bearing.

[0299] In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing may be a grease-free and / or lubricant-free bearing. The construction, design, and manufacture of the bearing housing, along with the reduced number of joints and elements protected by seals, ensure a waterproof bearing housing, preferably with long-term waterproof performance according to the invention.

[0300] In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing is substantially composed of a bearing housing body having two or more bearing housing legs (preferably between two and four), the bearing housing legs extending from the bearing housing body by: arms; joints (and seals) between the bearing housing body and a removable flat cover; joints (and seals) between the bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover; joints (and seals) between each bearing housing leg of the bearing housing body and a base; and joints (and seals) between each bearing housing leg of the bearing housing body and each bolt for attaching the bearing housing to the base.

[0301] Preferably, the bearing housing according to the invention comprises (or is substantially made of) the following components:

[0302] -Bearing housing body;

[0303] - One or more bearing housing legs extending from the bearing housing body via an arm.

[0304] - The joint (and seal) between the removable flat cover and the bearing housing body and the removable flat cover;

[0305] - The removable bearing housing cover and the joint (and seal) between the bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover;

[0306] - The joint (and seal) between each bearing housing leg and the base of the bearing housing body;

[0307] -and each bearing housing support leg of the bearing housing body and for attaching the bearing housing to the base.

[0308] The joints (and seals) between each bolt,

[0309] The component may be configured with a profile adapted to the surface of the component, thereby substantially ensuring the continuous surface of the components of the bearing housing.

[0310] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bearing housing may be a sanitary bearing housing.

[0311] In the context of this invention, the term "hygienic bearing housing" refers to a bearing housing adapted to reduce or prevent dirt, grime, microbial material or other contaminants from entering or between connecting surfaces or components, gaps, seams, pits, wrinkles, cracks or other defects.

[0312] In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing housing according to the invention may be provided with a built-in sensor. Preferably, the built-in sensor can transmit data, such as operational data or construction data, to a mobile device and / or cloud monitoring of the bearing housing.

[0313] By incorporating such a sensor into the bearing housing according to the invention, safer operation, more efficient operation, improved maintenance, and / or reduced downtime of the machine can be provided.

[0314] In one embodiment of the invention, the sensor is incorporated into a removable bearing housing cover.

[0315] In one embodiment of the invention, the sensor may be configured to monitor one or more of the following: vibration, temperature, leakage, humidity, external cleanliness, and / or location of the bearing housing.

[0316] Preferred embodiments of the present invention relate to the use of bearing housings according to the invention for environments with high hygiene and cleanliness requirements and / or environments that can withstand low (or no) deposits or accumulations of dirt, grime, microbial material and / or allergens.

[0317] Preferably, the present invention relates to the use of bearing housings according to the present invention in the food production industry, feed production industry and / or pharmaceutical industry.

[0318] A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a device comprising a bearing housing according to the present invention.

[0319] The base may be part of a machine, equipment, facility, etc. Preferably, the machine, equipment, or facility may be a conveyor belt used in the food production industry, feed production industry, and / or pharmaceutical industry.

[0320] In an embodiment of the present invention, the device may be a sanitary device.

[0321] It should be noted that the embodiments and features described in the context of one aspect of the invention are also applicable to other aspects of the invention.

Claims

1. A sleeve (40), the sleeve comprising: A circular front end portion (41); and a circular rear end portion (42); and a circular opening (49) passing through the central portion (43) of the circular front end portion (41) and the circular rear end portion (42), wherein the circular opening (49) is a shaft insertion portion for shaft insertion, and the rear end portion (42) is connected to the front end portion (41) by a spherical structure (44). - The front end portion (41) has a front end circular opening (45), and the rear end portion (42) has a rear end circular opening (46), wherein the diameter of the front end circular opening (45) is smaller than the diameter of the rear end circular opening (46), and - The circular opening (45) at the front end is provided with a lip seal (47).

2. The sleeve (40) according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve is a sealing element.

3. The sleeve (40) according to claim 2, wherein, The sleeve is a spherical seal.

4. The sleeve (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The sleeve is a sliding bearing.

5. Use of a sleeve comprising a polymer material according to any one of claims 1 to 4 as a seal and as a sliding bearing.

6. A bearing housing (1), the bearing housing comprising: The bearing housing body (2) is used to hold the bearing (3); The sleeve (4) is formed as a sleeve according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the shaft insertion portion is used to insert the shaft into the bearing housing (1), the spherical structure is formed with a spherical outer surface that is movable to contact the bearing housing body (2), and the sleeve (4) rests on the bearing (3) when it is installed in the bearing housing body (2).

7. The bearing housing (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The bearing (3) is installed inside the bearing housing body (2), and the bearing (3) includes a spherical outer surface of the outer ring.

8. The bearing housing (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The shield (4) is capable of angular movement, and / or the shield (4) and the bearing (3) are capable of angular movement.

9. The bearing housing (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The bearing housing includes the following components: -Bearing housing body; - One or more bearing housing legs extending from the bearing housing body via arms. - A removable flat cover, and a joint and seal located between the bearing housing body and the removable flat cover; - A removable bearing housing cover, and a joint and seal located between the bearing housing body and the removable bearing housing cover; - The joint and seal located between each bearing housing leg and the base of the bearing housing body; and... - The joint and seal located between each bearing housing leg of the bearing housing body and each bolt of the bolts used to attach the bearing housing to the base. The component can be configured with a profile that conforms to the surface of the component, thereby ensuring the continuous surface of the component of the bearing housing.

10. Use of the bearing housing (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the bearing housing is intended for use in an environment with high hygiene and high cleanliness requirements, and / or the bearing housing is intended for use in an environment free from deposits or accumulations of dirt, grime, microbial material and / or allergens.

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